For the first couple years when I was in Boy Scouts in Clarksville, my scoutmaster was legally blind, much like that of our current governor, David Paterson. The scoutmaster, Toni as we called him, vision may have been poor, but his intellect certainly was not, and he proved to be an invaluable role model in my life.

He would lead each scout meeting, filled with hope and passion, telling quality stories and demanding much of us as scouts. He expected us to be on time, always be well dressed in our uniforms, and always be the best. Indeed, under his leadership we where the best, almost always leading our troops and packs with our discipline and our team work.

Toni was a skilled craftsman, and despite being blind, could make almost anything our troop needed in his wood shop. His sight may have been poor, but his touch was strong, and he knew how to make the most beautiful items out of wood. He proved that sight was not necessary to do great things. He could build and he could lead without his eye sight.

So many of us take our vision for granted. Yet, even those who can't see, can be great leaders that inspire us to do what is right. Toni will forever be an inspirational part of my life.