Sunday, January 28, 2007
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
My Sabbatical has Ended
With my return to the office on Monday, May 8th, my sabbatical has officially come to an end.
Of the three months that I was away from my office, I spent eight and a half weeks in Spain and Portugal. I had planned to go to Mexico first and then to Europe, but at the last minute, I decided against it. I changed my mind, because with Mexico being so near, I was afraid that I might not have had the time to visit Europe like I always wanted to…
Although, I returned from my trip on Monday, April 17, 2006, I did not enter my wrap up on my sabbatical because I wanted to rest up a bit and then have the proper time to digest my experiences.
Time Off
I had taken three weeks off in the past six years, which is not something that I am proud of, but I have to be honest about it. It was the time off was needed very badly.
It was difficult to take the proper time off from work when I first launched the non-profit organization. I mean you can take all the time off you want in the earlier days, but if money is not coming in, then time off without pay is an easy thing to do…
During the middle of the history of the organization, as the project started to grow, then my parents got sick. My father with Alzheimer’s and my mom then was diagnosed with lung cancer. During that time, which was in 2000, I was the caretaker of the family.
Often, when I would finish work, I would often go and spend the night with my mom while she was in the hospital because she did not want to stay alone at night. They both passed away in 2000 and I was the one who had to make the necessary arrangements to bury them. Then came the fund request to the Governor by State Senator Gil Cedillo and the grass roots organizing effort to garner the for support the request. With the dedication of the monument taking place in 2004, there really was no time to take a real vacation or time away from the office.
But the truth of the matter is; there is no reason for not taking time away from the job. I’m a workaholic and I do not think I am telling you anything new….
What I am telling you is that I really needed this time away.
Sabbatical
The dictionary describes that a sabbatical is “a period of paid leave granted to a college teacher for study or travel, traditionally every seventh year”.
My sabbatical was not a vacation or shall I say that I chose it not to be a vacation but it was time off from my job. I chose to do something that I was not able to do when I was young and so I traveled to Europe. I learned more about the world and myself.
I let go of all of my office duties and turned them over to my Associate Director, Eddie Martinez. The one thing I was involved with was a grant that was written for the Faith Based department of the organization. That was all.
I traveled to Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid, Lisbon, Porto, Fatima, Sintra, Zaragoza, and Lleida. I was there for nine weeks. I visited castles, churches, parks, plaza’s, art museums, colleges, AIDS organizations, bars, nightclubs, shopping centers, football (soccer) stadiums, monasteries, government buildings, the Spanish Senado, rivers and I can go on forever.
The greatest fascination I found was the little boy that I really am inside. I had lost that a long time ago. In Europe I spoke to anyone who would give me the time of day. I would often clown around, and made people laugh that brought joy to myself. Somewhere along the line, I had lost that…
I would often start by asking them “where are you from?” and then the conversation would either take off or it would not. I was open to learning more about who they were and where they came from.
I fed the birds and the ducks; I was amazed by the great architecture and often would stare at the clouds and wonder how big the world actually was…. Some of the same things that I would often think of when I was at All Saints Elementary School in El Sereno. Yes, I found my childhood again.
Many people wondered, “How can you travel alone to Europe?” I never really thought of the answer too much until I left Lisbon the last time and I was waiving good-bye to my friends. Vanda and Francisco…you see; I am a child of an alcoholic. As a child, I would often take care of my parents…Often I had to wait until they were both asleep so that I could go to sleep myself because I was afraid that the house would burn down.
Now on this trip…I was able to be who I really am…I mean I knew how to have fun, how to enjoy people and I certainly did. My guard was down and I let myself back in…
Living and Loving
Now that you know a bit more about me, you know that I like people…right? I met lots of people, but only got to know several really good….
Carles….Ruiz-Feltrer…who I befriended when I arrived at the Monastery de Montserrat …I told him…when I first met him…”Listen, I do not understand the language here in Barcelona, so wherever you go, I will follow you, ok?”. And he guided me through some of the best days in my trip. He would knock on my door to let me know what time prayers were…and then when we parted, he kindly walked me out of the premises and promised to be there whenever I may need anything and he was…Thank you, Carles for your thoughtfulness…. Thank you…
Helena Campelo. …From Madrid. An attractive woman that I met on the train on my way to Madrid…. At first, I know it was a bit difficult understanding me, then we got to know each other well…She took me to Toledo and was so passionate about showing me more of Spain…A powerful business woman and a mother, who was so considerate to constantly e mailing me and calling to see how I was doing…and not afraid to tell me…”you know, Richard”. I had to meet you, because there is something that you have that I want”. I often asked myself, what could a successful and attractive woman want from me?
Towards the last few days of my trip, she called and did not just offer but asked me what time can I pick you up from your place to take you to see your friend…and she drove half way through Spain to take me to visit my friend…. Their are no words to describe my appreciation to you…Helena…. not just for the deeds…but your friendship.
Vanda Dias and Francisco Vaz
Wow…who would have known that when I rented a room from Ms. Dias for a week, that our friendship would be so deep…Vanda opened her house and her heart to me…and so did Francisco. They not only allowed me in they’re space, but took me around town and shared with me some of their fondest places in Lisbon. To share an example with you…I accidentally got lost from Vanda one night…at Colombo’s galleria…. it was a rainy night. and she later called Francisco and told him that she was very concerned and worried for me….his response.” Maybe he met someone”…I was really touched by that…that someone who never knew me before would actually worry about me…
I allowed myself to be loved and I opened the door to a new part of who I am …
Politics
When I left for Europe, I was really upset about America. I was upset at the system and at the people. The lack of courage, vision, the pettiness, bigotry, laziness, the lack of interest…
Spending time in Europe and speaking to countless of individuals I learned that we are in a very trying time in the history of our country, we still know how to make change and while we have not shown brave, innovative and bold leadership recently we truly have the opportunity to make the change that is so badly needed.
Every person I spoke to asked me “What happened to America? Why have the people allowed this to happen?’ While some of the Europeans have a negative attitude about the United States, there is still enormous respect for this country and it’s people. Even more respect for the expectations that they have of Americans. That became very clear to me.
Despite of all of the problems that this country faces and voter apathy, this country is still the OPPORTUNITY for change. The system is truly the greatest framework for a democratic government; we just elect the wrong people to office.
Today’s modern technology and our overwhelming need to buy the latest products on the market do not always help in pushing our concerns forward. We need to mobilize and organize the people in our communities. That means that each of us must be held accountable. That being said, I have to be an activist not only in the issues that are dear to me but what are the most important issues to the community that I am a part of…
I am ready to do my part. But, I must be strategic with my time and energy.
