In this Journal, I will attempt to strip away my protective veneer to view and communicate honestly what the truth is as I perceive it. My intent is to grow, for without an honest evaluation of the truth, how else can one fully absorb life's more difficult lessons and benefit by them. If I do this in secret, then I am still hiding behind a protective veneer, so it is being published online. If you find this Journal, you are welcome to read it and hopefully grow from it as well.



Tuesday, May 13, 2025

At Age 80, Looking Back

What I am most proud of is my 60-year-marriage to Anne, and the blessings of our sons Kyle, Kevin and Clayton, blessings not just to us, but to the world.

Of my success in business, real estate, radio and writing, none have been mine but that of very talented people who actively participated with me. Today, in our inspiring writings Jon Barnes and Yanin Ontiveros are great examples.

Of my public work, I am proud of my activism on behalf of the Vietnamese Boat People. But I am most proud of my 303 peace demonstrations over six years, attempting to stop the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars. Thank you to Korean War veteran John Fortier for joining me in many of them.

I am a strong believer in miracles because I have witnessed them, and in angels because I have met them. Thank you to my dear friend Mary Ellen Schesser for her devoted support.

Now I would like to share some random thoughts:

I donate to charities anonymously because the donation is not about me, but about each cause.

My favorite sport is not major league anything, but peewee league everything. I cheer for both teams. 

I seek the best in everyone. I give advice to no-one.

Rarely do I buy the last item on a store shelf because I don't want anyone to be disappointed.

The only childhood birthday party I recall was when I turned 11 (1956), so it is my favorite.

My favorite movies are Gandhi (1982) and Titanic (1997).

I love rock 'n' roll, especially the oldies, but usually listen to the current hits.

When I was 13, I jumped off the Inglewood High School high dive. (I never did it again).

When I enrolled at El Camino College (1962), the tuition was $3 a semester.

We bought our first home in San Jose, CA. in 1968. The price was $27,500.

Every day I look for something to make me laugh, and each day I find it.

I am far from perfect, but I am there when someone needs me.

Without hesitation, I tell others that I love them.

In recent years, I have been opening my heart to all, and it has filled my life with love beyond anything I had ever imagined.

With Love To All - Dick

Note: I formatted this piece in the style of Tina Canales' obit (Los Angeles Times, 5/11/25)

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