photography

There is land in the center of the City of Angels and in it thrives a small tribe of the greatest diversity. There are but only three gates into its core and surrounding its inhabitants only a small wall protects it from the hustle of a rushing populous of over twelve million.

In it exists an artful people of magical accord, a people who all engage in a unified voice of acceptance and harmonized difference. A stunning culture that everyday celebrates the union of difference and shares an admiration for life’s trials.

Before it flows the concrete river of Etawanda, and life travelers pausing at its banks enter by invitation in escaping a hardened shoreline. Weary City of Angels citizens pass under its winged horse of steel that stands in flight as a crest to welcome all passing under the main gateway on its Eastern boarder.

A silent beat of a drum drives the heart of this hidden providence, protecting it from the ravages of pessimism and divides of culture ramped throughout the metropolis that engulfs it.

Its humble fortifications of concrete and wrought iron require no army to protect all who thrive within its walls. And never will be seen a king entering or emerging from its gates.

Those who visit its central court of stage are entertained to a feast of symphonic individuality and are captured by the silent rhythm of a modulating pulse of pop culture. And those who journey its cityscape or travel through its countryside of spray can color are infected by a heartbeat that cannot be ignored.

Welcome to the Village of Eclectia, and in the citizens of Das Bauhaus.

In traveling its dwellings I meet six of its inhabitants, and of each I ask the 365 questions.
Q1: What words of wisdom, advice or council do you have for my 365 followers?
Q2: Looking towards the future, what predictions do you have, or wishes you would like to share?

Citizen Will:
Q1: The three “P”s: Persistence, Promotion and Plugging.
Q2: There’s going to be WWIII in the next 10 years. The banks have taken over everything. It’s kind of’ like a Ponzi scheme that will escalate into war; it’s going to be a different kind of war, like a cyber-war.”

Citizen Joseph:
Q1: Think globally… Act locally. We are much more likely to have a sustainable result from 100 people giving 5% rather than 5 people giving 100%.
Q2: We can’t accurately predict exactly what will happen. But I can say the pace is getting too rapid. Technology and the Internet was unheard of 20 years ago, we have to be careful to not lose ourselves in it. I’m also concerned about over-population and the way we are educated on a global perspective. I think it is very important to educate people in third-world world countries, especially the women. And we need to embrace each other’s faiths and differences and agree to disagree.

Citizen Michael:
Q1: Step back from your life and look at the things that are of value to you, and realize whether or not, if you are making those things more prominent, or if you are letting the obstacles of the world deny you from expanding them.
Q2: Our species is at a crossroads, and it depends on us as to which way we go. Do we continue the trend of living our life with fear, or do we look beyond that and see the world with love rather than fear?

Citizen Mark:
Q1: There are two kinds of problems; those you can do something about, and those you cannot do anything about. Face the consequences, don’t quibble, just do it, and never take anything at face value.
Q2: 2025? It will be like either being back in the 1850s, or forward in the 2050s.

Citizen Connor:
Q1: Embrace the paradigm shift. The times are exciting, the energy is shifting and people know it. The antennas are picking it up and you can feel it. The possibilities are endless.
Q2: Continued liberation of everything, and there will be more examples of disclosure. There will be a giant boost in confidence and more and more people ready to accept the top being popped-off to a higher level of consciousness.

Citizen Harmony (daughter of landlord Don):
Q1: Make it new and make it fresh; a new perspective on every day.
Q2: I perceive the divide will be extreme. The trajectory I see is: the divides will collide and then they will rebuild.

Fascinating as all the citizens of city Das Bauhaus are, there are two topics that deeply touch my heart.

Harmony speaks of womanhood and the way modern culture, the media and fashion trends have worked to degrade how women are viewed, act and are treated in society, and how the perception of womanhood is skewed towards impossible standards. Having a daughter myself, the conversation is deep in my concerns in regards to the kind of world she will grow up in.

Harmony prompts us to accountability in pondering our perspectives, and responsibilities, as to how we respect women and ourselves.

She hopes for a future where women are looked upon with more dignity for who they are, not the way the media, fashion trends, and the misconceptions of the feminine role tell them how they should look, act or feel.

Joseph shares a similar point in his concern for women in third-world countries, but that is not why I am featuring him. My purpose in speaking of him is a chase for good Karma.