Spirituality
I am very lucky to be a fairly spiritual person. But, this experience has really deepened my spirituality.
When I lived in the moment, there was magic in the air. Things and people that I wanted to meet came my way. When I thought of something that I needed, I would often turn the corner and it was there for me to experience.
Only in Lisbon, was my accommodations pre-arranged and that was finalized before I boarded the train to Lisbon from Madrid. Everything just happened. Well, it did not just happened, but it was meant to happen. I also allowed it.
I basked in the beauty of my creator often as I would often speak to the hundreds of people that I had the privilege of speaking to and the people I met. From the conservative community organizers in Madrid who were collecting signatures on a ballot measure to the young women of Rescate to the waiters, cooks and hotel workers who were so good to me…. Their goodness contributed to my sense of spirituality. A part of them was God….and for that I am eternally grateful.
Lessons Learned
I learned much along my personal journey and here are a the few of the most obvious lessons that I learned…
1) Learn to trust more…that people, places and things will work itself out.
2) It is ok to have fun and you are never too old to do so.
3) To be proud of my accomplishments and who I am
4) Be more attentive to my intuition
5) Enjoy my friends and share with them my affection for them
6) Place myself high on the priority list because I deserve it
7) Allow my self to be loved and accept that it is real
8) Allow time for myself for rest and nourishment
9) Accept the fact that I am a community leader and knowing that, must learn to step back to allow others to grow and blossom
10) Know that the organization and the cause that I am a part of will and can go without me
11) Stay in the present
12) The world is really not that big
13) Hope!
14) Be structured, patient and understanding
15) Be a bigger team player
16) Humility
Now What?
The office did well without me. Now my job is come back to the position of President of the Corporation and the Executive Director.
My primary role will be to raise the necessary funds to manage The Wall-Las Memorias Project. As a visionary for the agency, I have to do a better job of not only sharing the vision, but allow others to adapt themselves to it and not always expecting them to interpret it according to my version.
Looking at other personal projects in the near future, I know that I have to take better care of myself. Taking time off, focusing on myself and the things that I like doing.
One big change that I made is to sell the house that I grew up in that both my brother and I own. My parents had wanted us to hang on to it, but I have outgrown it and the neighborhood. It really is a big thing for me, but then again it isn’t.
As that chapter in my life comes to a close, it is said that most people in the United States usually live to about 76 years or so…. If that is the case, then I have lived 2/3 of my life already…The sabbatical gave me the opportunity to look at how I plan to live the last 1/3 of my life if God allows it.
So now what you may ask? Well, I have started to write my biography. I am writing it, because I would like to share my story with so many… I plan to do many other things in the last years of my life. Within due time, you will hear more about it…please stay tuned.
For the time being, I plan to go back to my office that is filled with Dodger bubbleheads; on the wall there is a tapestry of Mother Theresa, a photo of the Virgin de Guadalupe and awards from elected officials and community based organizations.
I join the ranks of some powerful people that are part of The Wall-Las Memorias Project, a community based non profit organization that constructed an AIDS monument to people who have died to AIDS.
For it was my dream that actually became a reality for many…
Thank You
My deepest appreciation to Mr. Gary L. Yates, President of the California Wellness Foundation and Sandra J. Martinez, program monitor for awarding me the opportunity to take a breath from the office and from the cause. When Sandra called me, I was really in shock. I am humbled by the gift and the honor. THANK YOU!
My thanks to my board of directors who supported me during this time…
Ida Tagliente, Board Chair. Thank you for your hard work and faith in the project and in me. Thank you for your dedicated leadership. You are an incredible woman.
Tim Towery, a hard worker, supporter and very good friend….
Yolanda de Garcia, who has given so much to the cause and to me personally…
Michael Mathews, who finds the time from his new business to lead the fundraising committee…
Father Peter Lambert, who has been so supportive in helping the faith-based community understand HIV/AIDS a little better and for your prayers, love and support…
Vince Sandoval, for your hard work on the board and coordinating cooperate support for the organization
Iris Miranda, who has been a hard working member for many years and although she is on leave of absence from the board, she nevertheless working for the community as a powerful Latina for Senator Cedillo
Staff
Eddie Martinez, one of the few people who knows me so well and took the leadership as acting Executive Director and did a great job. You have brought a different perspective to the agency. I will continue to count on you for much of that leadership
Carlos Molina, who committed and continues to commit himself to the values of the organization. His ideas and leadership is taking the fundraising of the project to a whole new level.
Ariel Rivera, is not only sustaining the Faith Based division but has worked hard to expand it. During this period of time he has one of the highest scores in a leadership program at the Centers for Disease Control.
Enrique Topete, Luis Brito, Humberto Franco, Daniel Cardona, Leilani Montes, Ozzie Granjaldo, and Nadia Andrade. To Roz Teller and Geoffrey Gee.
Thanks to my cousin Sandra and my appreciation to Eric Sagot who is a very good friend and like a brother….who kept on eye on me from Los Angeles.
Thank you to you….my friend who has been there for me…a friend, supporter, a reader of this blog. I appreciate you spending some time with me..
And thanks to God for giving me my life……with love…..Richard
Of the three months that I was away from my office, I spent eight and a half weeks in Spain and Portugal. I had planned to go to Mexico first and then to Europe, but at the last minute, I decided against it. I changed my mind, because with Mexico being so near, I was afraid that I might not have had the time to visit Europe like I always wanted to…
Although, I returned from my trip on Monday, April 17, 2006, I did not enter my wrap up on my sabbatical because I wanted to rest up a bit and then have the proper time to digest my experiences.
Time Off
I had taken three weeks off in the past six years, which is not something that I am proud of, but I have to be honest about it. It was the time off was needed very badly.
It was difficult to take the proper time off from work when I first launched the non-profit organization. I mean you can take all the time off you want in the earlier days, but if money is not coming in, then time off without pay is an easy thing to do…
During the middle of the history of the organization, as the project started to grow, then my parents got sick. My father with Alzheimer’s and my mom then was diagnosed with lung cancer. During that time, which was in 2000, I was the caretaker of the family.
Often, when I would finish work, I would often go and spend the night with my mom while she was in the hospital because she did not want to stay alone at night. They both passed away in 2000 and I was the one who had to make the necessary arrangements to bury them. Then came the fund request to the Governor by State Senator Gil Cedillo and the grass roots organizing effort to garner the for support the request. With the dedication of the monument taking place in 2004, there really was no time to take a real vacation or time away from the office.
But the truth of the matter is; there is no reason for not taking time away from the job. I’m a workaholic and I do not think I am telling you anything new….
