Fine Art

I’m out with my family tonight. We stop to get gas and are approached by a desperate looking woman. “Please can you help me, We need to get home to Pomona, and we don’t have enough gas.”

I’m not sure if I have sucker written all over my face or I’m just charitable. Either way, It’s close to the holidays, and why not give a little. I tell her I’ll put $10 of gas in her car. Even though I’m very skeptical, I’m a man of my word, so I give them the gas. It’s the holidays after all.

But here is what get’s to me. I’m putting the fuel in their car, when I realize all the inhabitants are knocking back freshly cracked Red Bulls. At over two bucks a can, I know I’m getting duped, I quickly stop pumping. I’m done. I did my part, the sin is on them. If they are grifters, all I can do is hope they change their ways soon.

I try to give them a chance for redemption in inviting them to 365. What a surprise, they decline with a, “We’re sick.”

Within minutes they are after another target. A senior citizen who is pumping at the next station. These people are shameless. I’ve not even left the parking lot and they are onto mark two.

One thing I need to mention. My exploiting friends have one of my business cards. So this note is to them:

“I hold no grudge. But recommend that you do some deep self-examination as to your contribution to society. Ask yourself this, ‘What good am I doing for the world today? Sweet dreams.'”

Now back to the story. I approach the senior to whom my unnamed friends are soliciting, my goal, to be sure they take not a cent of his money. Well he is smarter than I, and is on to them, not a cent in exchanged. The grifters exit, leaving me with today’s 365 friend, Lawrence.

Lawrence is very gracious, but due to circumstances, he only has time for an extremely brief chat. I’m not even sure I can call it a chat. Lawrence is in a great hurry, his wife has been patiently waiting in the car, and it is obvious that she would rather be elsewhere.

I do my best to quickly give my regular introduction to 365: An explanation accompanied by an iPad sampling. We get through that, and Lawrence is engaged and intrigued. Time for questions. Well, what I really need to say is, “question.”

That’s pretty much all I get, “one question.”

But still, one question deserves one answer.

The question:
“What words of wisdom would you like to share?”

The answer:
“Stay Alive.”

It’s a start, I’ve had bumpier beginnings, but as I begin to crack my mouth with question two, the passenger door flies open, “Let’s go, I don’t want to have my picture taken,” Lawrence’s wife has met her wit’s end and is ready to go home. I appreciate her request and halt my interview, knowing if I press harder I am most likely putting myself, and Lawrence, at risk.

So appreciating the wisdom of I have gained this night, I lean on Lawrence’s council of “Stay Alive.” And the best way to do that is to honor thy wife.

I learn two lessons this evening.

Never give gas to grifters drinking Red Bull.

and

I don’t think I’m scared of carnies anymore.

Lawrence, thanks for the short interview tonight. You have a great sense of humor, and I hope you and your wife got home safely.

On any given night, in any given city, at any given time, there are amazing secret happenings. Silent acts of giving, compassion and of service to humanity. No selfless deed is unrewarded, and tonight I meet a young lady who exemplifies works of good.

I speak regularly about my chin-up and eyes-wide-open philosophy. That is, notice your neighbors and the world around you. This point-of-view has been a driving force to 365.

It is no surprise then, when as I am driving, just one mile away from my house, I notice a large group of people crossing the street. Accompanying them are several photographers and my attention is peaked when flash of camera’s spark across my windshield.

I’m traveling at 45mph, and with a head snap, I do the best I can to discern what is the event. Whatever it is, I’m in. A quick turn around the block and back to the scene I return. It only takes me about two minutes, but as I re-pass the place of sighting: not a person in view.

I park and decide to investigate. There must have been 100 people, all gone. Could I have just stumbled upon an alien abduction? Perhaps? They can’t just disappear.

I look to the heavens and with no extra terrestrial threats looming, and now standing at ground zero, I notice several more individuals disappearing into a retirement center only ten paces to my left, I follow.

In I go, and in the blink of an eye, I am in the heart of a wonderful occasion. It’s a Christmas / Hanukkah party for the residents, and the place is packed with people. I ask a few questions and am introduced to the program director, Nicole, our 365 friend of the day.