You see… Joseph is dedicated to his family. Seems he has a brother and a sister, both of whom are in foster care. Siblings he obviously loves enough to fight the fight for custody, an extremely long and costly battle, and one that has required him to work three jobs to support. He speaks with no malice, only a peaceful concern to reunite and a drive to do whatever he can to rebuild his family.

I write of this in requesting us all to take a moment of silence for Joseph and his family. And please forgive me if I am getting too new age with this request. But after experiencing so many Zen-like moments in my 365 travels, what the heck! A little good juju can’t hurt, can it?

Talk tomorrow, my friends.

Who says apartment living cannot be communal? And if there are any apartment living rules that demand this, then Don, the man behind Das Bauhaus, is breaking all the regulations.

First off, those who reside in one of the twenty-four units of Das Bauhaus are called guests.

Guests, not tenants, not renters or not even numbers, they are respected as unique individuals; and I have to credit this as one of the major reasons there is a long waiting list to get an apartment in the compound.

I intentionally call Das Bauhaus a compound for a purpose. To call it an apartment complex would be selling it short.

The place is a visual and cultural festival. Art is everywhere, and is constantly being updated by the talents of those who are guests within the compound walls. Walls and guests that echo the community spirit, and vision of community, that Don has spent a life nurturing.

“I became very active in community service over twenty years ago when a group of us started the first Northridge Community Council. We changed the way things were done. First we dropped the titles, replacing them with things like big kahuna, bean counter, etc. We even drafted our by laws to allow for dogs to vote and not cats… everyone knows cat’s cannot be trusted. We did great things, and were supported by a very aware and active community. We all went at it like Indians, with no one looking to become a Chief. It was all about vision!

Downtown could not stand it, they even offered us a fifty thousand dollar grant, but we did not take it. Didn’t need it, we were doing well with what we had, and we knew if we accepted the money, there would be strings attached.”

Don tells me of the works they did, from hosting huge fund-raising events at Das Bauhaus to creating a vivacious community service team who were, and continue to beautify, watch and keep the neighborhoods and streets clean and safe.

Here is a cool fact; to be a guest at Das Bauhaus it is required to provide proof of participation in a yearly community service. That alone is a confirmer of the character that lies within the people of its community.

And because of this community, I am forced to break my entry into two consecutive days… a first for 365. With this, today I’m telling you of Das Bauhaus creator Don, and tomorrow I’ll introduce you to his daughter and five guests that are a living tribute to the community.

In getting to know Don, he guides me on a walking tour of the facility, all the while receiving greetings from his guests… as I observed… community.

Don cheerfully engages with all who greet him, and as he does, I feel as if I am part of a connected family of diverse people, all of whom are in-lawed together by the gates of Das Bauhaus.

Stories of art and energy surround me, a courtyard stage to the front of me, an eclectic recreation room behind me, as well as a curiously magnetic dart boarding enclosure to my right (Don’s way of turning the electrical room into a functional socializing experience).

Das Bauhaus is a breeding ground for human unity and in it you can feel, and see, its contribution to modern culture and creativity.

Don takes me to the parking area. All around us are elaborate works of graffiti art, some of which is created by the hands of now established and respected artists.

“All of this is living and breathing,” Don explains.

“And it’s been really cool to watch it grow. I’ve seen some amazing things happen here.

We’ve had days when twenty or more graffiti artists have gathered to work together on a wall. It’s a blast to watch. Here is this rough-looking group of guys, sitting around and constructively critiquing the work. Where else can something like this happen? If they did it on the streets, they would be arrested, and here they form a proactive community. How cool is that!”

Don shows me another quirky perk, a welding areas, complete with tools. “I’ve got one girl living here that is an exceptional artist, she is now making a living with her welded sculptures.”

They guy truly cares for all who are guests and he does all that he can to help them evolve in their lives. We joke about his title, and he settles on, “I’m OK with being called the Landlord.”

In summarizing Das Bauhaus, Don has the perfect words, “It is a cocktail that is always evolving. We work to keep the energy moving, and are very careful in the guests we accept. This is a special place, and the chemistry of the people who live here influence it spirit for all of us.”

I’ve only scratched the surface in describing the visual feast of Das Bauhaus. A place that is the brainchild of our new friend Don, and an ever-evolving manifestation of the guests that call it home.

From the handcrafted mail area to the strange second level doors that were one in Madonna’s home and ever-changing display cases that greet all who enter it gates, Das Bauhaus is one of a kind.

