If humans had taglines, what would yours be?

I believe in kindness & politeness even when someone isn’t. That’d be my tag line along with living in the here & the now. No matter how easy or hard it is.

By being kind you meet & get to know things when you’re traveling that you won’t if you’re mean & ungrateful. I always find the hidden gems when traveling. It’s something I’m grateful for.

By being kind you get kindness in return. No matter where you are. If you mistreat people with disrespect you often get a cold shoulder & bad service.

By being sweet & respectful you get the same in return. So be kind.

List three books that have had an impact on you. Why?

First, I have to say that “Infinite Jest” by David Foster Wallace had a huge impact on my 20’s. The story though long with footnotes has a very clear point. That in the end we’re not as different as we want to seem. If you’re a drug addict or a preppie; your life can end in their place & or on the “right” side of town.

“White Teeth” by Zadie Smith, deals with lower class London in the most powerful way. The story starts off with a ricochet of circumstances that are hard to fathom. As you get deeper in the book you understand her title & why she chose it.

“The History of Bees” by Maja Lunde grapples with our extinction in a powerful, no holds barred book. I really enjoyed reading it but found it depressingly real. In a good way of course. If you think it can’t happen, think again.

I’m an avid reader so to pick 3 books was hard. I feel that they all gave me knowledge about subjects I hadn’t thought of before. That’s why I read paper books & not electronic. I also believe in the independent bookstore & keeping them alive.

Describe one simple thing you do that brings joy to your life.

I think that volunteering in your local community is the most important thing you can do. Because of the reward of meeting others & making a difference.

By volunteering you learn what’s happening in your community & make a difference in someone’s life. I have been doing a passion project for the last 2 years, where I volunteer & help people with cognitive decline.

My dear Farmor developed dementia so working with others that have it is important to me. I’m also hoping to become an art therapist & working with people with cognitive decline gives me an insight on how I can help in the future.

I’ve worked in my local community as a volunteer on both coasts in the US & now I’m doing it here. It always repays in ten fold & you learn about yourself as well.

I think that having a passion project is also something that gives great satisfaction. By working on something you’re passionate about also gives back to you.