What I am telling you is that I really needed this time away.
Sabbatical
The dictionary describes that a sabbatical is “a period of paid leave granted to a college teacher for study or travel, traditionally every seventh year”.
My sabbatical was not a vacation or shall I say that I chose it not to be a vacation but it was time off from my job. I chose to do something that I was not able to do when I was young and so I traveled to Europe. I learned more about the world and myself.
I let go of all of my office duties and turned them over to my Associate Director, Eddie Martinez. The one thing I was involved with was a grant that was written for the Faith Based department of the organization. That was all.
I traveled to Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid, Lisbon, Porto, Fatima, Sintra, Zaragoza, and Lleida. I was there for nine weeks. I visited castles, churches, parks, plaza’s, art museums, colleges, AIDS organizations, bars, nightclubs, shopping centers, football (soccer) stadiums, monasteries, government buildings, the Spanish Senado, rivers and I can go on forever.
The greatest fascination I found was the little boy that I really am inside. I had lost that a long time ago. In Europe I spoke to anyone who would give me the time of day. I would often clown around, and made people laugh that brought joy to myself. Somewhere along the line, I had lost that…
I would often start by asking them “where are you from?” and then the conversation would either take off or it would not. I was open to learning more about who they were and where they came from.
I fed the birds and the ducks; I was amazed by the great architecture and often would stare at the clouds and wonder how big the world actually was…. Some of the same things that I would often think of when I was at All Saints Elementary School in El Sereno. Yes, I found my childhood again.
Many people wondered, “How can you travel alone to Europe?” I never really thought of the answer too much until I left Lisbon the last time and I was waiving good-bye to my friends. Vanda and Francisco…you see; I am a child of an alcoholic. As a child, I would often take care of my parents…Often I had to wait until they were both asleep so that I could go to sleep myself because I was afraid that the house would burn down.
Now on this trip…I was able to be who I really am…I mean I knew how to have fun, how to enjoy people and I certainly did. My guard was down and I let myself back in…
Living and Loving
Now that you know a bit more about me, you know that I like people…right? I met lots of people, but only got to know several really good….
Carles….Ruiz-Feltrer…who I befriended when I arrived at the Monastery de Montserrat …I told him…when I first met him…”Listen, I do not understand the language here in Barcelona, so wherever you go, I will follow you, ok?”. And he guided me through some of the best days in my trip. He would knock on my door to let me know what time prayers were…and then when we parted, he kindly walked me out of the premises and promised to be there whenever I may need anything and he was…Thank you, Carles for your thoughtfulness…. Thank you…
Helena Campelo. …From Madrid. An attractive woman that I met on the train on my way to Madrid…. At first, I know it was a bit difficult understanding me, then we got to know each other well…She took me to Toledo and was so passionate about showing me more of Spain…A powerful business woman and a mother, who was so considerate to constantly e mailing me and calling to see how I was doing…and not afraid to tell me…”you know, Richard”. I had to meet you, because there is something that you have that I want”. I often asked myself, what could a successful and attractive woman want from me?
Towards the last few days of my trip, she called and did not just offer but asked me what time can I pick you up from your place to take you to see your friend…and she drove half way through Spain to take me to visit my friend…. Their are no words to describe my appreciation to you…Helena…. not just for the deeds…but your friendship.
Vanda Dias and Francisco Vaz
Wow…who would have known that when I rented a room from Ms. Dias for a week, that our friendship would be so deep…Vanda opened her house and her heart to me…and so did Francisco. They not only allowed me in they’re space, but took me around town and shared with me some of their fondest places in Lisbon. To share an example with you…I accidentally got lost from Vanda one night…at Colombo’s galleria…. it was a rainy night. and she later called Francisco and told him that she was very concerned and worried for me….his response.” Maybe he met someone”…I was really touched by that…that someone who never knew me before would actually worry about me…
I allowed myself to be loved and I opened the door to a new part of who I am …
Politics
When I left for Europe, I was really upset about America. I was upset at the system and at the people. The lack of courage, vision, the pettiness, bigotry, laziness, the lack of interest…
Spending time in Europe and speaking to countless of individuals I learned that we are in a very trying time in the history of our country, we still know how to make change and while we have not shown brave, innovative and bold leadership recently we truly have the opportunity to make the change that is so badly needed.
Every person I spoke to asked me “What happened to America? Why have the people allowed this to happen?’ While some of the Europeans have a negative attitude about the United States, there is still enormous respect for this country and it’s people. Even more respect for the expectations that they have of Americans. That became very clear to me.
Despite of all of the problems that this country faces and voter apathy, this country is still the OPPORTUNITY for change. The system is truly the greatest framework for a democratic government; we just elect the wrong people to office.
Today’s modern technology and our overwhelming need to buy the latest products on the market do not always help in pushing our concerns forward. We need to mobilize and organize the people in our communities. That means that each of us must be held accountable. That being said, I have to be an activist not only in the issues that are dear to me but what are the most important issues to the community that I am a part of…
I am ready to do my part. But, I must be strategic with my time and energy.
Spirituality
I am very lucky to be a fairly spiritual person. But, this experience has really deepened my spirituality.
When I lived in the moment, there was magic in the air. Things and people that I wanted to meet came my way. When I thought of something that I needed, I would often turn the corner and it was there for me to experience.
Only in Lisbon, was my accommodations pre-arranged and that was finalized before I boarded the train to Lisbon from Madrid. Everything just happened. Well, it did not just happened, but it was meant to happen. I also allowed it.
I basked in the beauty of my creator often as I would often speak to the hundreds of people that I had the privilege of speaking to and the people I met. From the conservative community organizers in Madrid who were collecting signatures on a ballot measure to the young women of Rescate to the waiters, cooks and hotel workers who were so good to me…. Their goodness contributed to my sense of spirituality. A part of them was God….and for that I am eternally grateful.
Lessons Learned
I learned much along my personal journey and here are a the few of the most obvious lessons that I learned…
1) Learn to trust more…that people, places and things will work itself out.
2) It is ok to have fun and you are never too old to do so.
3) To be proud of my accomplishments and who I am
4) Be more attentive to my intuition
5) Enjoy my friends and share with them my affection for them
6) Place myself high on the priority list because I deserve it
7) Allow my self to be loved and accept that it is real
8) Allow time for myself for rest and nourishment
9) Accept the fact that I am a community leader and knowing that, must learn to step back to allow others to grow and blossom
10) Know that the organization and the cause that I am a part of will and can go without me
11) Stay in the present
12) The world is really not that big
13) Hope!