With the sweat of his own hands Don has built a home for the eclectic. A huge think tank of cultural diversity and a sanctuary for the arts. Tomorrow I will introduce you to a few of his guests, but for now I’ll conclude with a sober side of Don’s concerns for society.

“I’m not feeling so hot about the future. I’ve lived through The Bay of Pigs, Castro, The Cold War and Vietnam, and I have to say, I’ve never seen things like they are now. I think we are in a lot of trouble.

I’m pro Israel; it is a great country and a testament to people who can survive in a fight for peace. We should all model their tenacity and concerns for society. The Middle East is messed up by the greed of misdirected religion and that in combination with the war for fossil fuel is breeding the fulfillment of what is to come. We need to stand up and do what is right, and we need politicians who are courageous enough to move us forward.”

Don, you are a man of action. Your history, deeds and the community you so selflessly support clarify this to us all.

My hope is that your hard work is not in vain, and by the fruits of your efforts, and your courage to speak out of times to come, that we all gain a glimpse into your vision.

A vision that I think I can accurately translate to this question.

Shall there come a day when we can push ourselves in choosing to see eye-to-eye, rather than, through misdirected acts or reactions, adopt the lower law of an eye-for-an-eye?

Don, thanks again, we’ll keep our eyes open.

Oh! One final note… Don departs one last word of wisdom, “Always… get and give receipts.”

We have to give him that, after all… he is a landlord.

I ask him for his council, “A random immortal movement requires something epic,” he replies in addressing the mission of 365.”

An immortal movement requiring something epic? That is a large title for me to swallow, but I take it as a compliment from our friend of the hour, Gonzo, Chameleon and Film Maker, K. Harrison Sweeney, as he begins his dialogue, or should I say monologue with us today.

I am not alone in meeting K. Harrison (I’m going to call him K. for short), with me is my long time friend Donna (not pictured). Having her participate in 365 is cause for joy, and her contribution to our conversation is welcomed by both K and myself. Group discussions are always so refreshing.

As we casually begin our conversation, K searches for a response to what he is calling and epic question, and as he does, Donna and I are captivated by the energy of a mind that does not stop. You see… K is a furry of imagination and improvisational skill.

“I’m in preproduction of my second Zombie film,” K propels. And I use the word propels very selectively.

In his description of his film we are entertained by an endless sense of humor in every aspect of K’s delivery and posture. K is a performer through and through and we all find ourselves immersed in a surreal mixture of real world issues and organic satire.

K has theater chops, I looked his bio up, Macbeth, Death of a Salesman, Romeo and Juliet and Fiddler on the Roof to name a few. Credits, that in addition to an endless lists of TV, film and commercials, further backs his credentials as he presses into the world of filmmaking.

Yet with a history of highly traditional roles, why Zombie films? I regret not asking K this question directly, but I think the answer lies in his eventual response in counseling us, “We have to dance with the mischief makers and learn exercise them!” he chuckles.

“It all in good fun,” and in this fun K has found a niche. Seems there is a gigantic culture of Zombie fans. And after a few minute in Google, I uncover a global audience of events and champions of the macabre who are eating the Zombie genre up. “Eating it up,”J, no pun intended.

K’s wit is at the core of his directorial decisions, and his intent is pure in working to produce films that are an extreme and silly escape from the reality of life, like I mentioned K is an entertainer.

And in an industry that has a reputation for crushing esteem and moral, K has managed to find a balance. In his captivating, I’m on stage form, he advises, “Do not put yourself in the presence of the demons.”

Demons…? A pretty deep and dark metaphor, and a simile that can be interpreted into all of our lives.

I view it this way. A demon is anything, situation or person who direct us in a path that diminishes self-respect and belittles or judges our worth without first obtaining a full understanding of the reasons for what we do, or who we are.

In the simplest terms, any external influence, or even self-reflected internal inspiration that makes us feel less than, or forces us to impose any negative on the will on others.

K’s smile is evident that he has managed to avoid the demons, and even though his films are raunchy, bloody and graphic, I checked out a trailer to his last film, “Undead Lovers,” there is a lightheartedness to them. Again a silly escape intended to entertain.

I ask K of his council for the future.

“’Funny you should ask me that question, I’m making a film right now for that very reason, ‘From the Trailer to the Grave,’  It speaks out about society. Things like environmentalism and racism.’”

“I grew up watching films like Mad Max and Indiana Jones, they are sagas where in every moment obstacles are overcome. That is what motivates me in my filmmaking.

