I can't recall ever not knowing my dear friend Donald, and the parts of me (and all of us) he helped reveal through his friendship. He would call often, posing the invite: "When are you coming to MY house?!". He loved to go out for a coke, peanut butter cup or "mac n' mac n' cheese" as a conduit to spending quality time. He loved to sing along robustly to Johnny Cash while cruising along in the car. The lyrics regarding faith in God resonated with him as he bellowed them from the depths while pointing out peaceful clouds or boats. He loved a good cowboy narrative, and was especially fond of Bonanza!
Donald bestowed ever so vibrant and revealing new names upon us. (Noted below...) He gave many affirmations of love, invitation and acts of extreme trust throughout his life, most notably in his later years. I recall one particular moment wherein he overcame a critical challenge. Grasping my hand tightly, trusting in himself, God, his L'Arche family and the nurse who was faithfully sneaking him Reese's Cups, he triumphantly exclaimed "I DID IT!".
Though we, blessed to be Donald's friends, will miss his belly laugh and gentle affection, may we continue to carry the lessons he taught us; that true friendship is a safe harbor, comfort, motivator and revelation. Its lessons are pure, holy, transformative and lasting.
Donald, you did it!
We DO love you!
💛💛💛 always,
Your Friends (Tommy Hayes, Big, Big Pumpkin Ears, Brother Heavy, Michael Head, Big Foot, Oakish, Elmo, Your Honey, Jane-Jane, Tuna Fish, 'Lisa, Swamma, Moosehead, Bababananas, Stewart, Jimmy Bear, Joe Kim, and your Little, Little Sara)
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