People’s Group, or the YPG, and would gather about once a year either on the East Coast or the West Coast of the United States. It was in the night following a YPG seminar that Don suffered a major heart attack. This, Don, you creatively turned into an opportunity to show us how a true disciple behaves in a dramatic life threatening situation. In the midst of open heart surgery in an unfamiliar hospital at the age of 88, Don established a delightfully interactive relationship with his team of surgeons and health care providers, his determination to get back on his feet as soon as possible led him to set post surgery rehabilitation records at the hospital, and, though he was careful as always to listen to the demands of his body, we never once heard anything approaching a complaint. The whole experience gave us literally the great ‘Ah ha’ moment, and the lesson that this is how such a process could be best lived through. Simultaneous to the YPG activities were the major Beads on One String tours that Don was developing in India and Europe to which the YPG also played and continues to play a supportive role. One of the YPG seminars was focused about the theme of forgiveness, and, yet another book, titled, “The Doorbell of Forgiveness” that will be going to press in the beginning of June. (Ed: 'Doorbell' is available now.) This publication is a simple reminder to all of us, Don, that devotion to the Eternal Beloved knows no boundary of lifetimes. And, judging by the emails, plans, and other communications that continue to be exchanged among your many dear companions, it is easy to glimpse your long reach into our futures. May your inspired and tireless life of Love and Service continue always to live in our hearts and help guide us onward. As you would often say in your warm personal greeting,
Cynthia Griffin with Don Stevens (Salem, MA ~ December 2005). Photo by Richard Griffin.
Don, . . . . . . Salutations.
5