I loved the Green Lantern comic book series and the way they used colors to represent virtues.”

K reflects on his childhood movie and comic influences in stating, “Every day of your life is a sequel that you are part of, and the more you embrace it, the more fun you will have.”

And using the Green Lantern as a guide, K expands on identifying the human experience. And as he does, I reflect on my outlook of life and how I manage my emotions.

For those of you who are not familiar with the emotions connected to the Green Lantern colors, here is a glossary a link in explaining its history.

Red is rage. Orange is avarice, Yellow is Fear, Green is will power, Blue is hope, Indigo is compassion, and Violet is Love. There is also Black which is Death, and is taking all the other colors to fight.

The history of the Green Lantern.

May we all have the Green to continue in Blue and to share as much Indigo as we can? And if we can stop Yellowing, in letting go of any Red, then possibly we can build a world with a lesser depth of Orange. It is up to us to choose. Do we Violet our neighbors as we Violet ourselves? I don’t know?

But I can say one thing… the smallest of acts goes a long way in starting the ball rolling in bettering our relationships?

K, a blast hanging with you. Good luck with your filming and thanks for the colors.

From a distance I see a man isolated on a bench beneath a tree, no one approaches him, or even resides near his proximity. At visual impression he is of great stature, and with his attention directed to literature in his hand, while engaged in a phone call, it leaves question as to his demeanor, or willingness, to even interface with those around him; sort of a conflict to the tone of our location, the interactive grounds of The Huntington Library, Museum and Gardens.

My wife also notices him, “Photograph him,” she directs me. I’ll admit, his presence intimidates me. But to not at least introduce myself would make me a hypocrite to my own 365 mission of “Chin up and eyes open to the world.”

I have no idea of what to expect as I wander to the shade in which my unknown friend has found privacy, and as he begins to stand up I reach out with a hello and invite to 365.

“I’m Richard” I share as I speak of 365. With a listening ear, followed with a smile, he replies, “Nice to meet you Richard, I’m Richard.”

My intimidation dissolves instantly and I find myself engaged in conversation with a very kind and polite individual. A man who originally I viewed as possibly unapproachable turns out to be a very compassionate and peace seeking human. Yet another lesson in looking past our conceptions in regards to the judgments we place on those around us. And today I am a partial offender in letting my fear distort my perspective of humanity.

I call Richard peace seeking. “I don’t believe in war and we have to stop it now,” he advises.

Richard’s beliefs are strong and he credits finding them to an experience he had at eighteen, “I read an article by Frank Church just before the Vietnam War broke out. That article changed my life and from then on I became a conscientious objector.”

It’s interesting how a man that I was very much intimidated by, is the exact opposite of my earlier perceptions. Richard wears a concern for life, liberty and the environment in his every word.

Per the planet, “We are in some deep Kimchi if we don’t do something fast!”

I get quite the education as Richard brings me up to speed on what is happening the to Earth’s atmosphere, and conditions that are leading to the acceleration of global warming. It has to do with the levels of CO₂ in the air, and the easiest way to bring you up to speed is to give you a link to an organization he supports, 350.org.

Here is the synopsis of the problem (as quoted at 350.org):
“350 parts per million is what many scientists, climate experts, and progressive national governments are now saying is the safe upper limit for CO₂ in our atmosphere.

Accelerating arctic warming and other early climate impacts have led scientists to conclude that we are already above the safe zone at our current 390ppm, and that unless we are able to rapidly return to below 350 ppm this century, we risk reaching tipping points and irreversible impacts such as the melting of the Greenland ice sheet and major methane releases from increased permafrost melt.”

Richard says, “We are in some deep Kimchi!

Everyday we get closer to the end. We need to see more planning for change, and we all have to opportunity to speak out,” he expands.

“I am a pacifist,” Richard calmly reveals, yet in stating it he directs no incrimination toward those serving at the fronts or enlisted in service. He even talks of the wars we face in everyday life and of civil rights.

What he does point his finger at are the political and big business endorsers of world conflict. And once again to support his reasoning, Richard provides us with a couple of interesting links:

Fellowship of the reconciliation (FOR)
FOR has been at the fronts of the fight for peace and freedom for over 100 years. They are a well-established organization with a history of conflict resolve.

The FOR Mission Statement
“FOR seeks to replace violence, war, racism and economic injustice with nonviolence, peace and justice. We are an interfaith organization committed to active nonviolence as a transforming way of life and as a means of radical change. We educate, train, build coalitions, and engage in nonviolent and compassionate actions locally, nationally, and globally.”

