At the Corner of Guilt and Delight

My friend Jeff asked me to write a note to go on the back cover of his book, but I have many more words than could ever fit in this space. Jeff and I have been close friends for 35 years, and many of the memories included here are things he told me about as they were happening - his acceptance of his sexuality, his romantic misadventures, his enjoyment of living and working in New York City, and the years he spent in the company of an eccentric silent movie star. I've known or met quite a few of the people he writes about, and was married to one of them. Those I never met, like his dear friend Bulah, I feel like I know because of his evocative stories. And, thanks to Jeff, I had both Shirley MacLaine and Bella Abzug in my living room, at the same time, on one unforgettable evening In many ways, Jeff is still the sweet, unaffected kid I met in 1987, but he has changed in one big way. His writing has improved tremendously through these years. He was always a good storyteller, but now his style and ease with words enhances that storytelling. He posted these reminiscences on Facebook, and on his blog, during the last year, and many people encouraged him to publish. I'm glad he decided to do so. And on a more personal note, as a mental health counselor who works with many persons in the LGBTQ+ community, I'm always glad when someone writes with knowledge and experience about being gay. Jeff makes it clear that this is not something he chose. He knew who he was, even as a small child. I hope that people who need to understand this will read his words and learn. -Karen Everson Duncan