Sunday after Thanksgiving, 2000. My last bellman shift at the hotel in Del Mar.
I had about $200 in fives and ones in my pocket, and everything I owned already packed in the back of my pickup truck.
I said goodbye to my colleagues, some of whom were my best friends, got in my truck, and headed north.
Two months previously, my father had died of AIDS, and it shifted my entire world focus. I was no longer interested in riding the perfect wave, drinking the perfect beer, or watching the perfect jump shot on TV.
I wanted more. From my environment. From my friends. From my community. From my career. From myself.
A day later, I arrived in the Bay Area, and I've been here ever since.
Twenty years!
Twenty years as a teacher, a learner, a writer, a reader, a rider of public of transportation, a speaker, a political activist, a friend, a trusted colleague, a father, a musician, a community member, an urban serendipitist, a coach, a facilitator, a leader, a cultivator, an architect, a listener, a thinker, a supporter, an advocate, a lover of humanity.
I've built a career on connecting with myself and connecting with other people. Developing meaningful relationships. Staying curious. Centering trust and empathy, compassion and belonging.
Doing what I know is right. For me and for others.