photography

“Don’t take life too seriously… just freak out… dance… and sing…”
…and, do what you want before you become what you are told.” —Heather

We have to learn to shake off society. There are always going to be battles, the world is just that way. But it will always give some as you loose some. Education is the core to what future we are all left with.

People have a lot of shame for following what they want, and most of our baggage is carried from our childhoods.

I’d like to see a world where people actually learn things rather than be crammed into classrooms and having standards forced on them.”

Sound cliché or radical? Or inspired or forward thinking?

I’ll leave that answer up to you in considering the above words of today’s stranger, young artisan of great wisdom, Heather.

…and to give us more grounds for contemplation, I give you a few links to the works of Sir Ken Robinson, a very contemporary conformer of today’s flawed educational systems. My opinion, Heather and he are on the right path.

You must view this very entertaining and enlightening presentation by Sir Robinson – Changing Education Paradigms (the audio at the end is suppressed, makes me think of conspiracy theories as to why): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDZFcDGpL4U

Also here is a link to his website: http://sirkenrobinson.com/skr

Heather and I run into each other at a cool little burb in Venice, California.

Excuse me, run into her is an understatement… I am drawn to her.

Here I am on the street of Abbott Kenney. A gathering place for both local and nomadic travelers from around the globe. To the right of me I hear the chatter of German tourists, behind me is a group of resident Rasta bikers; and, ahead are persons of unimaginable diversity. Yet, as I pass by a quaint little corner coffee-house, I spy Heather, paper and supplies in hand, as she approaches its doors.

At first glance, I am captivated by her apparent ease of self. And being further intrigued to meet another artist I introduce myself.

Immediately Heather’s charm and free spirit captures me, and after a short twenty minutes of curbside conversation I am proud to call friend.

Heather is a people magnet, drawing hello’s and brief conversations from many who pass by us as we sit on the sidewalk chatting away.

“You have a lot of friends,” I comment.

With infectious smile she brings me up to speed, “That’s the way it is here, we are a community, and when you live here you get to know a lot of people.”

Even though Heather is infectiously optimistic, she does take a bit of time to express a few of her observations towards the pros and cons of capitalism. Focusing on the problems of flawed healthcare and the quality of our food system. She states, “Even the USDA is not organic, and our healthcare system suppresses things and does not treat illness. It’s the time/money thing. Too much is driven by greed and not concern for the public.”

Heather goes on to brighter topics, things like the importance of personal integrity, education and the need for, in Heather’s words, “More communication, less television screens.”

“I’d like to see a future where education is more accessible and affordable, and a people who have a greater appreciation for each other, art and nostalgia.”

Being an artist, and businessman myself, and with the support of Sir Robinson’s instruct, might I suggest that art is not just the works of imagination, but also the works of intellect.

Sir Robinson likens it to thought processes that can be applied to any discipline, regardless of the trade or position. With the aid of his findings may I propose this, “Whether CEO or street artist, those who are in touch with their imaginative selves are more likely to be receptive to fresh ideas, more likely to collaborate well with others and have the self-esteem to listen to their own inspirations in moving forward.”

Bur sadly, as stated by Heather, “People have a lot of shame for following what they want.”

I call it the opinion filter. Defined, “The laws of humility states that we should acknowledge the thoughts of others, and do all that we can to not harm another, but we need to listen to our own minds in finalizing any objective, and grow the tenacity to constantly practice the skills of dismissing any destructive input. That through applied education (not controlled, like learning for the test scores, see Sir Robinson’s video), trial, error and successes; true and full fulfillment of our inspired self can occur. It’s not an easy thing to do and requires great practice and discipline. And if achieved while supporting others in the same quest, we give ourselves license to own our perspectives to the fullest. In doing so we can inspire ourselves to achieve that which brings balance and happiness to our lives, and hopefully the community. From there we may obtain a greater peace of character in wholly owning that who we are, good and bad.”

And with the aid of Heather and Sir Robinson, we are given advice and studied methods of doing so.

Heather is very hopeful when speaking of what is ahead for us, “There will be an awakening of our higher conscientiousness.”

Sure it’s cliché, but how many times have we heard our 365 friends tell us to follow our dreams.

Cliché or not, what is important is that we allow ourselves to progress as we are inspired to do so.

