dagosd2000 wrote:
SHOW AND TELL
If you had to vote for the inductee at the WBHOF who gathered the most attention,it was Lucia Rijker. Everywhere she went, a crowd surrounded her. Brian referred to her as intrigueing.Rick told me she was intelligent and could converse smartly on any subject. The Farrises adore her and Lucia shares a love and respect for them as well. To read Lucia's email to Rick is a confirmation.
Rick had talked to me about presenting my painting of her as part of the award ceremony. He called me to ask if I would bring my painting of her. Of course.
The directors' dinner on Friday was where Rick wanted me to present Lucia with the painting. I've given women paintings before. This gesture probably validates where I have a hard time putting the emotions and feelings of women together in a logical perspective. I know I'm off base if I have to use the word"logical"when trying to describe women. Lucia that night kept me off balance as usual.
Rick went to her table where she was still being mobbed. Photographers and fans.The curious. The ones with the ulterior motives with their gestures. Rick said something to me about what had happened at the press conference the night before. I guess Ruben Castillo made a "sexist" remark to Lucia in front of the crowd. She shot back.
"What do you think I am?Just a vagina?"
Well that comment turned on a little light inside of me. This woman is just as dangerous with her understanding of people as she is with the gloves on. Sure she's attractive. Maybe that's the way most men want her to come off as. Beauty before brawn. No parity here. You have to be a "vagina"first.
I saw a few men hold onto her as they complimented her on her award.
"I've always dreamed about you," said one fellow who didn't want to let go of her waist.
When Rick finally could get her away from the crowd at her table,I saw her searching with her eyes towards where Rick was guiding her. She was trying to comprehend rapidly of what was happening. A painting of me? "What's this all about" I saw in her eyes.
I stood up and sheepishly showed her the painting.
"This is for you,"I said. "I hope I did you justice."
Just then she started to blush and giggle.
"This is how you saw me?"
I was trying to be right on this. I told the truth.
"Yes,this is how I saw you."
Lucia looked at Rick. It was like she wanted Rick to confirm that this is the way she looked. I wanted to take a picture of her and Rick. She was still laughing and blushing.She had a hard time with her words. She seemed vulnerable. I snapped two pictures. She came over to me.
"That was sweet of you,"she said.
I gave her a kiss on the cheek.
"Thank you very much,"I said.
I couldn't think of anything else to say. I didn't want to force anything.
At the dinner the next night,she received her inductee award. Everyone swarmed around her. As she was making her acceptance speech she said that women could do anything they set out to do. If you wanted to be a professional boxer and a champion you could do it. I could here some gals in the audience shout and whistle. Lucia was really getting worked up. Something was driving her. If there was a prepared speech,the words became spontaneous.
In the lobby after the banquet I saw Rick. He said that Lucia loved the painting. He also told me that she had been through a lot. Lucia has been out of boxing for a while now,but I don't think she will ever stop fighting.
Rog . . . Thank you for this nice story. I forwarded it to Lucia.
We should all be so lucky.... 
Baby Cassius and Richard Steele... 
