I am fascinated by the way the world concurrently changes and stays the same. I have always been curious about the way the world works and in search of the best algorithm for living. Everywhere I look I see potential for promising endeavor, endeavor that enriches lives, and everywhere I look, I also learn something new about the way people live and why they live that way.
My questions about life are far greater than my years of living--my questions will outlive my life. Yet, it is those questions that bring me energy and fuel my life quest--what is the best way to live and how can we live together in ways that uplift each other and build a peaceful, loving, and positive world?
I am inspired by the people of great intelligence, knowledge, experience, and investment in the lives of others that surround me online and in real time--people long held in esteem by most and people less known by the masses. I know there are those like Noam Chomsky that I barely understand--people who have contributed their entire lives to learning deeply and educating others. I first was inspired by Chomsky in the 1980's when he spoke at my college. My mistake at that time was not learning more about him then when I had time and energy for deep intellectual study. At that time, I was unaware of the power of deep study and the promise that study brings to one's life and the lives of others. Other great writers, intellects, educators, leaders, and humanists such as Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, Martin Luther King, Dorothy Day, Nelson Mandela, Eli Wiesel, Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Jesus Christ, Harriet Tubman, Laurence Tribe, Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, Pam Moran, Chris Lehman, Josie Holford, Mary Ann Reilly, Jose Vilson, Elizabeth Warren and so many more speak to me via their words and actions from the past and present. I am inspired by the journeys, study, and words of great people who have contributed their gifts of intelligence and vision as well as sacrificed time, energy, and wealth to enrich lives and better our world in ways great and small.
Many think me foolish for my devotion to ideas and betterment. Others decry the fact that I add regular, everyday people to the lists of people revered by nations and for generations. And still more question my intellect, experience, depth of knowledge, and perspective. They think me crazy and let me know what they think often. I heed those words and tread cautiously knowing that there is always some truth in ridicule, but I forward my path because I know that it is important to believe in and speak your truth from your perspective. No one has the monopoly on knowledge, and we all lose out when people are quieted, teased, embarrassed and made to feel small with regard to who they are, what they believe in, their vision, and their quest.
My quest for truth was born in me at an early age. In fact, there have been great moments of revelation and call related to this quest. The memories include a bright morning sitting on the my grandparents' three decker stoop posing for a picture with my brother with my loving parents looking on. The sun was shining bright. It was a moment of perfect love. And there was the day when my kindergarten teacher shared slides from her trip to Holland. I never knew, before that day, that there was a world other than my own. It was a revelation that burst in me with excitement and wonder. There were three or four other moments, too personal to explain at this point, that inspired my quest too. Times that made me look within and outside of myself with depth, and times that have moved me forward with my desire to question, write, synthesize, create, and inspire.
I have chosen to travel this path of truth-seeking despite my imperfections. I know that it is the right path for me. I don't exactly know where the path is leading me, but I have a few ideas. I have also experienced many rocks and boulders along the way and there are more to come. The size of our world is daunting. The speed at which ideas spread incredible. The potential we all hold for what is right and good amazing.
Fortunately it is my large family and my school community that keeps me grounded as I quest. Children are my muse, and to teach them well is an incredible challenge--they demand the very best from you. My large, loving, independent, and strong minded family also hold my feet to the fire by constantly challenging me to make sure that I am living up to my words, and that my actions exemplify my beliefs. There are a few companions too who lovingly support me--these beautiful people are forgiving, caring, and always loving. All of these great people help me to be stronger every day.
Life is so short in the face of the questions and quests that exist, but no matter the quickness of our years, it is good to live our lives with as much truth, justice, and love as we can. If we do that, we will die with few regrets and great happiness too. Onward.