Sir Robinson speaks of a 98% genius score in a study of 1500 kindergarten students, and of the staggering decrease of that percentage over a ten-year period.

Startling evidence as to the actual manifestation of the dream, and a propelling argument to rethink our perspectives on learning, personal ability, and in managing the bombardment of external influences that strike us all each and every day.

Talk soon my good friends,

Richard

Door to door sales is a tough business, and I’ll be the first to confess that every time the bell sounds an unannounced chime, my heart rate rises a beat or two. Especially when I am deeply engrossed in a task or enjoying hard to find personal time.

So today when at the worst possible moment the doorbell is directed to speak, I pause hastily, “Who can that be!!”

I’m a touch tired, almost done with my day and am hanging on tightly to the glimmer of an hour or so of unadulterated mind zero time. Ah… the beauty of that.

And now my Zen has been broken, my workflow has been compromised and worse yet, I’m in a sleep deprived and overdramatic mood. Basically, I’m not really feeling that sociable.

“What!? Are we hearing that Mr. chin up and eyes open to the world is human…. No way! We thought he was just a hopeless romantic of some sort.”

“Surprise, I’m in a pissy mood and that blended with day two of accelerated day syndrome, and I am less than receptive to any solicitation.”

To the door I go, already thinking, “I don’t need any candy, my truck is not for sale, and my carpet is clean!”

As my inconvenience shifts to utter frustration, I catch myself, “’Richard, how can you stand tall in proclaiming, ‘Everyone is of worth,’ and approach your front door with the attitude you are sporting.’”

I check myself, calm my pre-conceptions as to who is outside and prepare myself for civility, “There is a fellow human out there. Probably just as concerned for his livelihood as I.”

I swing the door open, and with a smiling “Hello, can I help you?” I open my ears to receive whatever this stranger has to say, and before I know it, I find myself connected in welcome conversation with the Greener California dude, my new friend Brion.

We talk of the environment and the need for smarter conservation of our resources. “Really Richard, you have been suckered.”

I will admit, by the looks of the trim of my house, I most likely have been profiled, but that is OK. We are in the middle of a repaint of our exterior and re-insulation of our attic, and have begun the laborious process of cost estimating improvements. So to have someone at my door with painting and insulation services is really not that tiresome.

Brion is very brief and professional, we set an appointment for an estimator to stop by, and talk casually, I tell him of 365 and invite him to participate. Funny, just ten minutes prior to his ring, and in the weary frame of mind I have been carrying, the idea of a long search for a friend was wavering my 365 motivation.

Sure, Brion is selling product and service, but in another way he has saved me from my own negativity.

Brion unprompted, and I’m telling you, without any coaching from me, gives this council. “Think before you act. A lot of people don’t do that these days. Even for good opportunity.”

No way, is he some kind of psychic that tapped into my very pre-judgmental and reactive self of only a few minutes past.

I’m sure he is not, and that our meeting is coincidental, but the experience does cause me to reflect. “What is more important? To control my timeline, or to control my per-conceptions of those around me?”

I won’t answer that, I’ll just leave it hanging for all of our contemplation.

Brion is working, so I cut to the chase in throwing the bombshell question regarding what’s to come.

“Wow!” Brion reacts, “Who knows? That is a huge question and very difficult to answer on the spot.”

He thinks for a moment, “I like the idea of electric vehicles and smarter use of our natural resources. I’m for anything that will create healthier ways to conserve energy and keeps the planet healthy. If we can just find smarter ways to get around, that alone would help the planet.”

Brion, we appreciate your advocacy. Saturday we’ll talk of tax credits and rebates (yep, I scheduled an estimate).

Monday’s are nuts sometimes, I wake up at 5:00am with all intentions of completing the list of to-do’s carried over from Friday.

And boy has it been an accelerated day. Don’t read me wrong; this is not a complaint, just an observation and my motivation to conduct a late day priority check with it being the beginning of a very busy week.

I’m sure you’ve experienced the accelerated day syndrome… You know them, days where the clock, through some mysterious act of physics, moves as if attempting to mock your organizational skills while confusing your head concerning the true duration of an hour.

What…! Five minutes ago, it was 2:00pm, how in the sake of all that is wholly can it suddenly be 5:00pm…? Am I loosing my mind…! or does it just take that long for me to do __________________________? You fill in the blank.

