We first met Nick Howen in Tibet when, during the summer of 1987, our paths crossed many times. We particularly remember our stay at the Tenzin Hotel in Shigatse which was at that time a hive of fascinating characters, none more delightful to spend time with than that red headed Aussie. He said he was on his way to England to work for a commercial law firm. We left Tibet in early September with Nick’s contact details and promises of catching up in the future.
In early October a 15 page hand written document was delivered to our door in Kathmandu. This report detailed the demonstrations that had taken place in Lhasa in late September; the retaliation by Chinese authorities who fired into crowds of unarmed Tibetans (killing many) and the subsequent clandestine operation to assist the many wounded Tibetans too afraid to seek proper medical care. The report was impressive for its meticulous detail and scrupulous objectivity. The cover letter, urging us to get this report to the world media, was signed “Nick the bearded Aussie”.
The mix of dedication, compassion, intelligence and objectivity that has imbued Nick’s life and work shines through in that hand written report. Nick’s career as a commercial lawyer was short lived and the disadvantaged and oppressed people of the world benefitted as a result.
Lucy, despite not seeing you, the girls and Nick since our visit in 1995 we, like so many others, feel grateful to have had you all in our lives. You have always been and will remain an inspiration. Our love and thoughts are with you, Susie, Julia and Helena.
Kathy Butler
Gary McCue