14) Be structured, patient and understanding
15) Be a bigger team player
16) Humility
Now What?
The office did well without me. Now my job is come back to the position of President of the Corporation and the Executive Director.
My primary role will be to raise the necessary funds to manage The Wall-Las Memorias Project. As a visionary for the agency, I have to do a better job of not only sharing the vision, but allow others to adapt themselves to it and not always expecting them to interpret it according to my version.
Looking at other personal projects in the near future, I know that I have to take better care of myself. Taking time off, focusing on myself and the things that I like doing.
One big change that I made is to sell the house that I grew up in that both my brother and I own. My parents had wanted us to hang on to it, but I have outgrown it and the neighborhood. It really is a big thing for me, but then again it isn’t.
As that chapter in my life comes to a close, it is said that most people in the United States usually live to about 76 years or so…. If that is the case, then I have lived 2/3 of my life already…The sabbatical gave me the opportunity to look at how I plan to live the last 1/3 of my life if God allows it.
So now what you may ask? Well, I have started to write my biography. I am writing it, because I would like to share my story with so many… I plan to do many other things in the last years of my life. Within due time, you will hear more about it…please stay tuned.
For the time being, I plan to go back to my office that is filled with Dodger bubbleheads; on the wall there is a tapestry of Mother Theresa, a photo of the Virgin de Guadalupe and awards from elected officials and community based organizations.
I join the ranks of some powerful people that are part of The Wall-Las Memorias Project, a community based non profit organization that constructed an AIDS monument to people who have died to AIDS.
For it was my dream that actually became a reality for many…
Thank You
My deepest appreciation to Mr. Gary L. Yates, President of the California Wellness Foundation and Sandra J. Martinez, program monitor for awarding me the opportunity to take a breath from the office and from the cause. When Sandra called me, I was really in shock. I am humbled by the gift and the honor. THANK YOU!
My thanks to my board of directors who supported me during this time…
Ida Tagliente, Board Chair. Thank you for your hard work and faith in the project and in me. Thank you for your dedicated leadership. You are an incredible woman.
Tim Towery, a hard worker, supporter and very good friend….
Yolanda de Garcia, who has given so much to the cause and to me personally…
Michael Mathews, who finds the time from his new business to lead the fundraising committee…
Father Peter Lambert, who has been so supportive in helping the faith-based community understand HIV/AIDS a little better and for your prayers, love and support…
Vince Sandoval, for your hard work on the board and coordinating cooperate support for the organization
Iris Miranda, who has been a hard working member for many years and although she is on leave of absence from the board, she nevertheless working for the community as a powerful Latina for Senator Cedillo
Staff
Eddie Martinez, one of the few people who knows me so well and took the leadership as acting Executive Director and did a great job. You have brought a different perspective to the agency. I will continue to count on you for much of that leadership
Carlos Molina, who committed and continues to commit himself to the values of the organization. His ideas and leadership is taking the fundraising of the project to a whole new level.
Ariel Rivera, is not only sustaining the Faith Based division but has worked hard to expand it. During this period of time he has one of the highest scores in a leadership program at the Centers for Disease Control.
Enrique Topete, Luis Brito, Humberto Franco, Daniel Cardona, Leilani Montes, Ozzie Granjaldo, and Nadia Andrade. To Roz Teller and Geoffrey Gee.
Thanks to my cousin Sandra and my appreciation to Eric Sagot who is a very good friend and like a brother….who kept on eye on me from Los Angeles.
Thank you to you….my friend who has been there for me…a friend, supporter, a reader of this blog. I appreciate you spending some time with me..
And thanks to God for giving me my life……with love…..Richard
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Easter Sunday
I got up at 6:30 a.m. to take the train to Barcelona......waited there for four hours and left Spain for Zurich for a night over for departure to Los Angeles on Monday...
It was a brief one night stop, but I got a chance to visit the downtown area of Zurich...boy was it cold!
Friday, April 21, 2006
Wrap up on my Sabbatical
For your information, the wrap up on my sabbatical will be published on this blog site within the next week...
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Thank you Helena
My deepest thanks to Helena for driving from Madrid to Zaragoza then to Peralta de la Sal to visit Father John. Their are no words to describe my appreciation to her for doing this...
Traveling to this remote area of Spain was not an easy task. She was magnificent! I am sure that the family of Father John is grateful to you as I am....
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Visiting Father John on Good Friday
You could say that it was coming to the end of a ballgame or the the final act of a broadway play. But NO one could ever have scripted my final days here in Europe as the way occurred....
It was Friday about noon and my friend Helena picked me up on the street corner as I had just checked out of my room which faced the plaza of "Our Lady of the Pilar" Basilica in Zaragoza, Spain. Thousands were expected for the Good Friday observance. I...decided to get out of town.
So I jumped in the car and off we went. Where? Well, we were going to see my friend Father John, who had passed away back in 2004 and was buried in a very small..I mean small town in a northern part of Aragon, Spain.
It seems like we drove.....and drove and drove....It was a beautiful clear day and you could see flat green lands and mountain tops covered with snow. We were actually very close to France..so they signs read..
But we were on a mission and Helena the great friend that she is drove three hours from Madrid just to pick me up so we could find him.
Along the way, we stopped for coffee and we talked. I drove and Helena was the navigator..She worked the front seat of her car as a fierce navigator..studying several maps so that we would arrive prior to sundown.
And so about 4:30 or so...we came along to a sign that read "Peralta de la Sal". We finally got here... we pulled over on the road and like kids...I walked up to the street sign and Helena took a picture of me...I then rolled over in tall green grass...I was in heaven...it was like a painted picture. The grass was green, the rolling hills....it was beautiful warm spring day.
We drove into town, trying to locate the cemetary, again before nighfall..and so Helena saw the cemetary from a distance on a hill overlooking the valley. We drove up to the hill and enterted the cemetary.
Cemetaries here are a bit different.They can be traditional graves or mausoleums...Helena actually found Father John´s headstone. It was at the top of a mausoleum wall. I actually made it here! I had been wanting to come so bad...He had done so much for the community, The Wall-Las Memorias and for me. He had said several funeral masses for most of my family. Now this was one way to say thank you.
He took risks....he did things that other clergy would not do and many times he paid the price for it. He once told me that because of the enormous groundwork that had been laid in the area of HIV/AIDS awareness by The Wall-Las Memorias Project that the Archdiocese decided to move the office of AIDS ministry to St. Camilus on the east side of town. He was involved with many causes and embraced his roots. He loved the Mexican-American culture, it's food and music.