Why this phenomenon occurs…? I know not? Maybe its age, could be due to deep focus of task, or possibly the distractions of phone, email bings or door knocks. But whatever it is… today is the day the mystery of time suck has visited my abode.

But in the eye of the minute storm, I manage to find a fifteen-minute window of still waters.

Here I am, corner of Sherman Way and Remmet. And no… I’m not walking the streets selling my wares. I’m on my way to pick up my daughter from her acting class at a nearby studio. With the cost of fuel at over $4.00, I can afford a little shoe tread wear. Plus I need to work off my sitting at the desk belly bulge.

Can’t help it, I love food, and the mixture of a day of computer time (retouching an assignment that I am delivering today), and a cupboard full of microwavable delights, my taste buds are in full gear.

Five minutes down, ten minutes of time left, and with my solitary stroll close to an end, I encounter the sweet and wafting aroma of a savory stir fry carrying itself under my over stimulated nerves of food consumption.

Where is this bouquet of culinary temptation emanating from, I explore… and in my visual excavation of the storefronts I detect the source of my aromatic seducer.

Who doesn’t love their secret hole in the wall restaurants? And today I think I have found a new off the beaten path haunt, a funky little neon faced Vietnamese eatery on the curbside of Sherman Way, just East of Remmet.

I inspect the rating, “A”… that’s good in my book. And as examine the photo menus in the window, a restaurant patron exits to check his parking meter.

I can’t resist, “How is the food,” I inquire.

The guy glows as if I have found his dining nirvana, “Its really good and cheap, and I come here four or five time a month.” He emits.

We chat food for a while, and what the heck, I’ve found a new place to eat and a stranger who shares in my passion for hidden dive food, why not invite him to be a 365 friend. I ask the questions?

And today we get a first, a personally written set of short responses from our friend of the day, Gavin.

As we begin our interview, the door of the restaurant opens and out comes a waitress caring Gavin’s take away order. Plus, in five minutes I must pick up my daughter, so we are concise in our conversation. Still, even though our chat is brief, Gavin writes us words to live by and to consider or destiny.

Per wisdom, Gavin quotes William Butler Yeates.

Regarding the future of humanity, he has an optimistic point of view. Yet as optimistic as it is, there is a dark side to Gavin’s predictions; predictions that he has first hand knowledge, working at a premier health insurer, Blue Cross / Blue Shield.

And for those of you who are enraged by the insanely unfair increase of coverage over the last few months, take note and do not attack Gavin.

He brings me up to speed when I tell him of my dissatisfaction with the rate hikes of my policy.

“That is Anthem Blue Cross, I work for Blue Cross / Blue Shield. We are separate companies, with our own policies. My job is to help people, and that is what I like about what I do.”

I’ve now got three minutes left before my girl is ready for pick up, and with Gavin wanting to enjoy a hot meal, we bid farewell.

Gavin, thank you for your street time, a pleasure speaking with you.

The last place on earth you will find me is hanging out at a cyber café. The mere thought of vicarious activity in a room full of dissociated people is just a bit too disengaged for me.

Sure, technology is here to stay, and even I am happily embracing its reach and ability to throw messages to the masses.

And one would be living in a cocoon to say that the world of new media, streaming video and social portals has not irreversibly changed our social culture.

The planet gets smaller year by year, that’s a good thing, and again we need to give much credit to the ever-expanding technology that has allowed us all the resources to connect on a range as broad as our imaginations and tenacity will carry us.

“Yes!” I proclaim… The information stream is a good thing, and necessary in today’s racing and imploding society. This is a fact that I undeniably admit, Blogs, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and the immense list of URL’s brings us closer and provides us with whatever we are looking for at the click of a mouse of the touch of a screen.

But take heed my friends in not forgetting the peace of human interaction, or the feel of air rushing into your face.

With all good thing come’s a price, and why do I worry about the price we may be paying in overindulging in the instant gratification and vicarious friendships that this new world is offering us?

My answer is simple… the loss of who we are and a numbing of our senses towards the real world around us.

I would have never thought in a million years that I would be producing writings like this. Yet, I will not delude you that my thoughts are not from my heart, but in saying this, I must more fully credit the greater part of my writings to the stories that are graced to me each and every day as I reach out in my face-to-face quest through following my 365 self-challenge, “Chin up and eyes open to the world around me.”