Beautiful, young and vibrant is the best way to express first glance of Nicole. Yet there is greater depth to this special young lady than what first meets my eye, she is a giant of compassion.

This party, this evening, in this little hidden retirement center is changing lives. And from what I see, about two hundred lives. I’m not talking about the resident only, but the families and people who are in attendance as well.

And at the center of it all: Nicole.

There is music of all kinds performed by A list performers, children of all ages walk the room sharing hugs and kisses to the many lovely seniors living within the walls of this secluded slice of life.

All around me is love, and it is infectious. It is no wonder, only fifteen minutes ago; I was so taken by my first sighting of the group crossing the street. They grabbed me at a core level, deeper than the flash of the camera that first caught my eye. There was an undeniable draw. My analysis, “They are all living angels.”

I learn more of Nicole’s motivations for what she does, and why she works so hard (along with the rest of the centers staff) to prepare such a special evening. “I lost my mother when she was in her old age. She lived in a retirement home and died of Cancer. I was with her the whole way. When she passed, I promised myself that I would never let a senior citizen feel unloved or alone. And that’s why I am here.”

Her time with me is limited to a minute here and a minute there. Finding moments to chat with me as she circulates the room. I stand silent and watch her. There is not a resident that she ignores. It is obvious that they are the reason for her evening, and it is easy to see the admiration they have for her. I am touched.

Watching Nicole puts me in my place and I begin to socialize with the residents. It’s not about me anymore; it’s about honoring the many people around me, most of whom have likely formed much of the world I now exist in.

I think for a moment about my mother, a young 87 with the energy of a 20 year old. I’m a little lucky right now. She is very independent, but things could change at any time. Would I want her to be swept aside, even if she suffered Alzheimer’s; Absolutely not.

I speak with a dozen or so residents, some with all their faculties, others in various stages of dementia. Every time, searching for the presence of Nicole. Not so much to interview her, but to thank her for the work she does and inviting me to be part of this special evening. I soon will not forget this experience.

Yes, Nicole’s daily routine involves, calendars, planning events and the general operations of the activities for the community. I know, however, there is more to it than that. This is a calling for her.

A model by trade, Nicole plans on using her talents to do good. “I want to travel the world.” She says with enthusiasm. But there is one condition, “Only if I can give back.”

The key, “Give back.” Could she be taking about helping our older generations? “I think so.”

Nicole is a doer. “In tribute to my mother, I’ve set up a non-profit organization and am working on putting together a Cancer Walk in Pasadena. I want to do it in 2012.”

I promise her this. “I’ll promote your cause.”

“So readers, if any of you have lost loved ones to Cancer, and wish to help Nicole accomplish the dream of producing her 2012 Pasadena Cancer Walk. Drop me a line or comment. I’ll get you in touch with her.”

After all, “We are in this thing together.”

Nicole leaves us this council:

“Never give up. No matter how hard the situation is, let it make you get stronger.”

The through-line continues.

At day 86, all I can say is, “I’m still in” 365 has been quite the quest, and not only do I pay homage to all who have so graciously contributed in allowing me to photograph them, but to you, my readers.

Many of you have stood by my side from the beginning. From Hawaii to Philadelphia to California, you have been my companions. So as friends talk to friends, I’m speaking to you from my living room.

Tonight’s entry is going to be a little different. Here’s why. It’s 6:25pm at the moment. Pretty early on all accounts, and no reason to be discouraged. But I have to come clean, I am a touch fatigued.

For 85 days I’ve put in at least four hours a day to 365, sometimes a bit more; that on top of my regular work and family schedule is a pretty aggressive commitment. One that I am happy to do, with no regrets, the rewards are enormous.

Planning on a family evening, I started looking for my friend early today, 2:00pm to be exact, thinking I’d get a head start, and be able to write my entry before our traditional Christmas tree decorating festivities.

To my dismay, I search for three hours, by car and by foot, to find 365 friend – day 86, and, for the life of me, I cannot figure out why all are rejecting my invitations: 15 people to be exact. The conversations are pleasant, but still, no takers.

I need to let you know, I’ve got a great family, without whom there would be no way I could complete the project. Even at the moment of this writing, my nine-year-old daughter is documenting me with photos.