The FOR Vision Statement
“FOR envisions a world of justice, peace, and freedom. It is a revolutionary vision of a beloved community where differences are respected, conflicts are addressed nonviolently, oppressive structures are dismantled, and where people live in harmony with the earth, nurtured by diverse spiritual traditions that foster compassion, solidarity, and reconciliation.”

War Resisters League
“The War Resisters League has been resisting war ate home and war abroad since 1923. Today, as one of the leading radical voices in the antiwar movement, we challenge military recruitment and war profiteering, organize nonviolent direct actions, and offer on-the-ground tools to end the current war and all wars. The War Resisters League affirms that all war is a crime against humanity. We are determined not to support any kind of war, internationally or civil, and to strive nonviolently for the removal of the causes of war, including racism, sexism and all forms of human exploitation.”

In the end… it is up to us to decide which side of the fence we sit on in regards to warfare. In considering it’s purpose, I cannot ignore the blessing we have in America, and history tells of just wars, compassionately fought for freedom from oppression.

But on the other hand… we must question, “How many wars are wars for ultimate power?” The Hitler’s, Mussolini’s and Bin Laden’s, or the big business’ that so greedily profit at the expense of life, liberty and family?”

As per the planet, we all have the power to influence change. Even the smallest of acts can make the greatest of impact. That is… if we all do them.

Richard, we thank you for pointing our eyes at resolve.

And for the brave men and women who so willing risk life and limb in the fight for freedom. Freedom we all deserve. My you find yourself in just battles and thank you for your service or welcome home.

After last night’s quarter tank of fuel waste, I decide to walk my own backyard neighborhood, and to again give my friends at Cloud 9 Hookah Lounge a visit.

In the door I go and it’s instantly like a reunion, as I talk to Justin, “To Walk With Them As The Same.” We catch up a bit and he let’s me know of his enrollment in Hypnotherapy school and that he will be licensed in six months. It’s way cool to see someone following a purpose they feel deep inside. I know he will help many.

“How’s 365 going?” he asks.

I bring him up to speed, “Beyond my wildest dreams, the thing is really taking off and it is changing my life for the better. I’ve accepted that its purpose is greater than myself and I’m just following it wherever it takes me.”

In our conversation he introduces me to Karnnitha, a very chill lady who is hanging out with one of the owners of Cloud 9. I sit with them to exchange stories and soon Karnnitha agrees to share words with us.

I ask my questions, and her answers are well thought out and precise.

“Don’t let the little things push you away from what you want to do. Stay positive and things will work out,” she contributes.

“I’d like to one day see that the planet is OK, the economy in America better and a world at peace,” Karnnitha expands as we settle in to lengthening our conversation.

“What are you plans for your future?” I ask.

Her response impresses me to the core. You see, Karnnitha is a selfless giver, a rare and admirable quality for someone just barely twenty.

“I’m studying to be a dentist, and as soon as I finish my education, I intend to return to Cambodia, where I plan to help the poor and the sick, and more importantly, do all I can to stop sex trafficking.”

Sex trafficking, an epidemic blotch on the face of society and a hideous atrocity of the greatest magnitude towards humanity. I’ve run into so many people who are engaged or intent on entering the fight against the de-humanization and literal evil of the human trafficking industry. That’s right? Industry! Billions of dollars in scale! How sick is that!

Our conversation takes me back to all that I learned from Lucy O’Brian, “The Power Of One” eighty-one days ago and reaffirms my commitment to at least do all I can to raise the awareness of the dreadful impact the sex trade has on the lives of so many women, and horrible to say, innocent children.

Karnnitha’s life purpose is a tribute to her maturity, the depth of her compassion, and her commitment to help in the fight to abolish the perversions of the sex for sale industry.

And if we think we are safe in America, Karnnitha enlightens us, “It’s not just a problem in Cambodia, it a huge problem worldwide, and very profitable in the United States.”

Very profitable in the United States… Bounces like a confirming echo to the facts that Lucy shared with us. Findings that she knows first hand from her ten years in the fields of fighting the human trafficking war. And Karnnitha is at Lucy’s tail feathers in getting up to speed in her efforts to further the works of all those so anxiously engaged it the fight.

It’s a wonderful thing to meet a young woman with such advanced values, and I compliment Karnnitha on her maturity, her life perspective and her courage in stepping up to do her part in working for human rights and the basic dignity that all should be able to enjoy.