So this evening as I commute past the local cyber hot spot, I find myself magnetized by a small group of people standing in front of it’s LED illuminated doors. And even though the cyber gaming world in not my bag, my subconscious self commands me to veer to the right and reset my course to engage with these cyber strangers.

Up I walk, and with the typical 365 hello I find myself deep in conversation with a group of three diverse friends. Friends who vary in age from 19 to 40’s; friends who all share one common mission, to oversee the safety of their neighbor, a young woman who is deeply fixated on the cyber experience within the walls of the café.

For the sake of time and condensed word count, I’ll focus on one of these three uniquely different, yet bonded individuals, and at her request for privacy, we’ll call her anonymous dancer (“A” for short). Per the other two, we have agreed to speak at a later date.

“A” is a wonder of imagination and culture, a woman who understands compassion and commitment to helping her fellow human.

She tells me of how she met one of the two friends she is talking with. “I met him when he was homeless, my car had broken down and he had helped me push it to my house. He looked tired and I offered him my car for a sleeping quarters. From there we became friends, I remember bringing him eggs in the mornings.”

The story has a bright ending, the once homeless man is now employed, has an apartment and obviously the friendship has blossomed.

“A” does not step foot in the cyber café, like I said… her presence this evening is that of a protector. The night is a little chilly, and I have no idea of how long she has been watching out for her young friend inside. That alone gives me insight into her perspective on how she respects the people in her community.

Our conversation is deep and ranges from concern to the events in the Middle East to the economy, to her history in the arts (a profession dancer who has performed on New York’s stage) and the concerns of what the cyber world is doing to our culture.

With an infectious energy she decrees, “Everyone should be dancing.”

In furthering her announcement, she lengthens its meaning. “We need to be walking the streets and meeting people, I see a time when, with the rising cost of fuel, more and more of us will be walking, Like in New York. That will be a good thing for society. To see each other eye to eye.”

Everyone should be dancing = everyone should be on their toes, not on their butts, glued to a vicarious life of backlit display.

We talk of not judging people at a surface level, and of the findings of 365.

“I like the way people are in New York, on the outside, it may seem that they don’t care, but on the inside they allow everyone to be who they are and they respect individuality.” “A” communicates.

I have to agree with her.

In her reference, we learn a lesson; she is not telling us that we have to be best friends with everyone. Not even that we have to associate with all. But she does charge us with this: Even if we are strangers, we can still give each other the same respects that we would expect to receive. Makes sense, non of us can say that all people truly know us at face value, so how can we place any label on others without justly knowing what is in their hearts and minds?

I’ve been chastened this evening, I can’t say that my views of the cyber café has been affected, but I can say this, it was wrong of me to make any assumptions as to the patrons of such an establishment. For if I had fully done so, and ignored my intuition to walk up this evening, I would have absolutely missed out on meeting a wonderful person.

“A”, thanks for your anonymous words!

Deep breath… We’ve made it to the half way point of 365. It’s been an exquisite adventure, one that has allowed us, for over six months to meet a marvelously diverse group of strangers. Strangers who are now friends in one way or the other.

We have heard from close to two hundred individuals, in whom many life philosophies have been revealed.

Some have had dark times or words to share, others light-hearted moments and in many we have developed a variety of common themes and through-line stories.

Selfishly, I must thank you for traveling with me in aiding the growth of my writing skills (over 160,000 words to date), and if you have been following from the beginning, you may have even noticed an improvement of my spelling. Yep, I get it now… surely… not surly.

I’ve platformed face to face with nearly eight hundred people, some loving 365 in allowing me to photograph them, and others chasing me off like the Bubonic Plague. Yet still, we roll forward in our hopes of forming a better understanding of humankind.

The meaning of unity has grown within my heart, and my respect for the worth of the individual has expanded to encompass all that I do.

I have now observed countless examples of the effects of the actions, or thoughts, of one single person. And have first hand felt of both the negative and uplifting results of mingling with society.

The power any individual yields is immense. If harnessed for the positive, it can change lives and be a powerful contributor towards to betterment of humanity. However, if faltered by judgment, greed, deceit or any number of the admonitions our friends of the last 184 days have departed upon us, one can also stop the clock of positive progression of man and planet.