As a board member, he once went with me to a meeting with the Dodgers and told the Dodger officials that it was the very first time that he had ever stepped in the stadium, particulalry since the city had kicked his family out of Chavez Ravine. He claimed that his familys home had been at 3rd base. He cares about his community.
So I came here to pray for him and to thank him for so all he had done for us and the community. I do not know of anyone who has been able to visit him. His memorial service in Los Angeles was very impressive. It left a huge impression on me...and I have to say, that I was a bit disappointed with the family and some of his close friends for failing to menion the fact that he was an AIDS activist and even a board member of our agency. But, that is ok..I really do miss him...he was one good friend and a priest that I could relate to in a very deep spìritual level. But for today I was able to be close to him again, even for a few moments.
I turned to Helena and told her...look...this man...so great to so many people and yet he is buried so far over here in Spain...so remote...no one will ever visit him..and her response to me was.. "you know Richard, it is not where you are buried, it is who and for what you are remembered for...he left a huge impact on your life or you would not be here...right?". She was so right....He impacted thousands of people....
I wanted to bring flowers to his site...but in a small town in Spain...no flower shops to be had....so my dear friend, Helena..went out to the hillside and picked some fresh flowers...I was so moved by that gesture...her generousity and tremendous love for me and for what I believe in...are beyond words. I took several photos so I could present them to his family. I hope John is happy and pleased with the photos that I took of him...(he was alway´s a ham).
Following the visit, we went into town looking for the monastary. We actually went in circles for some time...but we finally got it right and it was in the middle of town. We walked in looking for Father Jesus...the rector, but he was not in. He was expecting me on Saturday morning. So we waited around for some time..
A man came to greet us....his name was Juan and he gave us a tour of the place when a woman in her sixties and a priest by the name of Father Thadeus was introduced to us. When they found out that I was from Los Angeles and I was there to visit John, they were very happy. They said that he was a great man and well liked by the people of the local pueblo. Father Thadeus was very fond of John and when I asked if I could take some photos...he not only obliged, but organized the group photo.
It was becoming nightfall and we had no place to sleep, so I we had to leave. Father Thadeus wanted us to stay and offered to find us a place..but we refused. He insisted that we tour his garden and so we went oustide and as we said good bye, he looked a bit sad....he said that it was a pleasure to meet us and that he would send some photos of John so that we could pass them along to the family....we thanked him again. Then with a quick stare, he told us...."you know, I believe in divine providence". I responded, so do I... We both were chilled at the comment but we knew that the meaning was much more profound than one could ever expect. And as we walked away, he stared at us and then into the sky.
Father Thadeus who was about 90 or so was a very deep spritual man who was happy that we visisted John and stayed around to meet him. This was a very powerful expereince. Their were no words to describe what we felt in our short exchange of words with him.
We drove towards Lleida which was about an hour and a half away. We still talked about the experince and were overjoyed that both of us had experienced something magical.
When the world remembered a civil rights activist who was crucified on the cross, we came to Peralta de la Sal to remember the activist who was born among the hills that are now known as Chavez Ravine and passed from us and is buried in a small town in northern Spain, he is in our hearts forever....
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Semana Santa in Zaragoza
Thousands of people are participating in the procession in honor of Semana Santa
Today is Holy Thursday and I am sitting in the square of the Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar. It is a huge square and people are gathering for the continuing services (rituals) of Semana Santa.
The past few days, I have been taking it easy…maybe that is why I am so exhausted. I am ready to go home.
The City of Zaragoza is beautiful but small. Many tourists are here from throughout Spain for Semana Santa (Holy Week). It is unbelievable; the town has closed down…and will he closed today and tomorrow.
The great news is that my friend Helena is driving all the way from Madrid to meet me tomorrow and she wants to take me to visit some other towns before I leave. Well, not much time left. I will be in Barcelona on Saturday night to depart on Sunday (I do not want to miss the flight).
For the last two nights, the people of Zaragoza just like the rest of Spain have been commemorating Holy week with a procession from one church to another. Men and woman dress up in cloaks with their heads covered, then men dressed as Roman soldiers escort a life size float resembling the various Stations of the Cross. Hundreds of people march to the beat of the drum and music. Women dressed in black march as they were attending the crucifixion in mourning. It is beautiful.
I remember as a child, that on Good Friday, we not only abstained from eating meat, but we also fasted. We were not allowed to watch television or play music from noon to three on Friday to observe the exact time of Christ’s Crucifixion. And we would definitely not go out and party…..oh no….We were taught that we had to sacrifice something for this great leader who died on the cross.
Millions of people are making sacrifices today. Many are dying from thirst in Somalia, people are dying in Africa, uncertainly in the Middle East, a war in Iraq that seems never ending, and talk here of the United States responding to a nuclear threat in Iran. Not to mention the immigration issues…
Some British folks have told me that they are tired at looking at non-white people in England taking jobs away, the Irish are complaining of those fleeing there from the Eastern Europe and the Spanish and Portuguese complain of the thousands that arrive daily from Africa and Latin America that are taking jobs away from the locals.
In the United States millions of people have responded by taking to the streets in demonstration against the anti-immigrant sentiment. Immigration is an international issue and not one person is addressing it…NOT ONE.I wonder if that is ignorance or arrogance. People flee to other countries because they have to feed their families and there is no work in their homeland. But, that is another conversation.
The point I am trying to make here is that many people are making the sacrifice. YOU are making the sacrifice that often-religious institutions ask you to make. You donate you time and your love to others. You help educate the community about HIV/AIDS, crystal meth, substance abuse and so much more. Many of the family members who have lost loved ones have gone on to do outreach to the community so other parents would not have to loose any more children to AIDS. We have had to fight ignorance and bigotry and we have done it in a very loving way.
The members of the staff of The Wall-Las Memorias Project, board members, CAB members, volunteers, mothers of the Wall, corporate sponsors, elected and community leaders and church members, you constantly sacrifice to make our community a better place in which to live.
On Good Friday…he could be a religious leader, civil rights leader, your savior or as I put it a community activist…you could commemorate his passing as a way to recall how you have followed in his footsteps. Be proud and thankful for what you have done for your community…in essence for humanity. You have sacrificed and sometimes it might have felt like you too have carried a cross…It is ok to feel like that…because after all, we are taught to walk in his footsteps….
I will try to catch up on the blog sometime over the weekend…...Spend some time in recalling what we have done for a community and how much more we still have to do…
Have a great Easter to each of you…
With much love…
Richard
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Leaving Portugal, Monday, April 10, 2006
Portugal
Well, it is Sunday night and I am getting ready to start my trip back…. Do you remember that I said I was going to Rome…and then I was going to Vigo….well, I am not…..I decided to stay longer than I had planned in Porto….so I will head back to Lisbon…then to Madrid…and hopefully change trains to continue to Zaragosa in Northeast Spain….I will then be able to visit Father Juan in Peralta…on Saturday.