So here is the deal, for almost three months, my family has sacrificed not seeing me at the dinner table. It’s the first calm Saturday we have had in some time, and I want to spend a little pre-holiday time at home. But here is what we’ll do: A quick photo safari.

Our destination: Candy Cane Lane, a regular holiday route of highly decorated houses. It draws a substantial crowd of drive by traffic. And when things really heat up, many pedestrians. I’m crossing my fingers to find someone there. And when I do, chances are it’s going to be a shorter than usual interview, sort of my gift to me, and to my family.

We’re going to hold off on dinner and just go with the flow. See you in a few hours.

7:30pm: We hit Candy Cane Lane, roughly six blocks of exquisite power consumption. Have to love the holiday spirit of this neighborhood. It’s still a bit early in the season, so there are not many people in sight.

As we drive up and down the streets, the way we have done for the past ten years, my daughter enthusiastically announces, “Stop, there is a family over there, behind to bubbles.”

Sure enough, not 20 feet to the right of us we spot, high in the trees, Shann, and ground side, his lovely wife Samantha with daughter Charlotte (not pictured).

Funny how things work out. Our plan for the evening, family night. It’s a bit of serendipity that we should run into an incredibly united family. So much so that I feel a bond in parenthood as we briefly chat about family values and our children. How cool is this, It turns out to be a a family night after all, family time buried within our 365 experience. The best of all worlds. And you know what, I’m glad that my kid is getting the chance to reach out and meet people.

She is by my side, working with me in expressing the origins of 365. For a nine-year-old, she has it down and I am proud of her for her ability to communicate with new people. She is my rock star and I encourage all of us to mark her example. In a way, she is encouraging us to get our kids out in allowing them to actively meet the communities they live in. What better way to help them build self-esteem and confidence. Thanks kid!

There is an instant kinship that I feel with my new friends as they invite us onto their property.

Past the bubbles we travel, getting a close up look at the lighting assembly in progress. And even though Shann is up to his head in strings of light, he cordially steps away from his progress to take my questions.

We keep it rather brief, with Shann and Samantha each taking one of my two questions. It is a wonderful thing meeting couples that are so united in their perspectives that they can answer as one.

Shann takes the first question.

“What words do you have for the world?”

He gives us all a personal challenge. “Self evaluate yourself often, asking, am I making a positive impact on the world? Whether it be daily, weekly or monthly, just do it. We all make mistakes, that’s human nature, but as we catch them, do the work to correct them. Learn to embrace your fellow man and do correct by the world.”

Samantha’s turn, “What are you wishes for the future?”

Her response, “To see my kids happier than us?”

A huge answer. You see, at first sight I am certain that Shann and Samantha are an extremely happy couple. The smiles written all over their faces and the comfort and unity in which they exhibit is evidence of this. I am inspired by her motherly compassion and evident is her love of family.

She expands, “I want them to follow their dreams, to listen to what is in their hearts, and to be brave enough to not follow what the world tells them to do.”

As Samantha and I are talking, Shann has taken a leave of absence, returning with a front yard dinner for Charlotte. Looks like a kid’s favorite, Mac and Cheese. Being a dad, I know this menu item first hand. It is one of the culinary favorites that is within a father’s food preparing skill set, especially in this era of microwave bliss.

We finish our conversation and as we do, I take a quick self-inventory of the day (credit to Shann for getting me on path). I recall the feelings I experienced just hours before in my fatigued frustration. I link it to what I am feeling now and apply it to Shann’s earlier message. “Learn to embrace you fellow man and do correct by the world.”

365 is happening for a reason. My meeting with this special family this evening, by chance or not? I am uncertain? But one thing is resolute. There are countless people out there who all share one simple perspective. Do good by your fellow man.

Shann, Samantha, Charlotte. Thank you for allowing me into your life this evening. Your lights are beautiful, and your words are sweet. I’m glad I adhered to my daughter’s navigation and followed your bubbles.

BTW: We arrive home after our visit with you. Guess what my girl requests for dinner.

That’s right… Mac and Cheese.

“My childhood was fun, crazy and wonderful. Mom was the social coordinator and dad was the orchestra leader. I would have had an ideal upbringing, all except for one thing, my dad’s drinking.”