My life and career will never be the same, and I have 365 to credit for the new perspective I now wear on my shirtsleeve, “We really are in this thing together.”

And within us all lies the potential for greatness, for self, for community and for (I know this is a huge claim) for mankind.

“Thanks Richard, another life gospel by Richard moment, but what in the world does it have to do with the group photo, and the words.”

In a way maybe I have cheated a little today, yet deep down I think I am legit.

From time to time I am called upon by educational and other institutions to present or lecture on artistic craft and professional development; in doing I have always soapboxed for self-honesty, and through sharing methods of creative development and balanced life perspective, I hope I have shed some light as to the life of an artistic mind.

So to be visited today by the photo department of Brigham Young University, gives me first call to adapt my 365 findings to a usual and rehearsed presentation. And you know what? Nothing is the same anymore!

For two hours I find myself center stage in interacting with twenty unknown faces, all of whom I am positive have twenty unique stories.

Some are engaged… some are distant (makes sense, they have been traveling and visiting other photographers for two days, and I am the last of the schedule).

We talk of history and business, but when we hit the 365 stride, magic happens (well at least in my mind… if any of you BYU friends are reading this, let me know if I am off base?)

I tell of Slava, my first friend, and the experience that drove me to start 365 along with the outcome in how it has affected both my personal life and professional position.

The biggest take away for all of us, as I sing like a broken record, “We are all unique, have our own point-of-view and if we have the courage to listen to it, and to follow it, then we can find our full potential.”

That blended with a healthy respect for the world, and the people around us, is key to self-development and the conquering of what I call, “The illness of bitterness.”

An illness that once contracted, has the terrible power to blur not only vision, but mind, spirit and body.

We conclude our time together, and as I prepare my camera bag for a 365 venture, it hits me that these fine young men and women are absolute strangers. But how in heaven can I fairly interview such a large group in what I feel can take no longer than twenty minutes (they are hungry, tired, and I am sure ready to hear another voice other than mine).

Ah, I get a brainstorm! Just like the new years challenge, allow them to write one word that answers either of my questions. I give no direction, and take only one frame of each new friend. Want to keep it really honest.

Sure, they are snap shots, yet the more I look at them, the more I can truly see the depth and character of each individual, and amazing they all are.

For your reference, here is a reminder of the questions.

Question One:
“If you could give the people of the world any advice, council or wisdom, what would you say?”

Question Two:
“Looking towards the future, where would you like to see the people of the world, or the planet, and/or what do you predict the world will be like?”

Hope you enjoyed…Talk tomorrow my friends.

7:00pm Friday night, the streets are full of people enjoying an endless choice of catering trucks, a typical end of week in Granada Hills, with the gathering of the best of the best mobile eateries. I’ve been here several times and every time I attend, enjoy the great food and company in meeting a stranger turned friend.

I arrive with expectations of again meeting a friend on the street, but as I walk, a dry feeling engulfs me, swaying me away from wanting to approach anyone on the sidewalk. What does keep nagging at me is this, “Go to the Barber shop you passed on that side street where you parked your car.”

I ignore the prompting for some time, reasoning with myself, “You have committed to meeting someone on the boulevard,” and the more I walk the louder the voice gets, “Go to the barber shop!”

It’s close to 8:00pm now, I’ve aimlessly wandered for close to an hour, when I walk through the doors and enter the pool-tabled shop of Barber/Entrepreneur Jalon.

I am a little apprehensive to interrupt he and his last two clients of the day, but with welcoming attitudes they allow me into their circle, a circle of more than client/barber relationship, but a circle of true friendship.

Both have been coming to Jalon (Twitter) for years, “He is the best in The San Fernando Valley,” one says. “No,” the other exclaims, “He is the best barber in California.”

What makes Jarom so good at what his craft, again in the voice of his clients, “Precision, like Kobe!”

Yet there is more to Jalon than precision, his shop is a sanctuary the friendship and I have found myself amidst friends in what feels like a living room conversation.

Jalon sets the tone, and upon his suggestion for us, I realize why.

“This may sound cliché, but we should all follow the golden rule.” He begins as he works on an intricate cut on one of his clients… I mean friends.

Sure we have heard many talk of the Golden Rule, yet this is the first time I have been in an environment that radiates its values.