Last night after the concert, as I was walking through town I heard a group playing Cuban music in a local club…so I dropped in for a set or two...
I then waked to a club and listen to some music. It was a very nice and attractive but mixed crowd. I met many interesting people. I guess I looked like a tourist. Most of the people I spoke with would tell me…”gee you Americans are big people”. Imagine, if they would see some of the other folks from home….(valley of the green giants)
I went to Mass and heard the choir that I have been telling you about. They were magnificent. After, I met up with my new friend, Pedro we went to lunch and talked for some time. He mentioned to me that yesterday he was invited to sing at the Colosiu Concert Hall in May. He will be giving two performances with a capacity of 3,000 people. I am really happy for him He deserves the best.
I am having dinner at this small restaurant across from the street I am staying at and thought I would enter in my log…
I hate leaving Porto…. I really do…I fell in love with it. The people are more than welcoming. They make you feel like family. I cannot believe I have been here for eight days. 99% of all of the Portuguese people that I met here in Porto are native born.
They are proud of their city…. and they should.
I will take the train to Lisbon tomorrow afternoon. I will then take the overnight train to Madrid…. that is…if I can get a ticket at the last minute. I will then take the train on Tuesday morning to Zaragoza.
Portugal…. is a fantastic place…the tourist publications say that Portugal is the gateway to Europe (Mediterranean). But, I must tell you that the people are the gateway to hospitality and that is what they should promote.
In my time in Portugal, I have been greeted with warmth and respect. They are humble and proud people. They never gave me any trouble for not speaking the local language and were very patient when I would speak to them in Spanish.
Portugal is a poor country. The people are not too political and they do not care to know about your politics. They are proud of their history and rich in their culture. For example…no choir that I have heard can compete with the magnificent choir of “Se Cathedral” that I had spoken to you about. I wish that the Portugal tourist department would sponsor tour for this choir to share their talent with so many of us in the states.
It is a conservative country. Abortion is not legal and the gay politics seems nil. I never saw any establishments with the word gay or lesbian. I tried to get information from their AIDS organization here in Porto, but could not get through.
Please…do not get me wrong, there is a gay and lesbian community, but not overt in any way. I mean it is not obvious here and the people are not threatened by anything…they just do not acknowledge it..…. They are family orient
Well, it is Sunday night and I am getting ready to start my trip back…. Do you remember that I said I was going to Rome…and then I was going to Vigo….well, I am not…..I decided to stay longer than I had planned in Porto….so I will head back to Lisbon…then to Madrid…and hopefully change trains to continue to Zaragosa in Northeast Spain….I will then be able to visit Father Juan in Peralta…on Saturday.
Last night after the concert, as I was walking through town I heard a group playing Cuban music in a local club…so I dropped in for a set or two...
I then waked to a club and listen to some music. It was a very nice and attractive but mixed crowd. I met many interesting people. I guess I looked like a tourist. Most of the people I spoke with would tell me…”gee you Americans are big people”. Imagine, if they would see some of the other folks from home….(valley of the green giants)
I went to Mass and heard the choir that I have been telling you about. They were magnificent. After, I met up with my new friend, Pedro we went to lunch and talked for some time. He mentioned to me that yesterday he was invited to sing at the Colosiu Concert Hall in May. He will be giving two performances with a capacity of 3,000 people. I am really happy for him He deserves the best.
I am having dinner at this small restaurant across from the street I am staying at and thought I would enter in my log…
I hate leaving Porto…. I really do…I fell in love with it. The people are more than welcoming. They make you feel like family. I cannot believe I have been here for eight days. 99% of all of the Portuguese people that I met here in Porto are native born.
They are proud of their city…. and they should.
I will take the train to Lisbon tomorrow afternoon. I will then take the overnight train to Madrid…. that is…if I can get a ticket at the last minute. I will then take the train on Tuesday morning to Zaragoza.
Portugal…. is a fantastic place…the tourist publications say that Portugal is the gateway to Europe (Mediterranean). But, I must tell you that the people are the gateway to hospitality and that is what they should promote.
In my time in Portugal, I have been greeted with warmth and respect. They are humble and proud people. They never gave me any trouble for not speaking the local language and were very patient when I would speak to them in Spanish.
Portugal is a poor country. The people are not too political and they do not care to know about your politics. They are proud of their history and rich in their culture. For example…no choir that I have heard can compete with the magnificent choir of “Se Cathedral” that I had spoken to you about. I wish that the Portugal tourist department would sponsor tour for this choir to share their talent with so many of us in the states.
It is a conservative country. Abortion is not legal and the gay politics seems nil. I never saw any establishments with the word gay or lesbian. I tried to get information from their AIDS organization here in Porto, but could not get through.
Please…do not get me wrong, there is a gay and lesbian community, but not overt in any way. I mean it is not obvious here and the people are not threatened by anything…they just do not acknowledge it..…. They are family orient
April 12, 2006
I am now in Zaragoza, Spain. I will have more to tell you later...but just want to thank Vanda and Fransisco for meeting me at the train station in Lisbon for my lay over train to Madrid....We had dinner and as always had a great conversation...
Helena has told me that she wants to travel to Zaragoza to hang out with me...on Friday and so does Carles from Barcelona...I am overwhelmed to have all of these people that want to give up some of their holiday time to spend with me...
The train ride here...from Lisbon to Madrid...overnight...then Tuesday morning to Zaragoza....will update you later today...
Helena has told me that she wants to travel to Zaragoza to hang out with me...on Friday and so does Carles from Barcelona...I am overwhelmed to have all of these people that want to give up some of their holiday time to spend with me...
The train ride here...from Lisbon to Madrid...overnight...then Tuesday morning to Zaragoza....will update you later today...
Sunday, April 09, 2006
A performance by Pedro Telles
After the day long trip I attended a choir performance at the "Se Cathedral". It was a collection of religous music in anticipation of Holy Week...in Porto.
One of the highlights of the evening was a musical performance of "Moon River" by Europe's rising classical vocalist "Pedro Telles"....He also sang several versions of Ave Maria....
He was great...!
Saturday, April 8, 2006
I was out most of the day...I took a train to Guimares...Below is the description of the city that I pulled off of the Portugal Tourist web page....please feel free to access my photo blog to capture a small glimpse of the city..
