When something truly good happens—amazingly good, the kind of news that makes you stop what you’re doing for a second—the very first thing I do is reach for my phone.
I’m incredibly blessed to share my life with my wife, Daryl, and when there’s big news—good or bad—she’s always the first call. That’s not a habit; it’s instinct. We’ve walked through some of the highest highs together, like the births of our grandchildren, and some of the deepest lows, including the loss of my father and stepfather. Those moments have a way of clarifying things. When something important happens, I don’t want to process it alone—I want to process it with her. Celebration means more when it’s shared, and so does grief. She’s my partner in every sense of the word, and whatever the news is, it belongs to us before it belongs to anyone else.
The second call I make is to my daughter, Lizzi. I don’t take it lightly when I say she’s one of my best friends in the world. She has a wisdom and steadiness that still surprises me, and she’s someone I genuinely enjoy talking to—not just as a parent, but as a person. I’m mindful that some things should remain private between a husband and wife, but when it comes to good news—great news—she’s someone I want in that moment. Sharing joy with your child hits differently. It’s a reminder of how much of life is meant to ripple outward, from one generation to the next.
The third call is to my best friend, Scott. I’ve never been someone with a long list of “best” friends. I have plenty of good ones, but only one person who’s held that role for more than three decades—and that’s Scott. We’ve known each other for roughly 35 years. We’ve been best men at each other’s weddings, godfathers to each other’s children, and constants in each other’s lives through seasons of chaos, celebration, doubt, and clarity. When things get tough, he’s someone who helps me think straight. When things go right, he’s someone who knows exactly why they matter. And if the news is good enough? There’s a real chance that phone call turns into a plane ticket to Nashville and a celebration that lasts longer than it probably should.
What all of this says, I think, is that great news isn’t just about the moment itself—it’s about who you want standing beside you when it happens. For me, that list hasn’t changed much over the years. And honestly, that might be the best news of all.
Copyright © 2026 Doug DeBolt.
