Chris Shafer

I always made him sit in the back to utilize his strong Samoan rowing skills! (Hey, somebody had to read the map)

Coffee!

Chris was my teacher in so many ways, he was the calm centering voice of reason to my often impulsive, compulsive nature.  Remembering walks and talks that went on for hours about life and the purpose of it all.

Travel was when we had some of the best times together, often I would be charging on and I would turn back to find Chris examining a unique flower, or just marveling at the Tokyo skyline in its bizarre beauty. To Chris's family and loved ones just a few words:

Chris finished his work on earth and left the stage in a manner that leaves those of us left behind with a cry of agony in our hearts as the fragile thread of our faith is dealt with so violently.  I can't assuage your pain with words, nor should I, for your pain is Chris's legacy to you, not that he or I would inflict such pain by choice, but there it is.  And it must burn its purifying way to completion, for something inside you dies when you bear the unbearable and it is only in that dark night of the soul that you are prepared to see as God sees, and to love as God loves.
In my heart I know that you and he will meet again and again and when you meet you will know in a flash what is not given to you to know: Why this had to be the way it was.
Our rational minds can never understand what has happened, but our hearts--if we can keep them open to God--will find their own intuitive way.  Now his soul is free, and the love that you can share with him is invulnerable to the winds of changing time and space.  In that deep love, include me.  So much Love-M

A classic photo. I have so many memories of rocking out to Chris and with Chris - I think he tought me how to bang my head to music. our circle of friends - amy, bob, doug, matt, susie... what great times. 

 

Since hearing the news about Chris, I have had an overwhelming feeling of loss. While we weren't in touch for some time, his friendship - our friendship, was such a blessing in my life.

In Santa Barbara we became fast friends. He was such a carefree spirit. He was genuine, true and so comfortable with who he was. His smile, his laugh, his energy....was shared with so many of us. 

I consider myself lucky to have the amazing memories of such a neat person.

My heart and thoughts go out to Amy and family and friends. I wish I could be at the memorial tomorrow but I can't attend and instead plan to visit Isla Vista soon - where we had so many amazing and hilarious journeys together. 

You will be in my heart forever Chris! 

Your friend,
Carrie Goldstein