Guimarães
Portugal’s birthplace, with medieval castle and walls, houses a magnificently well-preserved historic centre. In the cloisters of the church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira is the Alberto Sampaio Museum; and the cloister of São Domingos Convent houses the Martins Sarmento Museum. In the ancient dominican convent stands the Sacred Art Museum. Also deserving special mentions are the palace of the Dukes of Bragança (15th-century), the church of São Miguel (Romanesque), the church of Santos Passos (Baroque), and the monastery of Santa Marinha da Costa (converted in to a pousada). Nearby lies the early settlement of Briteiros.
While I was there and stopped by an ancient church, I witnessed a marriage ceremony....I was in the church as someone was getting married...and I was not even invited to the reception...imagine..
Friday, April 07, 2006
Friday, April 7, 2006
It is Friday....nice....had relaxing day...got a great massage..picked up my clothes from the laundry....then went to dinner...ahhhhhhhhh..real fat....real fat..egg served over a beef steak...with ham and cheese...what are you going to do...
I then took in a performance of Mozart Requiem....at the Coliseu do Porto ...it was a very nice performance...
The Coliseu do Porto is a nice concert hall just across the street from where I am staying....
Well....I have been reading about the buzz in Washington DC...INTERESTING....Anyway...I thought I would check in...tomorrow is a big day..for me....one more day of sight-seeing before I leave Portugal...
Good night...
I then took in a performance of Mozart Requiem....at the Coliseu do Porto ...it was a very nice performance...
The Coliseu do Porto is a nice concert hall just across the street from where I am staying....
Well....I have been reading about the buzz in Washington DC...INTERESTING....Anyway...I thought I would check in...tomorrow is a big day..for me....one more day of sight-seeing before I leave Portugal...
Good night...
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Thursday, April 6, 2006
I have been relaxing for the past few days....just when I told you that the weather was nice...well...it rained and got windy...uh!
A tornedo hit the central part of the country yesterday...I walked around town a bit and took in a movie...I had to travel about 25 miles to see Casanova...great movie...well done...it was entertaining...and what a plot...
Today...I took in a museum or two....went looking for a gym and a chiropractor... found the gym just a half a block of where I am staying...so I will go tomorrow for a work out...after my coffee and time to read my new daily newspaper...International Herald Tribune.
I will be in Porto until Sunday afternoon...I am going to take in a special concert at the local Cathedral on Saturday night..then leave for Vigo, North Spain for Sunday and Monday.
Just in case you want to know..Tuesday and Wednesday I will be in Zaragosa....then Thursday in Leida...Friday in Barcelona...I will leave Barcelona on Saturday to Zurch, Switzerland...and spend the night there...and then board my flight for L.A. on Sunday night for an all night ride home to arrive late Monday afternoon, April 17th...
I have much more to talk to you about...but will not do it here...I am at the local internet cafe...and there is smoke everywhere....besides I need some time to think....
What do you think of this shot?
A tornedo hit the central part of the country yesterday...I walked around town a bit and took in a movie...I had to travel about 25 miles to see Casanova...great movie...well done...it was entertaining...and what a plot...
Today...I took in a museum or two....went looking for a gym and a chiropractor... found the gym just a half a block of where I am staying...so I will go tomorrow for a work out...after my coffee and time to read my new daily newspaper...International Herald Tribune.
I will be in Porto until Sunday afternoon...I am going to take in a special concert at the local Cathedral on Saturday night..then leave for Vigo, North Spain for Sunday and Monday.
Just in case you want to know..Tuesday and Wednesday I will be in Zaragosa....then Thursday in Leida...Friday in Barcelona...I will leave Barcelona on Saturday to Zurch, Switzerland...and spend the night there...and then board my flight for L.A. on Sunday night for an all night ride home to arrive late Monday afternoon, April 17th...
I have much more to talk to you about...but will not do it here...I am at the local internet cafe...and there is smoke everywhere....besides I need some time to think....
What do you think of this shot?
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Monday in Porto
April 3, 2006
I met with a friend from the Cathedral for a some quick sight seeing. We met at the local Cathedral. I was very embarrassed… Now I have to paint the picture for you….He is a mild mannered man…very good looking, medium frame but well built…Bluish brownish eyes…and short hair. He pulled up in his nice small sports car…I got in and we greeted…Once in the car….I tried to close the door…I not only tried but it seems like I wrestled with the door forever…until he gently informed me….I have to close the door for you...…I said to myself….what a gentleman…I thought he was going to get off the car to close the door….no…all he had to do was push a button and the door would close…it was a Peugeot…that is the way the doors closed…I felt like an idiot… (if I was trying to make an impression….then I blew it…)
A young and rising star in classical voice in Portugal took time from his busy schedule to take me on a short sight seeing adventure…What a treat! His name is Pedro Telles…He is very handsome and in his mid thirties. He was born and raised in Porto…a northern city of Portugal. He is the choir conductor at the choir at the church, a musical instructor and further voice studying in Austria.
He took me for a ride on the bank of the Douro…to an area of town called Vila Nova de Gaia….On one side of the waterway are many sales outlets for the wine industry. We parked our car there and then walked across the bridge and had lovely lunch on a restaurant-café about 30 yards from the water.
It is a picture perfect day. Not a cloud in the sky and the temperature rose to 75 degrees. We talked for a few hours and then we went over to the Igreja de San Francisco (Church of San Francisco). The Gothic Church of Saint Francis, reached by steps leading up from the waterfront, was built between 1383 and 1410. The vault pillars and columns are lined with gilded woodwork. The church is now a national monument. Services are not%2
Porto
April 2, 2006
Wow…what a night sleep…Eight hours and all I wanted to do was lay in bed all day…. In Porto there are no English-speaking cable channels like there were in Lisbon. So up I go.
Went to the Cathedral for Mass…. what a treat…they had a full sung mass with choir and all. It was magnificent…great acoustics!
Following Mass, I went and congratulated the choir director and asked if they had a CD I could buy. They had a DVD and I bought it. He also invited me to lunch on Monday…I will keep you informed.
Went to Brago, which is about 35 miles away but on the train it took 55 minutes. Not much time there, but got a chance to visit…. church high on the hillsides. Again the people are most helpful. I do not know Portuguese so it can be difficult. Got home at about 10:30 p.m. and I am wiped out.
One the way down to Braga.. I could not keep my eyes open. I think it is a combination of exhaustion and relaxation. Anyway, that is why I am here…right?
I was thinking a lot today….Monday will mark the final thirty days of my sabbatical. It really flew.
According to the dictionary, “a sabbatical is a period of leave from work for research, study, or travel, often with pay and usually granted to college professors every seven years”. I cannot explain everything I have learned or experienced because it is not over yet.
