An Exception to the Rules

This morning we celebrated the life of a man who has now joined the ranks of the Daybreak saints. Bill passed away peacefully on Friday night, shortly after celebrating his 56th birthday. He was a member of the Daybreak community from the very moment of its foundation. He was the first member to ever enter into this community at the age of 16. Even then, Bill was an exception to the rules.

Bill told jokes. In truth, they were horrible jokes. The best part of the jokes was that the set-up and the punch-lines really weren't the point. The laughter was. Bill had a great loud laugh and his laugh followed every joke. His willingness and ability to laugh invited laughter from all those around him. I'm sure that right now Bill is asking St. Peter "How do you make holy water?"

For many years, Bill was the traveling companion to Henri Nouwen. He spoke with Henri at numerous retreats and conferences that were given all over the world. His untrained, uninhibited responses to life would allow people to drop their defenses towards each other, if even for just a little while, and really connect with those around them. He was able to touch and change the lives of thousands through his work with Henri Nouwen, and after Henri's death, his work with Sue Mosteller in a similar capacity.

Over the past few years, Bill dealt with the realities of a physically failing body. I can only hope that when I am faced with the same restrictions that he is, that I can approach the chances with as much grace and joy. He never ceased to laugh or to enjoy the presence of those around him. The end of his life contained just as much dignity as the rest of his life and he will always be remembered for the joy as well as the depth that he brought to the lives around him. Rest with the rest of the Daybreak saints Bill. You will not be forgotten.