One of the many reflections from Patrick, today’s 365 friend.

In regards to his growing up, Patrick is enthusiastic, as he exuberantly reenacts endless accounts of growing up in a small Southern New Hampshire town of 5000.

“My parents had tons of parties, people were always over, and  for me, it was a safe time. We knew everyone in the neighborhood. And all looked out for each other. It was way different than it is now.” There is a spark in Patrick’s eyes as he makes this claim.

What I find out in a fast two hours with Patrick is this, “He cares.” Not just about his family (and it’s huge, his mom had 5 siblings and his dad 15), but also for his friends, customers, and remarkably, for the future of our kids.

“No one thinks about each other anymore and too many kids are raised with no common sense or respect.” At the moment he expresses this sentence, a group of unchaperoned teens run screaming past the front of the store. “See what I mean. Right next to me is a tutoring school. How do you think the kids studying there feel about that interruption?” He shakes it off and resumes his discourse on his childhood.

“We respected our parents, my mom was a great woman, I miss her dearly,” showing me his ear-ring which is made from one of his mothers diamonds. “ Both of Patrick’s parents are deceased, but to this day, he respects the life lesson’s he learned from them.

My mom was a feisty Italian and Dad was a spirited Irishman.

Patrick tells me more about his mother and his love and honor of  her. “When I was a kid, if mom rang the bell, we moved our asses to dinner. We all sat as a family every night. mom took great care of us.”

“Dad was a character,” he goes on the share story after story of his fathers colorful personality. Things like one cold Winter night when neighbors put a gag sign in his yard. “My dad ran out of the house in his boxers, and with all laughing, proceeded to spray them off with a hose. He was out there for 30 minutes, in the cold, my dad was just that way.”

I’m starting to get the picture of the passion that must have been in his childhood home.

One thing that strikes me louder than words, and Patrick has many, is the blend of absolute order and creativity in Patrick’s framing shop. Everything is in its place, and his work is nothing short of perfect.

My customers love coming here and most return again and again. “I do not try to up sell anyone. My goal is to help them preserve memories.”

In touring Patrick’s workroom (where the framing magic happens), I come across a shadow box sitting on a perfectly organized work table. He gives me the rundown. “Everything I do is custom. This project will take me hours and I want to make it perfect for my customer.”

Here is what is really cool about this place. It has a “you’re at home” vibe. I get it when Patrick starts to share stories of his customers. “I love the people who come in here, we are a community, and the best compliment I get is when my customers shed a tear in seeing their memories come to life in the framing I provide.” He is incredibly sincere with this claim and I know Patrick cares.

Patrick is funny, very funny. Four adjectives describe him: Smart, spontaneous, inspired and loving.

“When I was 8. I wanted to be Merv Griffin. I even remember one night when my parents went out, leaving me with my brothers and sisters. I rearranged the living room, turning it into a talk show. I role played both Merv and his guests. I’ll never forget it and that is where my quest to know people began.”

I ASK MY QUESTIONS:

Can you share any words of counsel or wisdom?

“Go big or stay home. Life is too short to miss opportunity. And always remember, when you ego is as big as you ass, you are in trouble. And if you don’t enjoy what you are doing, GET THE HELL OUT.”

And that is exactly what he did after years in the corporate world, He got out.

Where do you see yourself in the future?

“Still feeling in love as much as I am now!”

In parting; Patrick share this call to action. “Take care of you mothers and respect the old.”

And please tell the world this, “I am the Framing Fairy, and proud to say it!”

“There is no step by step way to life, All I know is you are supposed to help people.”

After two hours of driving tonight, Santa Ana winds howling at my car, the air stills long enough for me to find Lawrence, who shares the above quote on life.

Yet it is more than still skies that draw me to him. I feel it is destined to happen. Like I said, two hours of driving, during which I loop past the Chatsworth train station three times. Each time with a feeling growing that I must stop.

Finally I relent to that feeling and pull into the station parking lot. It’s a rather quite station, except for the occasional roar of gusting wind. Gust is an understatement, more like a jet blast. The platform is mostly still, a person here and a person there. And with a very long day behind me, my brain is beginning to fail, leaving me to question my reasoning for being here.