It is a universal rule that has been expressed to me by just about every kind of person you can think of. And this has driven me to do a little research:

From the scriptures of the Bahá’í Faith:
“Blessed is he who preferreth his brother before himself. —Bahá’u’lláh

Beware lest ye harm any soul, or make any heart to sorrow; lest ye wound any man with your words, be he known to you or a stranger, be he friend or foe.” —`Abdu’l-Bahá

Buddha advises:
“Comparing oneself to others in such terms as “Just as I am so are they, just as they are so am I,” he should neither kill nor cause others to kill. —Sutta Nipata 705

One who, while himself seeking happiness, oppresses with violence other beings who also desire happiness, will not attain happiness hereafter. —Dhammapada 10. Violence”

Christian ethics:
“Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them” —Matthew 7:12

 “Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself” —Leviticus 19:18

 “But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God”.  —Leviticus 19:34”

Judaism:
“You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against your kinsfolk. Love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD.” —Leviticus 19:18

“The stranger who resides with you shall be to you as one of your citizens; you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I the LORD am your God.” —Leviticus 19:34

“’That which is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow. That is the whole Torah; the rest is the explanation; go and learn. —Talmud, Shabbat 31a, the ‘Great Principle’”

Islam:
“…and you should forgive And overlook: Do you not like God to forgive you? And Allah is The Merciful Forgiving.” —Qur’an (Surah 24, “The Light,” v. 22)”

“The most righteous person is the one who consents for other people what he consents for himself, and who dislikes for them what he dislikes for himself.”

Here is a link to a much fuller set of interpretations of the rule. A rather enlightening read.

Jalon is a man of compassion, who evidently holds strong to The Golden Rule in the way he treats his clients… oh again… I mean friends… or per The Golden Rule… “Neighbors.”

Neighbors that through my unannounced visit this evening, I am comfortable to call friends.

Jalon finishes the last haircut and even though quitting time from a long day has arrived, he graciously allows me some photo time.

I ask him of his advice for us, challenging him to think of both the present and of the world to come.

For the present, “Try to find some kind of a spiritual crutch, so when people are not around you can rely on, you have somewhere to turn.”

For what’s ahead, “I don’t think we are heading to too much good. There is too much inflation, and the way things are going, it looks like the government will be running things. I’m not sure if I want to be there.”

Two very sobering outlooks, both of which we can choose either to ignore or to do what we can in contributing to a better future.

Let us all be that crutch Jalon speaks of; that in our own way, we magnify what has been brought to us by so many of our 365 friends, that same Golden Rule.

It close to 8:30pm, we are all feeling a little spent and with a teamsmanship like hug, Jalon and I part our ways.

Talk tomorrow, my friends.

For some reason, as I write of today’s friend, I can’t purge the reference of Charles Lutwidge Dodgson’s (pseudonym Lewis Carroll) classic novel, Alice In Wonderland.

I’m sure you know the story, and as I reflect on how to acquaint you with my new friend, one character keeps appearing in my mind, that of the Hookah smoking oracle, The Caterpillar.

No he is not a Hookah smoker, nor does he speak in riddles, or exploit any of his wisdom with any form of rudeness. Yet in addressing us, he is deliberate, calm and introspectively aware… like an oracle.

His name is Irvin, a young man, who other than his zest for basketball and in developing his career as an architect, he is committed to passing on what he can.

“What is your definition of success?” I question.

In perfect oracle form, he pauses long and deep, then replies, “Success is being able to not only help yourself… but to help others.

Either you steer people the right way or help them open their eyes in taking a moment to focus on what they really want, and to help them get there before it’s too late.

And if there is something else they want to be, to help them to act before they waste time, money or opportunities.”

Irvin is only twenty-one, how does he gain such insight?

In his words, “My dad is from Central America, moved to the United States when he was twenty. His father abandoned his family when he was seven years old, and since then he has always been a hard worker. He had to, wanted a better life for his family and he has never given up.

Last year he had a brain aneurism at forty-eight and suffered a stroke that paralyzed his left leg. Now he walks… he never gives up.

He has always inspired me to wake up every day and do something. I have to admit that some days I so wake up and just want to have fun, then I think of my dad or other people in the same situation, or how hard my mom is working to support the family now that my dad can’t work anymore.”

