In the heart of every family, there are stories that shape and define its members. Today, I invite you on a journey through the inspiring legacy of my cherished little cousin, Damien Lewis, who was not just family, but a beacon of joy and ambition.

Damien, affectionately known as “Big Six” – akin to the largest domino piece in the game – was more than a cousin to me; he was like a little brother, a comrade in the countless hours we spent playing dominoes. Those games were not merely a pastime but a bond, woven with laughter and joy, that connected us deeply. I still remember the day I introduced him to the game, a memory now etched in the fabric of our shared history.

Life’s circumstances often pulled us in different directions, yet our bond remained unbreakable despite the physical miles between us. After relocating to Oklahoma City, our reunions were limited to precious summers, but the distance could never diminish the connection we shared. Damien’s decision to pursue a career as a barber brought a new dimension to our relationship. I stood by him, supporting him through his journey from dropping him off at barber school before my college classes to picking him up on my way home. I had the privilege of witnessing his transformation into a masterful barber, understanding firsthand the profound impact one man with clippers can have on a community.