I ponder often the synchronicity of people that come into and float out of my life. Some from as far back as pre-school that I am still in touch with and feel a love for that is like having a sister. Some from grade school, some from middle and high school. Friends from college and my sorority sisters and daughters... There are some that are rooted deep in my heart for so many reasons. Some that are lovely and treasured acquaintances. Some family I am still in touch with...you know where I am with this.
Twenty years ago about this time of year, I was working on a project with another consultant in an area south of me about an hour and a half. We shared similar business focus and goals and as we continued to stay connected after the project. He assisted me in my push to get my coaching certification and grow my new business a bit. David was a licensed US Coast Guard captain and an accomplished sailor with a beautiful sailboat named The Messenger. The hubs and I sailed with him a few times and I collaborated on work with David occasionally as I forged ahead in career paths. He was a valued friend and colleague.
A pivotal moment in my relationship with David was our discussion of alternative mental health therapies. He mentioned his dear friend Brenda used hypnosis to assist her patients in her therapy practice. We shared our fascination with the methods that Brenda employed and David suggested that I meet her and get to know how she practiced. He described her as "She is Santa's wife. The most stunning blue eyes and beautiful white hair. And a softness of heart that you will instantly feel like you have known her forever." He was right.
And the synchronicity continued...Brenda entered my life to be a foundation in my next twenty years...
As most of us find, David and I did not stay in touch as either of us would have liked. An email now and then, trading voicemails. A Christmas card on occasion. David was no less valued but life got so busy.
An then out of the blue I sat with my brother in a small Kosher deli that is a FAVORITE spot for eats and the person diagonal from me at the next table (small tables, tight quarters) reached across and grabbed my hand..."Sally?"
I knew that voice, that smile, that Jimmy Buffet-of-the-70s looking hair. David!
He introduced me to his girlfriend Karen and we chatted a bit then went back to our lunches. And for a time we did better at that keeping in touch thing.
And life got busy again. And last winter we exchanged a few quick messages discussing that the hubs and I really needed to come sailing with him because it had been too long.
He posted on his sailing page on Facebook a contest for everyone to weigh in on when the icebreaker would come through on the river and break up the ice signaling the start of spring. We had a 2 foot snowstorm on April 14-15 so I chose the 22nd, our wedding anniversary. I cannot remember what date it came through but when we made it past the mid-April storm it was clear spring was on its way.
And then on April 28, David chose that spring Saturday to spend the night on the boat in Lake Pepin. Nothing unusual and since he was an experienced sailor, nothing anyone would question. A friend of his snapped a picture from shore of David on deck at sunset (hope it is OK that I use it.)
And then...
The hubs and I were making dinner with the local news on in the background and the reporter was telling of an accomplished sailor lost in Lake Pepin.... "Isn't David's spot in Lake Pepin?" the hubs asked. "... the search continues for David Sheridan..." the reporter stated. My heart dropped into my stomach. How is this possible? He was the safest person on a vessel I have ever known. I had no words, this simply has to be a mistake...
But it was not.
Through the summer I watched his Facebook page for news. Friends in Pepin and neighbors continued to offer prayers and wait.
Then it was on the news recently that remains had been found and identified as David. That news no one wants to hear. But at least there is closure and he would be home. My heart hurt for his family, for Karen. My own heart was heavy.
We lost touch but you were always on the fringes of my mind. You helped me start my business and introduced me to the woman who would pull me through some terrible times and that I am now standing with in her twilight years as "appointed family."
And on this coming Saturday, 5 months to the day that your boat was found empty and it was determined that you were missing, people will gather to honor you and share stories and remember your spirit and love. I can't be there but this is my love to you David and I honor your part in my life and bless all you brought into it. My path would have been significantly different had you not been my dear friend.
So as you are honored and loved by all, I say...
Fair seas and following winds my friend. Rest easy, we have the watch.
Love,
Sally