I’ll admit, so far the greatest motivator tonight is my lovely wife. I’m Ashamed to say, I came inches from throwing in the 365 towel only hours before. But Terri would not let me, “Quit being a panty waist, get your camera, get out of here and go find somebody. Remember what you said, ‘No matter rain or shine, sickness or health,’ this is nothing today, so you’re a little tired, now go, get in the car and get out!'”

And right she is. Tonight turns out to be an amazing experience. Not by my own power, but by that of Lawrence. At first he allows me only ten minutes, not sure why, but I jump right in, taking a quick set of photos while asking a few questions. There is something about him that is wonderfully peaceful, so a rush conflicts me a little.

I soon find out why we are rushing. No big deal, seems Lawrence has a bus to catch. A short commute to a nearby connection station to connect with a commuter bus. His connecting stop is on route to my home. I offer him a ride and the pressure is off.

With the race for time now off our shoulders we settle into a pleasant conversation in the comfort of our four-wheeled wind shelter.

At thirty-one years wise, Lawrence has the wisdom of ages. “Walk through life to live and learn. Take time to listen to everyone.” Council that he credits to the love of his grandparents, of whom he spent much of his early years eagerly engaged with. “I spent so much time with them, they practically raised me.”

That alone impresses me. How many of us spent the bulk of our youth learning from our grandparents. “They have experienced so much of life, and what they taught me is the basis for my life,” Lawrence implies.

Lawrence comes from a big family, really big. I’m not going to list its scale, best to leave that alone. Doing so would most definitely max out my word count, and there are more poignant points to make in describing my meeting with Lawrence. But what is important here is his love of family.

The basis of his life outlook, his family heritage as set forth by past generations, “Life is about humility, listening to your mind and then having the courage to act on your thoughts. Whatever your mind tells you, you can accomplish. Just be yourself, put it out there, and don’t be afraid.”

And afraid Lawrence is not, He tells me of times of living in treacherous areas and never feeling in danger. “No one bothered me and many helped me out.” I never judged and looked for the good in all people. That alone kept me safe.”

As we commute our dialogue is open, soulful and unified in our desire to know the world around us. Topics like, the importance of not placing judgement, accountability, sin, forgiveness and death. All of which are condensed into one conclusion as described by Lawrence, “If you only look at someone as they are on the outside, you will never hear their story.”

We arrive at our destination, and with conversation still alive, decide to park to continue talking. The topic deepens a little, we share of the loss of our loved ones and, again, link it to the lessons learned from the experience. We agree that there is nothing to fear in death. The only thing to fear is not using life for the right reasons. In the words of Lawrence, “There are so many things you can do, and there is just not enough time to take it in.”

I know, in his statement of fear, he is not referring to the materialistic when he tells me, “You don’t have to have a lot of money, all you need to do is open your eyes, set your mind and relax. There is no need to stress, you’ll figure it out. Stress will kill you and divide you from the world and the people around you.”

Something tells me to ask a new question. After so many days of my own thoughts of why I meet the people I find. I decide to turn the card in asking Lawrence this question: “Why do you think we met this evening?”

He pauses, “Meetings like this should constantly happen. The problem is that not enough people think about the right things. Life is not about ego or power, it’s about humility, listening and honest actions. If more people would think about each other, We would all experience meetings like this.”

What Lawrence is talking about is what he calls, “Atmosphere” Meaning, “What you put out is what returns to you.”

He is talking about what I call, “The Voice.”

We’ve explored it heavily in 365. Many agree with its title, others have their own vernacular for it. But one aspect is common. Like attracts like, and there is a higher power guiding us all. And those who listen are ultimately rewarded. Not necessarily in riches, in health or in status, but in peace.

Lawrence’s future is bright.
“I’m engaged, have a baby on the way, and one day will be helping kids with my own children’s center. I’ve got a lot of life to share and the experience to help children make the right choices.”

He leaves us this quote: “Listen, We are blessed in this world.”

Lawrence, Keep listening!

Last night I promised you a continued story as I briefly introduced you to John. A young man of few words, but what he does say is impactful, “Cherish your family.”

Yes I meet more than John last evening, I am also introduced to his uncle Gabriel (AKA, Bob), who manages the Christmas Tree lot where, every holiday season, the two of them work side by side with their entire family.

