Steve Wood. To describe his spirit is to say he was one. Steve vibrated on a higher level. He was pure joy. He beamed. Steve had an energy that could just draw people in, and in no time at all they would be sharing their deepest thoughts and feelings. He could just read people, and he had that conspiratorial fun of creating inside jokes with those he had JUST met. Making people feel like they’d been his friend forever, connecting immediately. He was always true to himself, empathetic and wildly passionate. 

When he spoke to you, he looked into your eyes. He was there. He listened. At times the intensity of his presence-of-moment could be arresting.

Steve was one of the most vocal supporters of his friends and was instrumental in bringing numerous people back to themselves after trauma. He helped so many discover their power and beauty and perfection. Always reminding us, “be kind to yourself.” He understood the human experience in a profound way. From the depths of our physical selves to our emotional and spiritual needs —our bodies and our breath, our emotions, and how they are all connected. He was a teacher, maybe even a guru. Always providing the space for deep learning. As a student and a friend, spending time with Steve could be transcendent. 

Steve was HILARIOUS! His smile and laugh was simply the best. Part of his efficacy was that he only took seriously what needed to be taken seriously. If it didn’t truly matter - he would let you know! And in no time at all you’d be laughing until tears. He knew so many funny people, truly genius comics, and he was in there swinging with the best of them. He loved laughter and he loved to make people laugh.

Sharing a meal with Steve was to love life along with him. The recipe, the table setting, the flowers, the tastes and smells, the conversation. He engaged all his sense, all the time. Steve’s ability to live each moment was infectious. You could not share a meal with him and not feel the sheer joy of being alive. 

Steve traveled the world. He appreciated beautiful things, architecture, art, music. He LOVED his dog, Lupo. They were best pals. Steve loved all animals, nature, and children. Steve loved to point out the absurd. He expressed himself. Something so many people stifle. Well, Steve let it out! And it was THRILLING.

To truly FEEL and experience each moment of living will be Steve Wood’s legacy. 

How lucky we were to know him and love him. 

(Thank you Katie Rose, you captured the essence of Steve perfectly.)