Following the amazing two-year anniversary convergence of @F3Raleigh at #PullenPark and coffetoria, 11 PAX convoyed over to Dufresne’s for a visit and to ensure we start the month off right. As the first wave arrived, Dufresne’s son, PackMan, and a friend were in the backyard putting the recently assembled trampoline through its paces. MDufresne greeted us upon arrival, we washed the workout griminess from our hands, and headed upstairs to be with Dufresne. Following last Friday’s (2/21/14) relaunch of low impact workouts with Dufresne, he took a rough turn, had an allergic reaction resulting in severe swelling of his face, and was in bed. Our goal was to let him know men across F3Raleigh were walking alongside him, praying for him during COT of each workout. Today was no different – 112 strong at #PullenPark.
We called an audible and amended the SOP, announcing each member of the PAX by name, F3 name, and age so Dufresne would be aware who was with him. We shared with Dufresne the overview of the two-year anniversary convergence, a few announcements, and warned him we were planning to sing. Thankfully sheet music was provided and most importantly Slash agreed to lead us. #F3GleeClub? Three solid hymns were sung – Amazing Grace, He Leadeth Me, and Be Thou My Vision. The final hymn’s tune was a bit elusive to some of us so it took on a spoken word / monastic chant feel by the end. When words are hard to come by, hymns can be a balm. It was heartfelt, it was powerful, and we were grateful for the opportunity to share the time with Dufresne and one another. Best of all, as rough as Dufresne was feeling, that smile of his emerged several times. Dufresne’s smile was the purest high note of the visit.
We circled Dufrene’s bed and Countrywide led us out with a strong prayer. “We’re here to help shepherd this family through a difficult time,” were Orwell’s words circling through my mind. Parting words to Dufresne, “We love you brother, we’ll be back Tuesday.” Huge T-claps to the PAX for being part of this. The sign up sheet via Google Doc is below. Join us for a visit.
