Per request:
Tribute to DAC Member Donald Jackson Masters 1946-2009
by Cyndi Uhl
September 27, 2009
“Nothing in the world is permanent, and we’re foolish when we ask anything to last, but surely we’re still more foolish not to take delight in it while we have it.”
Somerset Maugham, The Razor’s Edge
It was a strange moment when I sat down to begin writing a tribute to my dear friend, Donald. In my habit of avoiding difficult tasks, I began leafing through a copy of The Razor’s Edge which Donald had given me many months before. I knew that this was one of his favorite stories and from which he saw many parallels to his own life. Seeing that he had underlined this particular quote, I knew how to begin my tribute.
In September, Donald died in a motorcycle accident in a remote area of Idaho. He was killed after failing to negotiate a turn on a mountain road. As the saying goes, “he died doing what he loved best.” But that does not fill the void of his passing.
Donald had many successful careers, first as a military officer and later as an attorney and entrepreneur. But despite the intense demands of business, he dedicated large amounts of his personal time to assisting people struggling with substance addictions. A man of powerful compassion and spiritual focus, Donald generously gave his heart and energy to various 12-step programs and Contemplative Outreach.
Although born, raised, and educated in the East, Donald felt profoundly connected to the mountain West. Shortly into his law career in New York, he decided to head to Denver, where he spent the rest of his life. Skiing, cycling, and motorcycling were a constant part of his life and Donald strove to balance his personal, professional, and spiritual relationships with a healthy lifestyle. We used to meet in the DAC’s Fitness Center to workout together and share conversations. With his blinding intellect and huge appetite for reading, he could discuss virtually anything. Donald was never boring.
I was opposed to his taking the long motorcycle trip. I didn’t think it was safe. In hindsight, the trip seems emblematic of his life having come full circle. Having visited friends and family across several western states, he was headed towards Colorado to meet his newborn baby granddaughter when the accident occurred.
Like Maugham’s character Larry Darrell, Donald was dedicated to the pursuit of truth and meaning.
I have lost a deeply affecting friend. The DAC has lost an extraordinary member.