“It’s not all me,” Karnnitha credits, “My parents taught me to never judge, to accept people for who they are, to be caring, loving and to be giving. That is a big part of why I am who I am.”

On her arms is a series of Tattoos, all with meanings honoring her family and friends. She tells me of her siblings and the love and time she has dedicated to helping her brother who is inflicted with multiple illnesses. “I’ve had to grow up fast and I like my life right now,” Karnnitha pronounces.

My schooling carries on, feels like I’m getting a Master’s Degree in understanding. An understanding that no matter where we are in life, or whom we appear to be on the outside, the potential for greatness is inside of us all.

We really can’t judge a book by its cover. For tonight, in a cool little Hookah Lounge, and in the heart of a young woman who is seemingly chill, lies the compassionate of a great lion of human rights activism.

Karnnitha, bless you in all you do! You inspire us all.

“171 days at sea and still no sight of land,” the first mate says as the ship nears its last provisions. And even though the crew’s morale is low, the favoring currents and prevailing winds push the vessel on. Hope is, soon land will appear.

“Hey Richard, you are not a screenwriter, why the theatrics?”

I’m a visual thinker, and the ship at sea parable is the easiest way to express the emotion I face this evening after four hours of socializing with the world around me, and receiving zero interest from anyone to contribute to 365.

First a long drive, then a coffee-house visit, followed be more driving in seeking any form of inspiration. Even considered photographing my television set and calling it a stranger.

Yet, as my leg numbing drive arrives at its fullest height, a voice in my head points me back to a Ralphs Supermarket near my home.

“Why?” I mentally ask myself. “I’ve been there far too often, and usually am greeted with countless, ‘not interested’ responses.”

Gas is almost $5.00 a gallon and with the prospect of wasting way too much of it in aimless sailing, I succeed to my minds prompting and redirect my course to said Ralphs.

Now you have to picture the scene, it nights, the parking lot is dimly lit, an evening chill is setting in and there is this camera yielding dude stalking the parking lot. Would you stop to talk to him at 10:00pm while hurrying to get your weeks groceries? I’ll leave it at that.

Four rejections right off the bat; I’ve got only a few hours until the clock strikes twelve, and if it does, I’m painfully reset back to day one of 365. I’ve promised myself, and you, 365 consecutive days (with leap year, it’s even 366 days), and to miss one day is to blow the challenge.

Here I am, Sunday night, the streets are clearing and I’m starting to sweat bullets. I’m tired, stressed, miss my family, and really do want to respect the boundaries of what I assume is everyone’s desire to end their week.

I’m now bouncing from decline to decline; yet, as moved forward by my earlier mentioned emotional reference of the land seeking ship at sea, I sail forward.

It’s a difficult thing to keep morale up, but with the mission of 365 anchoring me, I cannot allow myself to scuttle the ship.

With a polite smile on his face, another unknown gentleman turns me down, “not tonight.”

No more counting Richard, just start asking everyone, I submit to whatever happens, happens, and at that moment, I turn to my right, seeing a very beautiful and healthy lady, packing a few bags of groceries into her car.

Yea, this is going to work, creepy dude with camera, single lady, at night, in a parking lot. Looks more like abduction to me. But, I’m trashed from the last four hours of wandering, and with a shaking voice, I approach her.

“Hello, My name is Richard, I’m a photographer, and I promise I’m not a creep. I live just around the corner, have a daughter, a wife and am working on a documentary project.”

I tell her, of how long I’ve been wandering this evening, and promise her I am not trying to guilt her into contributing. “I thought I’d just humble up and tell you what is going on with my project tonight,” I emote.

Krista is her name, and how wonderful she is. Without pause, she launches into a set of concerns that are magnificently in tune with the topics of the week; namely, the environment, free will and the perversions of political and corporate greed.

“Don’t get me wrong,” Krista starts, “I’m not bagging on religion, politics, or any right-wing agendas, but I am not happy with what is going on and suggest that everyone take a good look at what, and who they endorse or support.”

Krista is hailing on us all to be aware of the consequences resulting from the decisions of large money mongers, and requests that we take that into account in gauging our actions towards whom we support and how responsible we are in living our lives.

“What is sad,” she tells us with a resolve to her concern, “there is too much money at stake in large companies and political agendas, and yes, it is hard to compete with that… but we all need to do what we can.”

