Meet Erick from Aliso Viejo, CA.
The one word that best describes Erick's life today is "Unstable." The reason Erick chose this word is because he is going through a sea of changes. If Erick could change one thing in the world, he would "Want to put an end to hunger." The way he would go about making this change is through education and information. He would like to better understand the needs and opportunities. One year from today, Erick would like to be making music. If Erick's life were a movie, it would be about traveling the world making new friends who become like family. He can see himself experiencing different cultures, people and music from around the world. The title of Erick's movie would be called "Boats Go Places." I met Erick as he was standing in front of Laguna Nursery with the trees, plants and waterfalls in the background. I rode by Erick and though he had an original cool style. I was on my way to interview another person but he no showed on me so I turned my bike around and asked Erick if I could take his picture of him and ask a few questions. Erick seems like a very sensitive and contemplative young lad. When I heard about his love for music, he shared with me that he sings in a choir. I asked if he knows Joey from Koffee Klatch and he chuckled and with a smile on his face said "everyone knows Joey." Our conversation was brief but was intriguing and interesting. I'm sure Erick has more to say and if I had more time, I would have been drawn into his story. Continue your pursuit of music making and share your voice with the world, we need to hear from you Erick!
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Meet Joey from Laguna Beach, CA.
The one word that best describes Joey's life today is "Inspirational." He chose this word because he loves to inspire and be inspired. If Joey could change one thing in the world, he would "Change the mindset of people so they are able to see where they are doesn't mean they need to stay where they're at." The way he would go about making this change is to broaden people's perspective through mentoring and creating dialog. One year from today, Joey would like to have graduated from Full Sail College and be working in the music business in L.A. and start a non profit. If Joey's life were a movie, it would be about overcoming a life of abuse through mentors like Eric Thomas and others who have helped him to see his life for what it could be and meant to be. The title of his movie would be called "Beginning Life At A Dead End." I met Joey at one of the coolest cafe's in Laguna Beach, The Koffee Klatch. Joey is the General Manager and a full time student who is pursuing a career in the music industry. Joey was taking a break from his homework with his tutor and friend Q, whom I met and interviewed back on Day 212 of 365. We had a brief conversation before they went outside to breathe the fresh air and when Joey came back, he was fully engaged in our conversation and had an amazing story to tell! I was most impressed by Joey's ability to connect our conversation with meaningful and thoughtful insights about life's most difficult issues. He is highly intelligent and extremely perceptive of his world and the world around him. Music played a big part in his life growing up as an abused child. He remembers listening to the lyrics of these songs that understood what he was going through. The connection he felt to music is what helped him get through those difficult years and he wants to help others as they are facing challenges in their lives. Eric Thomas has been a huge influence in his life and he is thankful for his mentorship and the example he is living. Napolean Hill has influenced Joey through many of his books and principles that helped make him the successful man who pioneered the personal success movement. Joey shared with me that he feels compelled to work hard to fulfill his passion and purpose in life. He sleeps only a couple hours a day but doesn't complain or want people to feel sorry for him. His motivation and drive are piercing and intense! I am confident Joey will achieve all that he sets out to accomplish as he works towards fulfilling his goals and dreams. Thanks Joey for sharing your amazing story with our community. Meet Walli from Laguna Hills, CA.
The one word that best describes Walli's life today is "Solace." The reason Walli chose this word is because she just stepped off a plane from New Orleans. If Walli could change one thing in the world, she would "Want people to be more tolerant of other peoples views." The way she would go about making this change is through education and dialog. One year from today, Walli would like to figure out who she is. If Walli's life were a movie, it would be about a women who is a fixer and a caregiver and an enabler. The title of her movie would be called "The Journey Never Ends." I met Walli as she was sitting on the deck watching the the magnificent sunset. Walli was happy to be home after spending a few months in New Orleans. Walli is a woman who appreciates the beauty of the beaches. Walli seems like a woman with a sweet sensitive soul who loves and cares about people. I learned that she is 80 years old and yet so young at heart. We talked about the journey of life and trying to figure out who we are and how we fit into this big world of ours. She is very accepting of people and has taken care of others for most of her life. Our conversation was encouraging and heartfelt. I'm sure Walli will figure out who she is on her journey of discovery. Thanks Walli for sharing your story with me. Meet Daniel from Laguna Hills, CA.
