Wallace was a quiet boy when we met at W.A. Fountain. This school was the brain fart of the Clayton County board of education. Get the picture, an entire school of hormone enraged seventh graders. Yeah, I agree. This was my public school indoctrination. After six years of knuckle slapping Philadelphia nuns Fountain was the wild wild west.
Discovering Wallace enjoyed the two things I was certain made this world go round at twelve, deer hunting and football I felt good about friending him between the gunfights. In time we would participate in both activities together and add cherished fishing. Hunting and fishing was the culprit our freshman year of college for making a dean’s list.
Wallace blindsided me January 1, 1981 on the turf of the Superdome. Celebrating Georgia’s national championship victory over Notre Dame the upright snapped off the goalpost, the end was feet away from crushing my skull. He saved my life.
During the decline into paralysis he was among the very few friends that crossed the bridge to disability. When still able to fish Wallace would pick me up and put me in my boat.
The last several years I had been blessed with a benefactor that made independent living possible. Sadly the gentleman recently passed away. Wallace picked up the ball and initiated a fundraiser.
It seems I’m always on the receiving end. I can only hope at some point I have been half the friend he continues to be. Do you have you have a Wallace in your life more important are you a friend indeed? Thanks so much for everything buddy! Thanks so much for reading everyone. Have a great day! dj
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I just have to say that was a wonderful tribute to your friend! But, you have one thing a little bit wrong, you aren't always on the receiving end, you help and encourage people every single day! Thank you for your words of encouragement!
ReplyDeleteDitto, your blog helps me to face the disabilites I have. Thanks so much for sharing.
ReplyDeleteDon't sell yourself short. I've never known anyone as giving as yourself and I thank God I have been on the receiving end! Thank you for your everything you are to me!
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