Jay's Bench

Art created by D&G Home Decor in Virginia.

Jay's bench is a special place at Algonkian Regional Park in Sterling, VA, located on the banks of the Potomac River. We dedicated this bench in August 2016 to honor Jay’s memory.

Algonkian Park holds deep significance for our family. I played house league soccer there as a child, my husband Tim worked there as a park ranger in high school, and Jay spent countless hours golfing there, both on his own and as a golfer with the LJGA and his high school varsity team.

When Jay passed away, we wanted to establish a place where his friends, family, teammates, and classmates could go to reflect, find peace, and remember him.

What we didn't foresee when we had the bench dedicated was how many others would also come to cherish this spot. Whenever we visit Jay’s bench, we almost always find it occupied.

Who’s On Jay’s Bench?

The visitors are most often strangers to us. Sometimes there’s a young couple, other times a group of friends, or other times a parent and child using Jay’s bench as a convenient surface to hold their tackle box while they fish nearby. From a distance, we see them talking and enjoying the beautiful scenery. We never interrupt. Instead we sit nearby, feeling grateful that Jay’s bench is serving others so well.

I often think about their stories. What brought them to Jay's bench? And what could they be talking about? Are they exploring a new relationship, resolving a conflict, or strengthening an existing bond? Are they sharing lighthearted jokes or engaging in a deep, emotional conversation?

We never get close enough to know for sure, but we recognize that Jay's Bench has become a setting for important emotional work. Visitors are enriched by the location, the view, and the company they share while there.

Who’s On Your Bench?

What if you had a bench, even a metaphorical one, where you completed important emotional work? Who are the people you would want to join you on your bench?

Take a moment today to reflect on this question. Once you've identified these key individuals, reach out to them and let them know how much they mean to you!

You might also consider inviting them to join you for Jay Walkers’s inaugural Pathway to Action: the Personal Wellness Check-In. This program offers exercises designed to help you assess and improve your overall well-being. Sharing this exploration of your Personal Pathway with someone from your "bench" is a great way to enrich your life and your friendship.

If you are in the vicinity of Algonkian Regional Park, you could even begin the work with your friend at Jay's Bench, located on the Potomac Heritage trail, along the river's edge, west of the public boat launch.

Go to Personal Wellness Check-In