Instead of flowers, Ben’s family asked for donations to a Buzzard’s Bay boating program that teaches young people to love and respect the water. The Benjamin C Suddard was the result – a restored safety boat with all the necessary power and gadgets.

It’s a fitting way to honor Ben, who loved his family, the Wareham community, the water and coastline. He loved his family business – oyster farming. He loved making beautiful, useful things like benches for the public library. He loved skiing and being in the mountains. Ben loved his life.

I took this picture, one of those gathered to see the boat enter the water for the first time. As it headed out into the setting sun’s path, only the outline could be seen; the details were lost in light. To me, it’s a visual metaphor: the contours of our lives continue on in the world we leave behind. Ben’s will help countless people because he gave of his time and talent to make the world a better, more beautiful place.

What do I see? A life well lived and a spirit embraced by the God who loved him.

What Do You See?