As of that moment, something told me that Gabriel had greatness to share. Even then, he was willing to interview, but was more intent on having the chance to clean up a little before being photographed photograph. It was late, and seeing that he had been spraying flock on trees all day, and not feeling quite dressed to be photographed, I obliged.

So here we are in today’s daylight and I’m glad we scheduled this time.

Bob, I hope you are cool with what I am about to title you, it’s s a bold mantle to place. But after spending an evening, and a morning chatting, hearing of your perspectives on fellow-man, the way you hold your family together, and your opinion of the world, there is one personage that comes to my mind, “The Angel Gabriel,” and Bob, I’m happy to say, “You personify him.”

Readers, this entry may seem as if it is written as a personal note to Bob (Angel Gabriel). Please forgive me if it appears too campy.

I really don’t fully know why I’m authoring this entry in this manner, it just strikes me as appropriate, so I’m going to go with it. One thing I am beginning to learn as a blogger, write with your intuition, and that is exactly what I am doing tonight. Hope the experiment works out for all of us. Let me know?

Gabriel, you shared so many gems in our conversation. Life experiences that I can identify with, and many that I can not come close to comprehending.

You patriotism is awe-inspiring, 3 terms in Afghanistan, “remarkable.” The stories you share of the people, and the impact of seeing their gratitude for you, and your fellow servicemen, opens my eyes to the courage and compassion of those who selflessly put their lives on the line to serve mankind. I’ll not take my freedoms for granted.

You speak of your pride for your country and of your love for society. For that I am grateful and, like you, my faith in mankind grows.

There are a lot of good people out there, and in your contribution to 365, you help in bringing us all together.

Your sentiment, “Be good to each other, we’re not here that long,” strikes at the core of my thoughts on mortality, and how fast time really moves. This is a good thing to ponder, and I ask myself this question, “Exactly what am I doing each day, and what are my priorities?”

You say, “Treat every day like it is Christmas. Be comfortable with life, and just live, that’s all.”

Bob, you are the benchmark for peaceful and compassionate living.

When you tell me of your priorities: “Loyalty to Wife, Country, Family, Friends and of your commitment to simply do the right thing. I am thankful to call you a friend.

“I’ll never turn my back on anyone.” You share, and I believe you.

You tell me of your father’s example, “He would help anyone, he was a great man.” It is obvious you are following in his footsteps.

You pray to God, “Have faith in mankind,” when many pray for themselves, and I know your prayers are heard.

Bob, you are a good man. One for us all to model our lives after.

Yes, after writing this entry, I still have to stand strong in my title for you, The Angel Gabriel.

And for you Christmas Tree shoppers:
If you want to go to the friendliest family managed lot in the city, Check out Bob’s lot. Bennett’s Best Christmas Trees, Corner of Victory and Owensmouth. Tell them Richard sent you.

Also, Bob is one heck of an artist, having perfected methods of creating flock magic. He does not just spray white, he creates real life snow and color.

“Treat every day like it is Christmas.” Thanks Bob, I’ll do my best.

Definitely the shortest entry to date. Why? I’ve been asked to return tomorrow. And from what I’ve found out so far. A follow-up visit is well worth while. I’ll be back with the full story mañana.

For now we’ll keep it sweet and simple with one note of wisdom from John.

“Cherish your family!”

Great words to hear as we enter the holiday season.

Thanks John!

OK, you guys are in my life now. 80 days of 365 behind us. You have been with me through dark hostels, airports, Hawaiian tourist traps, edgy laundromats, football fields and rainy nights in naming a few. We’ve had a few laughs, shed a few tears and survived a few scary moments with people of all types. Today you get to hang with me on family business. As I said yesterday, we’re doing home improvement.

You have to know that I spend on average 2 to 4 hours a day on 365, weekday to weekend. Whether it is a busy work schedule, or a recovery weekend, I slack not. So today with a big list of household improvements still in progress, I hope for an easy find of a 365 neighbor. Yes, neighbor, thinking a quick walk around the block will easily run me into someone who would like to join us.