The one word that best describes Daniel's life today is "Perfect." The reason Daniel chose this word is because he is right where he is supposed to be and there is no point in answering this question any different. If Daniel could change one thing in the world, he would "Want to get rid of ignorance." The way he would go about making this change is by speaking up and have the courage to make a difference in the world. One year from today, Daniel would like to be halfway through the book he is writing. If Daniel's life were a movie, it would be about his journey as a writer who is passionate about music and storytelling. The title of his movie would be called "Sketches of the Masterpiece" with the premise being "You are the masterpiece and it's right in front of your eyes." I met Daniel on the lookout deck this afternoon as he was taking pictures of the beautiful sunset. We talked about our camera's and our love for photography. Daniel is a colorful creative man with many opinions. Our conversations were deep and yet diverse. He has a wide vocabulary and knowledge of many subjects which makes for a great conversation. We probably could have spent several hours continuing our conversation. I learned that Daniel has a book or two in his head that he's been working on. The book that is about to be written is a prolific story about creating a masterpiece in your life. As Daniel described the premise of the book, I realized that this message must be told because we all need to hear it. Daniel's active mind is full of wisdom and insights that are brilliant! He has a unique perspective about life that I believe would resonate with the many people I have met this year. Stay the course Daniel and I'll be cheering you on as you work towards completing your book! Meet Crystal from Orange, CA.
The one word that best describes Crystal's life today is "Awesome." The reason why she chose this word is because she is doing what she loves to do. If Crystal could change one thing in the world, she would "Want people to be more careful with how we take care of the environment." The way she would go about making this change is by educating the next generation. One year from today, Crystal would like to be just as happy as she is today. If Crystal's life were a movie, it would be about experiencing everything the world has to offer with eyes wide open and wide awake! The title of her movie would be called "Living Life" and the subtitle would be "Noticing Life." I met Crystal as she was sitting on the beach at Cress St. reading her book about how to speak Italian. I first noticed Crystal sitting on the rocks with her sketch pad in hand and thought the setting would make for a great photo and story. Crystal is a creative who lives in the moment. Her passion for life and exploration is inspiring. She has traveled abroad and will be making a trip to Italy next year to engage in the culture and speak the language. We talked about our travels through Spain and she has hopes of walking the Camino de Santiago. I love talking about my Camino experience, especially with people who have a desire to walk the 790km themselves. Crystal comes to Laguna Beach to be inspired and to fill her creative cup. I'm reminded how lucky we are to live in a community that breathes inspiration and creativity through the beauty of the ocean and the people. Thanks Crystal for sharing your inspiring story. Keep on creating and Buen Camino! Meet Cole & Nikki from San Juan Capistrano, CA.
The one word that best describes Cole's life today is "Life." The reason why Cole chose this word is because he is all about living life big! If Cole could change one thing in the world, he would "Not change anything." One year from today, Cole would like to make it to the end of the year with his friends and his dog. If Cole's life were a movie, it would be about living a life that is ready to blow up in a all areas of his life such as his career, his relationships and his dreams! The title of Cole's movies would be called "Blowing Up." Cole and Nikki are my nephew and niece. We spent Thanksgiving together with our families and they were proudly holding the turkey they cooked for us all. Cole is one cool cat who has the most kind and generous heart to go along with his great looks. When I first met Cole over 17 years ago, he was only 6 years old and he made a lasting impression on me by giving me an action figure as a gift. I've shared many experiences with Cole. From surfing in Hawaii to snowboarding the deep powder of Mt. Bachelor. Cole is a natural athlete and has his black belt among other things. He rides a Harley and is the best little brother a sister could have. Cole is about to step into a career selling real estate with his father and I'm sure they will become a huge success! I'm excited to see how this next chapter of Cole's life unfolds. Meet James & Laura from Arizona.
The one word that best describes James and Laura's life is "Blessed." The reason why they chose this word is because they have endured and persevered through many challenges and changes. If James and Laura could change one thing in the world, they would "Help the less fortunate and be less judgmental." The way they will go about making this change is by giving to others unconditionally. One year from today, James and Laura would like to move into a home in California and James would like to be working as a police officer. If James and Laura's life were a movie, it would be about a young family who have had to move often and are starting a new life together. The title of their movie would be called "And This Is Life." I met James and Laura on the beach as the sun was setting. James and Laura were super friendly and were excited to part of our one person a day. I learned that James was in the military and is excited to be home with his family. James and Laura have made many sacrifices to serve our country and are looking forward to this next chapter of their lives. There is something special about our service men and women, they are selfless and have servants hearts. James and Laura epitomize selflessness and servant hood. I will be cheering for James and Laura as they pursue a new life day by day. Most of us know someone in the military and understand the struggles they face when they return home. I encourage us all to take time to hear their stories and learn how we can serve them. Thank you James and Laura for your service to our country and for allowing me to hear part of your story and share you with our community. Meet Jamal and Amber from Arizona.
