Stand By Your Man

Kept warm in a purple sweater Kris Donelon is seated in her patio furniture inside her California Heights garage. A couple of satellite dish space heaters keep the dampness of the rainy day warm like invisible blanket waves. Before the beginning of the skate park movement in Long Beach, California she has been by Mike Donelon’s side ever since they courageously organized the youth by passing out flyers on roller blades beside the steps of Belmont Pool during the late 90s. Kris’ pensive moment followed the grand opening of the Michael K. Green skate park.

They faced many challenges side by side. Love poured into their marriage like water in a crystal carafe has wedded their lives with underprivileged youth with sacrificial care. A fresh tablecloth was spread out for the guests they served around a rectangular table. Lit by florescent light and the Bud Light neon sign set the tone of shuffling cowboy boots on a sawdust covered floor. Tossed beer bottles clink settle into a bin. A quarter released into the jukebox slot. Cheers, whistles and a steel pedal guitar accompany Tammy Wynette’s Stand By Your Man song:

“Sometimes it’s hard to be a woman
Giving all your love to just one man
You’ll have bad times, and he’ll have good times
Doin’ things that you don’t understand
But if you love him, you’ll forgive him
Even though he’s hard to understand
And if you love him, oh be proud of him
‘Cause after all he’s just a man”