“Like what?”  I ask.

“Don’t get me started.” Krista responds as she jumps into a couple of grand topics, the environment and the FDA.

“Organic food, that such a joke, sure big corporate greed calls it organic Chicken, because they inject it with no hormones. But what the don’t say is what they feed to the Chickens. And what they feed to them is definitely not organic. So in the end, we are still eating food with hormones and chemicals in it.” Krista informs.

“And the chemicals we absorb? The FDA approves Aspartame as a sweetener and we eat it in things we don’t even realize contain it. It’s messing up our seed. I’m not talking about things like worrying about Cancer, it’s beyond Cancer, it’s all the hormones we are all-consuming. I am concerned about the future; the stuff that is going into our bodies is going to mutate us. I’m scared for how the kids of tomorrow will turn out.”

As we talk an SUV pulls in, “That’s my friend, I’m meeting him here for a few minute of business, I’m sure he has a lot to say,” Krista lets me know.

He pulls into the slip next to where we are parked and as he exits his truck, Krista introduces us, “Andy, want to answer a few questions for a blog this guy is doing?”

Without hesitation, Andy is in.

“Tell Andy the questions?” Krista asks.

In replying to advice for the world, Andy shares a point of view, “Organized religion will continue to keep the world in strife, and will eventually be the reason for our demise.”

An atomic bomb of an opening statement, but one that leads to a great conversation regarding the free will of man.

Andy seeds the conversation, “People believe in their families and their beliefs. That is a hard wall to get past.

Look at history, wars, genocide, whether tribal beliefs or cultural differences, it all ties into the retributions of political systems.

At one point I was OK with saying, do what you are going to do, but now I can’t say that anymore. It all affects us now.”

I express that I am active in an organized religion, and propose a counterpoint. One in which we see eye-to-eye. What I propose is a discussion on hypocrisy in posing a question, “Is it wholly the religion, or the acts of the men committing atrocities in the name of religion?”

We talk about this point for a while. Andy is open in his beliefs, “I’m an Agnostic Jew,” he shares. I totally respect his courage as we talk of the unity of man in respecting each other, regardless of religion.

“Corruption is corruption, and in the end I will always stand on the side that shows the most humility and throws the least blame.” I express the Andy.

We nod in agreement on this point. After a long evening of searching, I know why I end up only steps from my home, to have this discussion with Krista and Andy.

Both are evangelists for the freedom of mankind and spokespeople for the betterment of the planet.

My opinion, in the end regardless of faith, orientation, gender or creed, one aspect is universal, we need to look at each other as fellow humans and drop the focus on judging personal beliefs in growing to allow all to worship as they see fit, and to fight to facilitate that freedom.

In fairness to myself, I can’t say organized religion will continue to keep the world in strife, but I can warn that if followed without humility and true love for one another, it probably will be a part in our demise.

Andy states, “At one point I was OK with saying, do what you are going to do, but now I can’t say that anymore. It all affects us now.”

I understand Andy’s worry. It is based upon history, and the results of many a hypocrite. But leaning towards the silver lining of hope, may there come a time when, in our circle of influence, we can at least safely say, “Do as you believe.”

Perhaps then, we can get the critical masses to address other issues, like the planet, humanity and a peaceful future.

I know, “Richard, you are a hopeless optimist!”

I can live with that label, and humbly pass it on in sincerely wishing for others to adopt it. As hard a label as it is to tote, at the end of the day, and perhaps with the right momentum and perspective, we can all do our parts in influencing those around us to carry good works forward. We all have hope buried within. My wish is that we all find it. Good things do come from the smallest of gestures and I will not cease in my claim, the power of one is remarkable.

Krista, Andy, thank you both for your perspectives.

Pet lovers of the world unite in saying hello to Captain Morgan, the leader of today’s 365 brigade.

My daughter and I come across he and his human life guides, Diane and John, as we are enjoying an afternoon bike ride. I know, another tribute to the weather of California, February and it feels like spring. Well, you probably don’t have to worry about earthquakes or strange politics. So we all have our pros and cons in where we live, I guess.

My daughter is cute and one of the biggest 365 fans. And with that, I must accept her suggestions when it comes to meeting friends. Here we are, whipping around the neighborhood in two-wheeled bliss, when upon the audible call of the infamous Captain Morgan, my daughter say, “Dad! We have to talk to them.”

I oblige. “Hello, please forgive me if I am interrupting your walk, but my daughter told me I need to talk to you,” I say as I introduce ourselves in explaining 365.

