David Jenkins

I spent yesterday with a remarkable man by the name of David Jenkins. He invited me to Easter Sunday services and I admit, if it wasn't for him, I likely would not have been in church - much to the chagrin of my mother. David is a piano player in two different churches in Philadelphia and has the spirit of an angel. It is appropriate that he sets the mood for spiritual services. He's a gentle giant with joyful wisdom that is constantly erupting. David has a lot to teach the world and is a walking testimony. His medical ailments are life-threatening but not to his spirit. I am lucky he has given me the permission to document his life and share it with the world.

I found him unexpectedly. I was helping a dear friend/mentor move out of a long-established office space when he walked in the room to help out with the moving party. I liked him instantly. He was all smiles and lightened the mood to an otherwise drab atmosphere. There is nothing more stressful than moving. Ever since then, talking with David or spending time with him means all smiles from an eternal place. He has seen more than his share of pain and illness and reminds me of a patient I lost two years ago who exemplified the same depth of peace and joy despite it all. I think telling his story is going to finally allow me to heal from trying to tell hers. Life is cyclical like that. If your heart is open... just the right people walk in at just the right time. David thinks he needs me to tell his story and leave a legacy. But truth of the matter is I think I need him to begin telling mine.