The one word that best describes Jamal and Amber's life today is "Adventure." The reason they chose this word is because every day they are experiencing something new. If Jamal and Amber could change one thing in the world, they would "Want PEACE and for every person to be equal and for everyone to be kind to one another." The way they would go about making this change is to do unto others as they would have them do unto them. One year from today, Jamal and Amber would like to move to a bigger home, purchase a second car so they'll have transportation for their children to play sports. If Jamal and Amber's life were a movie, it would be a drama about how they have had to start over in their lives as they build a better life for their family. It would be about them experience a lot of firsts everyday with God at the center of everything they do. The title of their movie would be called "Journey Of Us." I met Jamal and Amber on the beach tonight as their young son was trying to take a picture of them I offered to take their photo and was captivated by their outgoing and thankful personalities. Jamal was very passionate about changing the world through peace and unity. We talked about a peace plan and how he/we could go about making this happen. The solution to this global problem is complex yet could be so simple. As I was leaving, Jamal and Amber's 3 year old daughter said she likes to take pictures so I knelt down to place my big DSLR camera in her hands, but instead she walked in front of me and posed like she was a professional model. It was amazing for a couple reasons; #1 Her definition of taking pictures was the exact opposite of my definition, #2 She had the most perfect pose with her head titled just slightly and a beautiful smile. I loved watching Jamal and Amber's little girl take center stage with confidence and innocence. There is something special about seeing children express themselves in a way that reflects the love and care they experience from their parents. Continue to love your children with all your hearts Jamal and Amber, this is the first step in changing the world one child at a time. Meet Kieran from Carlsbad, CA.
The one word that best describes Kieran's life today is "Impactful." The reason why Kieran chose this word is because God is impacting his life. If Kieran could change one thing in the world, he would "Bring more light into the world." The way he would go about making this change is by showing peoples God's love. One year from today, Kieran would like to see growth in his relationships. If Kieran's life were a movie it would be about his relationship with God and how he was miraculously healed from a failed foot surgery that put him in a wheelchair for 4 years. The title of his movie would be called "FEET." I met Kieran this morning as I was running on the beach. I made a mental note of Kieran as passed by him and told myself I would stop and talk to him if he was still there on my way back home. Sure enough, 30 minutes later Kieran was sitting on the beach writing in his journal, which I thought was his homework. I asked him if he was doing homework and he said "no, I'm spending time with God." His bible was on the sand in front of him and his journal and pen was in his hand. I asked Kieran if he would be interested in sharing his story and being our one person for the day, which he gladly accepted. I made some assumptions that just because he lives in Carlsbad that he is a surfer, but he is not. That question led me ask Kieran why he chose the title "FEET" for his movie and he shared the reason behind this title. Several years ago, Kieran had a low risk surgery to repair his flat feet. The surgery did not go well and he ended up in a wheelchair for 4 years. He shared with me that he had very little faith that God could or would heal him. Just over 3 years ago, Kieran was at a church retreat and one of the counselors prayed for Kieran and encouraged him to trust God and fully believe he can be healed. That was a turning point in Kieran's life and in his relationship with God. He was healed and has been able to get up out of the wheelchair and walk again. Kieran is only 19 years old but has the faith of a man beyond his years. I noticed his tattoo on his foot Romans 10:15 “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” I shared with Kieran that my wife has a bone spur on the bottom of her foot and she hasn't been able to walk for several weeks. I asked Kieran to pray for Kimberly's foot so he stopped right there on the beach and put his hand on my shoulder and prayed for my wife. Wow, pretty powerful! I'm believing Kimberly's foot will be healed and she'll be back on her feet again. I continue to be amazed by the love, care and concern people have for each other. It seems like the closer I get to the end of the year of meeting one new person a day, I'm having these supernatural encounters with spectacular people! Thank you Kieran for your love, care, concern and prayers for my wife and for sharing your story with our community. Meet Lot from Namibia Africa.
The one word that best describes Lot's life today is "Marvelous." The reason Lot chose this word is because of the beauty he is experiencing in Laguna Beach today. If Lot could change one thing in the world, he would "Want there to be peace in the world and live as a global village." The way he would go about making this happen is to change himself first and be the change he wants to see in the world. One year from today, Lot would like for the world to be more peaceful and eliminate terrorism. If Lot's life were a movie, it would be about working towards a peaceful world where we are unified and coming together to put an end to war and terrorism. The title of Lot's movie would be called "The Road Less Traveled." I met Lot this morning while he was walking along the beach with his friends. They are visiting Laguna Beach for the first time before heading up the coast. Lot is very passionate about bringing peace to the world. He is well informed and educated about many issues we are facing in the world such as terrorism, corruption and diseases. Lot is an attorney in Namibia and helps to bring justice to his country. We walked along the beach and talked for several minutes about bringing peace to the world and ending war. The conversation took a turn as we talked about King David and his son King Solomon and their lives of incredible success and disastrous failures. With all the success both of these men had, "it is all vanity" said Lot as he was referring to the book of Ecclesiastes. Being this was Lot's first time in America, we both realized that we shared a common bond of bringing peace and unity to the world. We realized that it doesn't matter what part of the world you live in, or what political party you belong to or what religious beliefs you have or what color your skin is, we all want to get along with each other and live in peace. Thanks Lot for sharing your vision of peace in the world and spreading African love in Laguna Beach. |