رونوشت کامل The Cheating Wife: Trading Love For Gold And Paying The Ultimate Price

wearing a ring. It's Johnson. Now I've had that 71 00:04:15.960 --> 00:04:19.120 name for eight years. I have to admit I didn't 72 00:04:19.199 --> 00:04:22.120 choose well after we split up, and I went through 73 00:04:22.160 --> 00:04:25.040 some tough times before I found a good match again. 74 00:04:25.360 --> 00:04:27.920 It could have been you, you know, if I cut 75 00:04:27.920 --> 00:04:31.279 her off, perhaps more sharply than I meant to. Kara, 76 00:04:31.600 --> 00:04:35.000 let's not talk about the past. Kara was paying attention, 77 00:04:35.279 --> 00:04:38.120 and she caught the brief pain in my eyes. It 78 00:04:38.279 --> 00:04:41.639 surprised me to see her understanding, as if she remembered 79 00:04:41.680 --> 00:04:45.800 old times too. Sorry, would you like to have dinner tonight? 80 00:04:46.120 --> 00:04:49.399 I promise not to bring up old hurts. I just 81 00:04:49.519 --> 00:04:53.360 want to hear how you've been instead of reading about it. Surprisingly, 82 00:04:53.639 --> 00:04:57.000 I thought about saying yes, But before I could answer, 83 00:04:57.120 --> 00:05:00.879 Ashley spoke up, Papa, why not invite her to the wedding. 84 00:05:01.199 --> 00:05:04.160 Then you wouldn't be alone? And it seems like you 85 00:05:04.240 --> 00:05:08.040 get along, ash I won't be alone. The wedding party 86 00:05:08.120 --> 00:05:12.240 will be with me. Besides, it's short notice. I'm sure 87 00:05:12.319 --> 00:05:16.360 missus Johnson wouldn't. I'd love to. I haven't been to 88 00:05:16.439 --> 00:05:19.800 a good wedding in years. She looked at me, seeing 89 00:05:19.920 --> 00:05:23.519 my hesitation. If it wouldn't be a bother, of course, 90 00:05:23.639 --> 00:05:26.600 I wouldn't want to be in the way. Thinking it over, 91 00:05:26.879 --> 00:05:30.240 I felt surprisingly calm. It was a long time ago. 92 00:05:30.600 --> 00:05:34.079 Please come and bring your husband. We can share stories 93 00:05:34.120 --> 00:05:37.879 about you. A thoughtful look crossed her face. I'm afraid 94 00:05:37.920 --> 00:05:40.600 he isn't with me on this trip, so it will 95 00:05:40.759 --> 00:05:43.800 just be me if you accept. But Steve, aren't you 96 00:05:43.879 --> 00:05:47.000 cutting it close? Don't you have a business event the 97 00:05:47.040 --> 00:05:51.120 next day? Curious how she knew that, I nodded, I'm 98 00:05:51.160 --> 00:05:54.680 going to the wedding, Kara, I'm not joining the honeymoon. 99 00:05:55.000 --> 00:05:58.000 I'll be free for dinner. How did you find out? 100 00:05:58.399 --> 00:06:02.800 Staying secretive shed she just smiled oh, I read a lot, 101 00:06:02.879 --> 00:06:05.839 and it has been in the news lately. She glanced 102 00:06:05.879 --> 00:06:09.399 at her watch, a frown appearing. Speaking of work, I 103 00:06:09.560 --> 00:06:13.279 need to take care of some things. Networking is important 104 00:06:13.360 --> 00:06:17.160 in real estate. Here's my card, Steve. If you're sure 105 00:06:17.240 --> 00:06:21.439 about the wedding invitation, call me. Ashley Mickey. It was 106 00:06:21.600 --> 00:06:24.240 nice to meet you. Your dad is a good man. 107 00:06:24.600 --> 00:06:28.319 Taking a chance. She lightly touched my cheek the first 108 00:06:28.399 --> 00:06:32.000 contact we had in over twenty years, and walked away. 109 00:06:32.399 --> 00:06:35.560 I found out later that she went to the closest restroom, 110 00:06:35.759 --> 00:06:39.360 locked the door, leaned against it, and tried to calm herself. 111 00:06:39.720 --> 00:06:43.360 Seeing her ex unexpectedly brought up old feelings in her. 112 00:06:43.639 --> 00:06:46.399 She later told Ashley that it didn't help that I 113 00:06:46.480 --> 00:06:50.279 looked well put together. No, I wasn't in perfect shape, 114 00:06:50.319 --> 00:06:52.839 and she had spent enough time at the gym to 115 00:06:52.920 --> 00:06:55.680 know what that meant. But I was in better shape 116 00:06:55.720 --> 00:06:58.879 than I was back then. I had a new stylish haircut, 117 00:06:59.079 --> 00:07:02.959 and the few gray made me appear like a successful businessman. 118 00:07:03.240 --> 00:07:06.240 I was very different from the young man she once knew. 119 00:07:06.399 --> 00:07:09.959 I sat there watching her walk away, lost in thought. 