Irvin is no martyr; he is an advocate for self-reflection and of positive action.

“I’m shy,” he tells me. But as I converse with Irvin, he slowly opens up and I see not an ounce of hesitation. I propose… Irvin is incredibly thoughtful.

From his example, might we think of how we react to those around us who are not the greatest orators or at the center of attention? The question, do we dismiss, before we inquire?

Irvin ponders throughout out interview, and after each pause he delivers humble counsel, “’I can’t give any advise of myself, but based on my experience with my family and friends, I’d say, ‘keep pushing and don’t give up. Opportunities show up if you keep pushing.’”

Yeah, we have heard similar words before… Keep pushing, Irvin claims.

Many may react, how much more can I push? Life is too difficult! It’s not fair!

But when you think of the case of Irvin’s father, who in many ways, had the deck of life cards stacked against him, it is evident that all is possible, and life becomes a matter of balanced perspective.

And that balanced perspective is what has been passed on to Irvin, and the genesis to my labeling him, oracle.

“People used to be a lot friendlier and less insecure.” Irvin tells me.

I’ve heard this line before, “People used to be a lot friendlier,” but Irvin give us an original interpretation by including the thought, “And less insecure.”

Again, an oracle’s reflection, and a reflection that we can all chew on. Life is faster than ever, and I am positive that it will only speed up with the passage of time.

Brings us to accountability in directing our behavior and brain waves. With a world moving faster than we can ourselves develop, how can we find our true selves?

Every day is a battle for quite mind share, and in Irvin’s paused thinking as he responds to my questions, I am re-reminded of a valuable lesson, “Think before you act, and act upon what you mind tells you is right. And in doing so, be strong enough to ignore any world influence that is contrary to your core beliefs of who you are.”

There is so much compassion for others in Irvin, Things like returning from Hawaii, where he was attending university, to help his youngest brother who was getting into trouble, and his current evening employment, not solely for himself and his education, but also to do his part in supporting the family.

Another pause, followed by wishes for the next generations, “I hope life goes in a good direction. There are a lot of good resources and opportunities… if people don’t get greedy.”

Greed? I agree, the mother of so much devastation.

After thirty minutes of conversation, Irvin unassumingly talks of his needs, “I like to be with people who are supportive and inspiring, and look out for me. You don’t want to be with people who put you in a bad position. I’ve been pretty lucky!”

What do the Muppets and Haman of the Old Testament have in common…?

Answer… The Jewish holiday Purim.

“How can that be, I’ve read The Book of Esther, and there a not puppets written of.”

Well leave it to the minds of two very creative Rabbi’s, an enthusiastic congregation and the talents of puppeteer Renee (a close family friend of mine) and you have a fun-filled night of family and worship at Shomrei Torah Synagogue where I find myself, along with my daughter (care of Renee’s invitation) to take part in a Purim celebration.

The service is addictively entertaining, and with Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and The Cookie Monster leading center stage in telling the story of The Book of Esther, all in attendance are enthralled.

The plot goes like this, “Esther belonged to God’s special people, the Jews. Esther and many other Jews lived in the land called Persia. Persia was a long way from their own land.

The king of Persia was angry with the queen and he sent her away. Then he searched for another wife who would be the new queen. He chose Esther.

One of the king’s chief officials, called Haman, hated the Jews and he plotted to destroy them. But Esther’s uncle Mordecai asked Esther to speak to the king to save the Jews. Although Esther was the queen, Mordecai was asking her to do a dangerous thing. People could not go to see the king if he had not invited them. But Esther did what Mordecai asked. The king was pleased with her and listened to her. The king gave to the evil Haman the punishment that Haman had wanted to give to the Jews.

The book of Esther does not mention the name of God. This is strange for a book that is in the Bible. Sometimes God seems to be silent. We might even think that he does not care about us. The writer of the book of Esther probably wanted his readers to realize that God is always in control. Although we cannot see God, he is always doing things in the world. Nobody can stop his plans. The events in the book of Esther show us that God is in control.”

“God is always in control,” a prefect background to capture the essence of today’s friend, the voice of Miss Piggy in this evening’s performance, the absolutely charming Linda.

As the Synagogue clears we grab a bench to sit and chat. Linda has a comfort about her and it makes sense that her light-hearted nature aided her in being part of the entertainment this evening. If you have ever performed you know it takes a certain letting go of mind and thought. The closest reference I can make is it’s like living in the moment, without obsession on the perceptions of others.