But, one thing I do know is that my life is changed for ever. When I return to my office on May 8th, things are going to be different. My associate director will run the office operations and the programs. I plan to focus on the larger things…like making contacts and raising funds. But I plan to do other things as the President of the organization….well I said I was not going to get into any details.
For the past two months I have opened up a lot with you. I have shared many things that I ever thought of….I am never really careful about what you know about me. Many executive directors are very careful not to disclose too much information to the community. That is fine. It works for them, but not for me. I am what I am. The most important thing for me is to share as many experiences with you as possible. Who knows how long I will be around….I just want to share%
Wow…what a night sleep…Eight hours and all I wanted to do was lay in bed all day…. In Porto there are no English-speaking cable channels like there were in Lisbon. So up I go.
Went to the Cathedral for Mass…. what a treat…they had a full sung mass with choir and all. It was magnificent…great acoustics!
Following Mass, I went and congratulated the choir director and asked if they had a CD I could buy. They had a DVD and I bought it. He also invited me to lunch on Monday…I will keep you informed.
Went to Brago, which is about 35 miles away but on the train it took 55 minutes. Not much time there, but got a chance to visit…. church high on the hillsides. Again the people are most helpful. I do not know Portuguese so it can be difficult. Got home at about 10:30 p.m. and I am wiped out.
One the way down to Braga.. I could not keep my eyes open. I think it is a combination of exhaustion and relaxation. Anyway, that is why I am here…right?
I was thinking a lot today….Monday will mark the final thirty days of my sabbatical. It really flew.
According to the dictionary, “a sabbatical is a period of leave from work for research, study, or travel, often with pay and usually granted to college professors every seven years”. I cannot explain everything I have learned or experienced because it is not over yet.
But, one thing I do know is that my life is changed for ever. When I return to my office on May 8th, things are going to be different. My associate director will run the office operations and the programs. I plan to focus on the larger things…like making contacts and raising funds. But I plan to do other things as the President of the organization….well I said I was not going to get into any details.
For the past two months I have opened up a lot with you. I have shared many things that I ever thought of….I am never really careful about what you know about me. Many executive directors are very careful not to disclose too much information to the community. That is fine. It works for them, but not for me. I am what I am. The most important thing for me is to share as many experiences with you as possible. Who knows how long I will be around….I just want to share%
Friday, March 31, 2006
Spring has arrived in Lisbon
Well it is been some time since I entered the blog…I have been very busy…walking, walking and walking.
A few days ago, I went downtown and saw the Lisbon contingency of demonstrators
Marching in support of the young workers of France. Those marching were vocal and passionate. But, the crowd was small.
I saw about four young people standing and asked them if they spoke English. Almost all of them did. When I asked why they were not in the protest…they responded that it would not do any good. “Portugal does not pay attention to her people,” a young lady said. The rest of the people agreed. So I challenged them! I asked them why do they not get involved and determine that they do have a voice…well you know me...within a few moments; several other young people joined the crowd and listened. Now it was a small crowd listening to this man from America. As I started to leave, I told them that I would be back in twenty years and would like to see them and ask them what they have done to contribute to change in Portugal. They were very gratified to have had the discussion with me and thanked me.
As I walked away, I realized how happy I was…. how much joy it brings to me to help clarify some vision for others. This experience has made me realize that I am capable of doing that and how I must embrace that part of who I am. I share this with you because for most of my life I have denied that part of me….This is a personal learning experience and I thought I would share it with you.
Yesterday, Vanda and I spent the entire day…walking…we visited the castle of King George… It was pretty impressive. As usual, I approached someone who was speaking English and found them to be from San Francisco. They were not Giant fans and good for them. We really had a great time. I took some great quality photos, many of them of Vanda. I realized that I really enjoy photography. It is very relaxing and allows me to share some of my personal moments with special people such as you. I hope you have%2
Last Day´s in Lisbon
Friday, March 31, 2006
Well it is been some time since I entered the blog…I have been very busy…walking, walking and walking.
A few days ago, I went downtown and saw the Lisbon contingency of demonstrators
Marching in support of the young workers of France. Those marching were vocal and passionate. But, the crowd was small.
I saw about four young people standing and asked them if they spoke English. Almost all of them did. When I asked why they were not in the protest…they responded that it would not do any good. “Portugal does not pay attention to her people,” a young lady said. The rest of the people agreed. So I challenged them! I asked them why do they not get involved and determine that they do have a voice…well you know me...within a few moments; several other young people joined the crowd and listened. Now it was a small crowd listening to this man from America. As I started to leave, I told them that I would be back in twenty years and would like to see them and ask them what they have done to contribute to change in Portugal. They were very gratified to have had the discussion with me and thanked me.
As I walked away, I realized how happy I was…. how much joy it brings to me to help clarify some vision for others. This experience has made me realize that I am capable of doing that and how I must embrace that part of who I am. I share this with you because for most of my life I have denied that part of me….This is a personal learning experience and I thought I would share it with you.
Yesterday, Vanda and I spent the entire day…walking…we visited the castle of King George… It was pretty impressive. As usual, I approached someone who was speaking English and found them to be from San Francisco. They were not Giant fans and good for them. We really had a great time. I took some great quality photos, many of them of Vanda. I realized that I really enjoy photography. It is very relaxing and allows me to share some of my personal moments with special people such as you. I hope you have enjoyed my photos as much as I have enjoyed taking them.
My photo blog has had almost 4,000 hits within the past six and half weeks.
I will be leaving Lisbon tomorrow for Porto, which is in Northern Portugal. I do not think I will be going to Rome after all. It is a bit much…I am tired. I have lost 10 pounds. The trick is to keep the weight off. I want to find some small towns in the north so I could rest up and write….
Prior to my departure on April 16th back to L.A. I would like to visit Father Juan Santillan who is buried in Northern Spain. I would like to pay my respects to him on behalf of The Wall-Las Memorias Project and the many other friends and family members that he has left on this earth. We will see if I will be able to visit him. I will keep you informed.
I was constantly told and it was suggested that I was going to go through a transformation while I am gone from the day-to-day work of the office. I am experiencing much on a daily basis and sometimes I do not realize it until several days later. I am changed and will continue to change. I hope to capture some of that in the next several days. I would like to share it with you…if I do not bore you…
Tomorrow is April fools day. Ah… and Monday it is time for Dodger baseball…boy am I going to miss that…This will be the first opening day that I will miss in about twenty five years or so. It is problematic for me since there is no twelve-step meeting for baseball fans in Europe.
Will talk to you soon…..
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