120 00:07:10.240 --> 00:07:14.279 Mikey interrupted my memories. So that was your first wife, 121 00:07:14.759 --> 00:07:17.480 was she very young when you got married. Don't be 122 00:07:17.639 --> 00:07:21.480 deceived by her looks. She's actually two years older than 123 00:07:21.560 --> 00:07:25.560 I am. She's forty one now. She's just always taken 124 00:07:25.639 --> 00:07:29.319 good care of herself. Looking good mattered to her. This 125 00:07:29.600 --> 00:07:32.079 is the first I am hearing about you being married 126 00:07:32.120 --> 00:07:36.279 before Maria and Sandy. What happened? Ashley saw her mistake 127 00:07:36.360 --> 00:07:40.680 in bringing up my past, noticing my expression as I reminisced. 128 00:07:41.000 --> 00:07:44.279 In short, she found someone she thought was a better match, 129 00:07:44.319 --> 00:07:48.120 and she quickly moved on. They married, but divorced seven 130 00:07:48.160 --> 00:07:51.120 months later when she found out he was not faithful. 131 00:07:51.399 --> 00:07:54.360 She met two more partners who didn't last more than 132 00:07:54.399 --> 00:07:57.800 two years each. Now she's been happily married for a 133 00:07:57.800 --> 00:08:01.040 while to the man she's with now. Maybe she finally 134 00:08:01.120 --> 00:08:04.279 found what she was looking for. Micky was putting the 135 00:08:04.319 --> 00:08:08.079 pieces together as he spoke. So she's been married five 136 00:08:08.240 --> 00:08:12.120 times as far as I know, maybe more. I don't 137 00:08:12.199 --> 00:08:15.199 keep track of her much, but my cousin Phil's mean, 138 00:08:15.319 --> 00:08:18.240 and when I visit, that's one of the many reasons 139 00:08:18.279

--> 00:08:23.560 I don't visit very often. Ashley apologized, Sorry, Papa. You 140 00:08:23.680 --> 00:08:26.480 seem to get along well with her, and she's a 141 00:08:26.600 --> 00:08:30.160 charming woman. I thought it might be interesting to hear more. 142 00:08:30.439 --> 00:08:33.519 I reached over and held her hands. You see the 143 00:08:33.559 --> 00:08:36.679 good in ever one angel. I think that's a big 144 00:08:36.759 --> 00:08:39.919 reason my son fell in love with you. I feel 145 00:08:39.960 --> 00:08:42.960 the same way. I doubt she will show up, but 146 00:08:43.080 --> 00:08:45.759 if she does, I'll be in such a good mood 147 00:08:45.799 --> 00:08:49.799 that nothing could spoil it. Now, let's talk about nicer things. 148 00:08:50.080 --> 00:08:53.519 Have you decided to let Micky go and consider me instead? 149 00:08:53.960 --> 00:08:58.840 She laughed, and Miggie smiled. Not yet. If he doesn't change, though, 150 00:08:59.080 --> 00:09:02.240 I might think of it. Older guys tend to be 151 00:09:02.360 --> 00:09:05.879 more flexible. Then they began talking about the wedding, and 152 00:09:06.000 --> 00:09:09.480 all thoughts of my ex disappeared. Micky met Ashleigh in 153 00:09:09.559 --> 00:09:12.879 college and it was love at first sight. She moved 154 00:09:12.919 --> 00:09:15.679 into his apartment at the start of their junior year, 155 00:09:15.960 --> 00:09:19.000 and they hadn't been a part since Her parents were 156 00:09:19.080 --> 00:09:22.399 not sure about her being with someone from a different background, 157 00:09:22.720 --> 00:09:25.000 but when they found out he was my son, they 158 00:09:25.039 --> 00:09:28.279 quickly warmed up to him. This made me cautious of them. 159 00:09:28.600 --> 00:09:31.480 I got Mickey when he was nine. When I married 160 00:09:31.519 --> 00:09:35.360 his mother, his mother was long gone. We didn't last 161 00:09:35.440 --> 00:09:39.000 for years, but I had adopted Mickey during our second year, 162 00:09:39.080 --> 00:09:41.600 and he wanted to stay with me. I didn't have 163 00:09:41.720 --> 00:09:45.120 much money at that time, but things started to improve. 164 00:09:45.240 --> 00:09:48.120 When she left for Costa Rica to be with someone else. 165 00:09:48.480 --> 00:09:51.240 I filed for divorce, saying she had left, and I 166 00:09:51.360 --> 00:09:54.360 got full custody of Mickey until she could be found. 