Sort of feels like a vintage moment, a flashback to eras past. Times where neighbors rallied together on a daily basis, socializing on the street or yard side in bonding to happily know the people in the house next door.

Shamefully I have to admit, ten years in my home and I am only just now beginning to meet the people living in my neighborhood. Another partial motivator to our daily bike rides. Both my kid and I have learned to give our greeting to all that we pass, and it’s been incredible getting to know those I live close to on a new level.

I’m blown away at how much diversity there can be in the smallest of areas, and through getting to know my neighbors, I encourage you to do the same. I promise you will not regret the effort.

And as it turns out, my daughter is very inspired in asking me to approach, Diana, John and, of course, Captain Morgan.

We let Mr. Morgan go first in relieving himself of his barking, after all, he is the Captain, and upon his approving sniff, are granted audience with his entourage, the smiling and wonderfully warm-hearted Diane and John.

They speak as one, another sign of the warmth of their character and love for one another. Neither step on the others words and with charm, and well-synched responses, they listen and support each other with the greatest of peace. And in the fast paced culture of today, it is encouraging to be sharing time with a couple that is definitely on the same page in enjoying simple time together.

Diane urges us to smile for no reason. “Pay it forward,” she instructs, and looking at John she becomes a spokesperson, “We’d like to a world and a future where people are more community oriented instead of so individualistic.”

The Captain obviously agrees as he cheers out to a passing cat.

I find out that Diane and John share a common vocation; both are schoolteachers. And through this, it becomes apparent they are putting their priorities into action.

In expressing their wishes for us, “Give kids lot of hugs and enjoy them as kids… And always… family is first,” Diane say, accompanied again by John’s engaged expression of agreement.

John takes his turn, “I’d like to see a day when more people are being honest. So many people hide things. If we would learn to listen to each other, and have a sense of humor about life, not taking things too seriously, we would probably look at each other in a different way. And hopefully learn to trust, but we need to a least be able to laugh.”

“It would also be great to see a throwback in time, with less technology in our daily lives,” John states in advancing his outlook on the future.

Now I’ve lost count, how many times have we heard this?

Don’t take he or I wrong. We both agree that there is a place, and time, for the greatness of the technology we have. The point is, as we have heard in the ongoing caution we keep hearing from many of our 365 friends: We need to focus on creating a balanced life.

And how do we achieve this balance. That’s a personal question for us all to reflect upon. But to reinforce this reflection, Diane reveals a few pointers through her outlook towards the children of this new tech absorbed generation. “We need to spend more time playing outside, getting active, using our hands and creativity. You know, picking up a stick or a rock, and just going to town.”

I’m sure this idea hits us all at a deep down core level. I’m 50 and am again embracing my childhood self. And you know what? Life is somehow lightening up; while at the same time my adult self in growing in focus and purpose.

Work is still moving forward, family fun and issues are still occurring, and my aches are still here. But who cares, I’m breathing, growing and cohabitating in this planet the best I can.

Some days I am successful and on others I fail miserably. A fact of life we are all subject to, and a fact that if viewed with the correct glasses, is actually the fruit of life.

“Pick up a stick or a rock, and just go to town,” Diane instructs.

“It would also be great to see a throwback in time, with less technology in our daily lives,” John dreams.

Each reasons for consideration in aiding us to open our eyes in deciding how we will address each day of our temporal existence.

May we consider the eyes of the child, looking upon one another with accepting eyes and trusting hearts. Or at least instill these virtues, with a dose of discernment, to the emerging generation of our future leaders.

Diane, talks of hugs… and enjoying kids as kid… and always… family is first,”

In her words I see an outline of actions. First, teach our children, and ourselves, compassion, honesty and an educated outlook towards both the good and bad of the world (the key to discernment); and secondly, to drop guile, judgments and prejudices in reaching out.

Diane prompts us, “A world where people are helping each other, like cleaning a yard, going out and doing some type of random act of kindness. It would be great if that became the norm.”

With a smile, Diane shares a joke, but there is relevance in her humor. “Use your turn signals,” she laughs.

It’s funny how many of our 365 friends have cited avoiding road rage as an example of compassion toward mankind. Helps us to ask this question, “What other small acts can we do each day?”

Diane, John and Captain Morgan, a pleasure spending sidewalk time together. And leaning on Diane’s opening council, may we all, “Pay It Forward!”