Sadly, I’m proven wrong, and am blown away by a record set of rejections I get today. Turns out to not be such a “beautiful day in my neighborhood.” I’m thinking that perhaps, my wardrobe, shirt and tie (from my church morning), is positioning me to look too much like a sales person. But whatever it is. I’m 15 rejections in, and zero takers. A terrible start.

Licking my wounds, I give up and return to my Mr. Fix It tasks, not sure how the night is going to play out. Even start to have an “is this the end of 365 moment.” I hate it when those enter my mind.

I promise, I’ll not throw in the towel. Too much invested and too many followers. Like I’ve said, “365 is part of me.”

Fate falls in my lap when I run out of Liquid Nail. Amazing stuff for gluing shims to hang peg board. For you contractors, I know? In most cases one would use nails. But I live in a house the was constructed by traveling jugglers, and it seems they forgot to space the studs at 16 inch spacing. So glue it is for me.

However the jugglers have led me to good fortune in sending me to Lowe’s, where I thankfully meet my 365 friends for the evening.

I’m hanging in the adhesive section, and to the left of me is the coolest couple, seems it’s not only I who am deep in home upgrades. They are checking out a shelving unit at the end cap of the aisle. I want to approach them, but there is something really creepy about some dude asking to photograph you as you are in the midst of shopping. With a pit in my stomach and the thought of a 365 all nighter looming, I pass on approaching them. The last thing I want to do is become a menacing stalker.

Well, at least I have the right glue for my home project, and for the moment, this knowledge consoles me in distracting my mind from what looks like the approaching of a no sleep night.

I hit the check out stand, and wouldn’t you know it, right in front of me, the couple from aforementioned adhesive isle.

What the heck, I’m here, they are here. I extend a 365 invite. They accept and release me to a normal nights schedule.

My thanks are extended to my new co-home improvement friends, Julius and Kerri. Two of the friendliest humans around.

It’s sort of a deja-vu situation. How’s that? Talking to them reminds me of the relationship I have with my wife. Their candor is precious and it’s refreshing to watch the fun harassing they give each other. Together for twelve years, Julius and Kerri are mind linked. It is apparent in the respect they share for one another and the quick shorthand they display in responding to my questions.

They are a great couple. We keep our interview short and sweet. After all we are all knee-deep in home fix its and the day is running out.

There is no way to speak for either of them, they are a single unit, something very nice to see in this age of disposable relationships. So much in synch that their answers to my standard questions are unified.

Julius starts with a Bobby McFerrin lyric, “Don’t worry, be happy.” A key phrase that I can see in the glimmer of their eyes. Don’t worry, be happy, obviously a life motivator that keeps these two moving forward. I know? I’m making a lot of assumptions, but I’m just calling it as I see it, and I see no worries, just happy. What a great example these guys set.

Both talk of dreams and looking toward the future. A topic that has become the backbone of many of the people we have spoken to thus far. Sort of tells us something good about our current society, doesn’t it?

I’ve literally interviewed over one hundred people to date. There are great people all around, all wanting the same thing, to evolve with hope.

“Don’t worry, be happy” A challenge to follow your heart, to not look back, but to progress. Permission to, without pause, live life the way you want, to go forward without regret and to be content in your progress. No matter what happens.

Julius adds this to the mix, “And try not to stress.” Easier said than done, but duly noted. One this is certain though, you cannot be too scared to try.

“It’s never too late to do what you want,” Kerri kicks in. Another statement that has become staple to 365, and one that I never tire of hearing. There are so many of us who are buried in our dreams. Every time I commune with another who is still dredging forward with faith of dream, it reconfirms my convictions, and I hope yours. We’ve heard it stated from those in the darkest of places and those at the top of their game. Dream and aspire for what brings you joy. It’s not about a focus on greatness, but rather on self-honesty to go forth in what is important to you.

Of dreams for the future, again Julius and Kerri are unified.

“It’s not about what we inspire to be, It’s more about thinking of where we want to be at that point.” And what is that? I ask.

They answer, “That we can say, we did all that we dreamed to do, or at least tried. And we’re sure we will be content and satisfied with life if we can say that.”

Julius, Kerri, Thanks for the booster shot.

May all you dreams come true.

Readers, I’m getting some sleep tonight. Finished my entry at 11:34pm. Woo Hoo! early night.