Linda speaks of her mind-set, “’My mother used to tell me, ‘Don’t worry until you have to.’”

Worry is a word that Linda does not possess in her vocabulary and it is evident in the ease of her countenance and the bond that she has with the congregation. In being with her, I am a passenger in her rapport with all those who she associates with, and it is apparent that Linda’s perspective is valued by all those who know her; now including myself.

Linda is full of hope and optimism, a difficult thing to have in these modern times.

“I see a time where the world will be at peace and the planet will survive. A world where people are going to be more tolerant of one another,” she proposes.

Her advice is simple, “Put yourself in the other person’s situation before you judge them, and always give all the benefit of the doubt.”

Not much else can I write; Linda has wrapped it up very well, wouldn’t you say.

Oh how about this, in tribute to our Muppet Friends…  “Ma Num A Na!”

Shameless Plug:
Linda is a specialist travel agent; her forte cruises. If the high seas are for you, here is her link: www.tickettocruise.com

A building side reading “Home of Pet Adoption Fund,” grabs my eyes as I drive an industrial area in-route to Home Depot to pick up cleaning solution for the urine my dogs have graced my home carpets with. Got to love them, it’s their house too, right?

And with pets on my mind, stopping to say hello just seems like the right thing to do. I flip a U-turn, and to the barks of welcoming canine, manage to squeeze into one of the last two remaining parking slips.

To the office I go, where again, I am greeted by the voice of more four-legged friends, all of who are asking for my attention. Looking at the clock I realize it’s 4:45pm, the room is full of adopting families and doors close at 5:00pm, it feels as if I have just ingratiated myself to a party without an invitation.

The room full of dog lovers and volunteers are all scurrying to feed, water and board countless dogs for an evenings rest, so much so that it is difficult to get a word in edgeways.

No one is rude, just very busy. I do my best to tell of 365, but every time I open my mouth, my introduction is muffled by two small guests in cages to my right; looks like I’m being upstaged, but in the end, and with ten minutes left until quitting time, the hard-working and dog loving Megan, shares a moment or two with us.

Our talk is very brief, but I later do a little on-line research and find out what really makes this place tick, and Megan is at the front of the quest in finding loving homes for the many homeless animals that she so apparently loves.

It appears that Megan gives countless volunteer hours of her life to helping place the pets that fill the cages, and runs, of Pet Adoption Fund, the largest non-profit, no-kill animal rescue organization in Southern California.

Animals that have been rescued and now sheltered until they find loving permanent homes, a huge task; and one that is staffed primarily by volunteers. Existing solely on donations the facility houses around 175 dogs and 75 cats, of all sizes, ages and breeds.

Since 1983, Pet Adoption Fund has cared for, rehabilitated, and found responsible and happy homes for thousands of pets, never rejecting the old, the disabled, or the socially challenged. And with a no-kill policy they are committed to providing shelter and care to all deserving yet less fortunate animals, many of whom may never get a second chance at a loving home.

As Megan and I have our brief chat, we are joined be other volunteers who are giving of their time to walk and play with the animals who are still looking to be adopted.

I get what they are doing; both of my dogs are rescued. And knowing there are so many sweet animals who need a home, I’ll never buy a pet again.

Like I said, Megan is hurried, the day has ended, and she is on her way to urgent care (seems she is coming down with what she thinks is strep throat). But although ill, Megan beams, “Always try to look at your glass a half full.”

“We have to think positive,” she smiles.

She is sick; dogs are barking to the left and to the right, and now she has found herself in front of the camera. If that is not looking at the glass half full, I don’t know what is.

“We need to take better care of our planet,” Megan expounds. I’m hoping we keep hearing this sentiment; it is one that I am always happy to listen too and to write of.

“I still see a lot of people littering and it drives me crazy. We need to be cleaner, it’s not that hard to pick up after ourselves and to recycle more. It would be great to one day see everyone driving more electric cars, even though they have their own environmental issues. Nothing is perfect, but we at least need to make better choices.”

The last of the Pet Adoption Fund residents have settled into their sleeping quarters and with a pleasant voice, Megan concludes her comments with this; “Don’t shop, adopt.”