Nashville or Bust

Day +170 (Well, the morning after…)

Yesterday, February 26, was Dave’s 170th day post transplant.

I could post a picture of what transplant day looked like, but I won’t. It’s more important to see what day +170 was.

Pike 27, Woodward Theatre; Photo Credit: ORU Media

This post is about these men. And friendship. And the ways we all are connected.

The night was loud — a good, crashing loud. No one cried (thanks JN for celebrating that for us!) and without having to draw too much attention to it, the passage was felt. The fog and ice and crud on the window was swiped. Sure there was residue around the perimeter, but the center was wide open and clear. Raw and transparent. The darkness that shrouded was purposeful. It allowed for the electricity to spark and carry the room. On a cold night, people were sweaty.

These fab four re-entered a very sacred space together, connected, created and reaffirmed for all of us what it means to have each other. You can do things alone and there are times that you simply have to do just that. But when you have your brothers-in-arms at your side — not your wife, not your kids, not your parents, not your siblings —  but those people whom you and the fates allow to be a part of your life for reasons both unknown and not, you realize that there is something really incredible — and most times indescribable — about simply being alive.

On stage, they were four grown men each with their grown-up personas and lives. But they were also breathing, thriving reminders of their younger selves — zealous, open, quasi-rebellious teens taking part in the cathartic release and empowerment that is rock n’ roll. We were witness to the moment and to an extent participated. But theirs was a crucible that was magical for them.

Dave Purcell, Pike 27; Photo Credit: ORU Media

Sean Rhiney, Pike 27; Photo Credit: ORU Media

Mike Fair, Pike 27; Photo Credit: ORU Media

Dave Killen, Pike 27; Photo Credit: ORU Media

I realized this morning that not one picture was taken of Dave and I together last night, and honestly, I find that incredibly fitting. This was his to have with his mates. Watching him have it was perfect. ~Jacqui

February 27, 2016 - Posted by daveandjacqui | Dave, Everyday