If you’ve visited The Willows, you may have been greeted by Douglas Eastman at the front desk, enjoyed one of his recipes from “Cooking with Douglas,” or heard him sing and play the piano and organ. A talented and beloved resident, Douglas has faced many challenges on his life journey. He shares his story to inspire others, showing that redemption is possible.
Douglas Eastman was raised in a small farming community in southern Oklahoma. After earning a Bachelor of Music degree in 1973, Douglas moved to Los Angeles to study under a singing teacher, who turned out to be a Christian Scientist. Immersed in this environment, he embraced Christian Science, an influence that has remained significant throughout his life. His first job in L.A. was as a gardener at Broadview, where he experienced his first spiritual healing and met his future Christian Science teacher.
As Douglas began his spiritual journey, his musical path also flourished. He sang at churches across Malibu and beyond, nurturing his artistry along the way. Yet, a deep yearning for home led him back to southern Oklahoma and Texas, where he pursued a master’s degree in music focusing on piano. During this time, he taught elementary music and explored real estate, but the call of music and his former teacher's influence eventually drew him back to California—this time to Arden Wood in San Francisco.
San Francisco offered Douglas a chance to reunite with his singing teacher and continue his studies, but life’s challenges soon took their toll. A battle with addiction took hold, lasting 23 years. During this dark period, three questions continually surfaced in his mind: What about the people who love you? Are you going to turn your back on those who care about you? Are you going to waste the gifts God gave you? These questions lingered, even in his lowest moments, quietly urging him toward change.
In 2014 a turning point came. Seeking help, Douglas entered a treatment center in Burbank, where a compassionate Christian Science nurse helped restore his sense of dignity and purpose. This critical step led him to The Willows the following year—a community that offered stability, support, and the opportunity for growth.
At The Willows Douglas found personal and spiritual healing. Hired first as a caregiver, he transitioned to the reception desk, where he rebuilt his social skills and interacted with residents, staff, and visitors.
“The Willows provided a safe place and space to do the spiritual work that I desperately needed to do.”
Guided by a kind couple at The Willows, Douglas rediscovered the grace and joy that music and spirituality had always brought him. With their support, he reawakened the gifts he once thought were lost. Through faith and resilience, he rebuilt his life, now illuminated by dignity, integrity, and joy.
A profound breakthrough came at the end of last year when Douglas awoke in the middle of the night with a powerful realization—he wanted to give back to the communities that had saved him. For the first time, he felt ready to do so without fear of lack, embracing a deep sense of gratitude and abundance. “I feel enriched in every area of my life now,” he reflects.
Today he embraces his past without shame, cherishing the lessons learned and wisdom gleaned. His journey is a testament to the boundless potential for redemption and renewal in every individual. And he hopes to welcome others to The Willows, a place where spiritual growth and joyful activity thrives, and transformation is possible.
