Founded in 1981

- D’Arcy Mercer.

This phrase was by far D’Arcy’s most common statement, advice, mantra, or quip. In the early years of our relationship, I failed to see the profound applications of the phrase, As years passed, I began to appreciate the value of aligning my mindset to his phrase, specially after his terminal diagnosis.

D’Arcy was about “having fun with it.” A rainy day was an excellent day to rest and recharge; a sunny day a special day to ride bikes to Chelsea Piers; a sad day was an opportunity to reach out to a good friend who could hear you out or make you smile again. The applications are endless regardless of the situation at the moment. [Dare: send me a situation where “just have fun with it!” wouldn’t apply.]

I was privileged to spend ten years of my life with D’Arcy, including the latter two as his husband. He was an exceptional human being who over the years imparted his personal wisdom on how to live life fully, authentically, and unapologetically. D’Arcy began to be more explicit and intentional on sharing how he approached life, especially during his last days. He wanted all of his loved ones to live well and enjoy life. Below are D’Arcy’s core beliefs on what helped him find a meaningful and peaceful life.

#9 Be you

#8 Be honest

#7 Be humble

#6 Have a dog, cat or both

#5 Dance

#4 Take care of your health, especially mental health

#3 Be kind to others

#2 Be kind to yourself

#1 Just have fun of it