I’ve known Dale for a long time. I’d see him at least once a week. We attended the same weekly meeting for many years.
We were both night owls. We’d often talk late into the night. Dale called many times while sitting by the river. He’d tell me what I was missing, and how peaceful and beautiful it was there.
When I worried about him, he reassured me, reminding me he was a Marine and that he'd protected the President. He was proud of his service. Dale had many friends from different parts of the community. More than I even knew. He was grateful for his friends, and grateful to have reconnected with his family.
I still imagine Dale will knock on my door unexpectedly, or that he will call. I still think of him as a survivor, despite hardships and adversity, he shared his strength and wisdom and courage, his experience, strength and his hope.
He taught me a lot. And I am grateful for him. I will always hold him my heart.
Peace and love to you all, to Dale's community, his family and friends, Aaron