Memoir

Thomas Weber

I have had the privilege of knowing Marj for forty-seven years, a friendship that traces back to our initial encounter at the "1986 Seminar on China Studies for International Youth" at Chengchi University in Taiwan. An unusual encounter between a poet and a business student, yet we forged an instant and enduring bond that has greatly enriched my life.

Marj's poetry inspires me in numerous ways and her lyrical expressions of love, longing, and the human experience have found a special place in my heart. I often reminisce about the moment when Marj recited "Is it the Kingfisher" for the first time, a recitation that still opens my heart and stirs deep yearnings.

Over the years, we have cherished our friendship through exchanging letters (Marj more than me – she is an exceptional and diligent writer) and as we met in various corners of the world. I hold fond memories of being invited by Marj to the Rockefeller Foundation's enchanting Bellagio Center on the shores of Lake Como. There, she was in residence for a program alongside other captivating and inspirational artists from diverse fields. We also shared adventurous hikes in Liechtenstein, escaping thunderstorms and navigating landslides.

Throughout the decades, Marj has remained a dear friend, a source of warmth, creativity, energy, and wisdom in my life. As I look ahead to the future, I am deeply grateful for our enduring connection and eagerly anticipate the encounters and adventures that the future holds.

Thomas Weber is a founding and managing partner at LGT Capital Partners AG headquartered in Switzerland. He joined LGT Group in 1989 after finishing his PHD in business administration at the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland. Before that, he obtained an MBA in Finance from Georgia State University, USA as a Fulbright scholar. He started his studies in business administration at the University of Cologne in Germany.