Help Sterling Rebuild Home

On the Winter Solstice, my best friend Sterling lost his home to an electrical fire on his family's farm, as well as all of his belongings but for what was in a suitcase. Luckily, he was housesitting for a friend in the city and was not home at the time. However, losing everything you own and a space you have come to call yours is absolutely devastating; something that no one ever thinks will happen to them, until it does.

As long as I have known him, Sterling has never been one to place much importance on material things. But, the irreplaceable items that helped mark over a decade of traveling and frequent moving had deep sentimental value. Artwork, all of his books, journals, letters, momentos, gifts, his terere guampa (cup) marking his Peace Corps service, all his fabulous clothes, and a backpack that has circumnavigated the globe alongside him are just some of the things lost to the flames.

He is fiercely intentional in everything he does, especially when it comes to creating a sense of home. It’s one of my favorite things about him. Not only curating a safe space for himself, but also one that he loves to share with friends and family. He has provided this for me and so many others time and time again. The fact that he has lost this has absolutely shattered me. Though plenty has been lost, it is possible to slowly and surely provide Sterling with the means to begin rebuilding and find his feet again. Please take this opportunity to give what you can.