Oh, Don. Deep and dear friend, father figure, mentor, poet, jazz musician and afficionado, reluctant role model, comrade in banter, abstract expressionist, fellow explorer, sparring partner. He helped me find the man I am — poked and prodded against a thick protective shield I used to keep me hidden from myself and others — and then he helped me find the courage to grow into that man. And we held onto each other through a lot. We had so much joy together. So much. I miss you, Don. I will always treasure your friendship.

Finest recent memory: Don and Cam Willard and I on an excursion to see a new print of Tarkovsky's "Andrei Rublev" at the Coolidge Corner Theater. Big tub of buttered popcorn, rapture on our faces.