167 00:09:54.559 --> 00:09:57.000 It took a year and a half to locate her. 168 00:09:57.279 --> 00:10:00.320 By then, the divorce was finalized and I I had 169 00:10:00.320 --> 00:10:05.279 complete custody. She didn't even get visiting rights. Mickey struggled 170 00:10:05.320 --> 00:10:08.279 a lot. He had just turned eleven and for a 171 00:10:08.320 --> 00:10:10.799 long time it had been just him and his mom. 172 00:10:11.120 --> 00:10:13.600 It took a few years of therapy to help him 173 00:10:13.639 --> 00:10:17.480 feel better. When he finally seemed happier, she came back, 174 00:10:17.559 --> 00:10:20.639 wanting him to move to Costa Rica and live with her. 175 00:10:20.879 --> 00:10:23.879 I didn't realize how much he had grown up until 176 00:10:23.919 --> 00:10:27.320 that point, and some of what he said was quite surprising. 177 00:10:27.639 --> 00:10:31.600 She hired a lawyer but didn't succeed. When he turned eighteen, 178 00:10:31.919 --> 00:10:34.639 he went to visit her. The visit was planned for 179 00:10:34.720 --> 00:10:37.720 two weeks, but he came back in just four days. 180 00:10:38.200 --> 00:10:41.519 You wouldn't believe how she is now. Dad. She looks 181 00:10:41.559 --> 00:10:44.840 a lot older. They have a small farm and struggled 182 00:10:44.840 --> 00:10:48.679 to get by. There's no electricity and goats roam around 183 00:10:48.720 --> 00:10:51.720 the house. Her husband tried to act tough, and I 184 00:10:51.960 --> 00:10:54.480 was glad for the martial arts training you got me. 185 00:10:54.840 --> 00:10:57.759 I handled him easily, but he told me to leave. 186 00:10:58.080 --> 00:11:01.639 I feel really sorry for my little sisters. When I 187 00:11:01.759 --> 00:11:04.519 got to the airport, Mom asked me if I had 188 00:11:04.559 --> 00:11:07.519 any money. I gave her everything you had given me 189 00:11:07.679 --> 00:11:10.399 for the trip from there. I didn't even know she 190 00:11:10.480 --> 00:11:13.639 had a son for four months, and when I found out, 191 00:11:13.919 --> 00:11:16.960 I was surprised. I was happy to know her better 192 00:11:17.000 --> 00:11:19.720 and insist did her son join us on our outings. 193 00:11:20.000 --> 00:11:22.399 He was a shy little boy and it took him 194 00:11:22.440 --> 00:11:25.279 a while to warm up to me. Our shared love 195 00:11:25.360 --> 00:11:28.799 of baseball helped us bond. I helped support a team 196 00:11:28.919 --> 00:11:31.759 so he could play. I took him to practice and 197 00:11:31.840 --> 00:11:35.519 attended all his games. He became a good shortstop and 198 00:11:35.639 --> 00:11:39.759 received college offers playing well thanks to my support. I 199 00:11:39.799 --> 00:11:42.840 wouldn't take a scholarship from anyone else when I could 200 00:11:42.879 --> 00:11:46.440 pay for his school myself. He even had two offers 201 00:11:46.480 --> 00:11:49.399 from Major League teams, but he was smart enough to 202 00:11:49.519 --> 00:11:52.279 know the odds and preferred to aim for an MBA, 203 00:11:52.639 --> 00:11:56.519 planning to take over the family business when I retired. 204 00:11:56.840 --> 00:12:00.200 Ashley eventually completed her degree and came to work work 205 00:12:00.240 --> 00:12:03.600 with me in the family business. She knew enough about 206 00:12:03.639 --> 00:12:07.080 it to help things run smoothly. My business had grown 207 00:12:07.159 --> 00:12:10.039 a lot and was almost too much to handle. What 208 00:12:10.320 --> 00:12:14.759 business I owned a chain of successful grocery stores, focusing

209 00:12:14.840 --> 00:12:17.679 on areas where many big shops didn't want to go. 210 00:12:17.960 --> 00:12:20.759 Before that, I had a steady job as a shipping 211 00:12:20.840 --> 00:12:24.039 manager in a large factory, plus a small farm that 212 00:12:24.159 --> 00:12:27.039 I loved. I worked hard to make it better and 213 00:12:27.120 --> 00:12:30.960 to produce more crops. I married a woman from the factory. 214 00:12:31.240 --> 00:12:34.840 Everyone teased me playfully about being lucky, and I agreed 215 00:12:34.919 --> 00:12:38.639 with them. She worked in the office, always looking sharp 216 00:12:38.759 --> 00:12:42.360 and professional, even though she didn't need to. She often 217 00:12:42.440 --> 00:12:45.519 wore dresses or skirts that looked great on her. We 218 00:12:45.679 --> 00:12:49.759 met while solving some paperwork problems. Some friends warned me 219 00:12:49.840 --> 00:12:52.960 that she cared too much about material things, but I 220 00:12:53.039 --> 00:12:56.559 thought that was just jealousy. I spent time charming her 221 00:12:56.720 --> 00:12:59.799 until she said yes to my proposal. Our wedding was 222 00:13:00.120 --> 00:13:03.360 all but beautiful. We went to Florida for our honeymoon, 223 00:13:03.679 --> 00:13:07.120 where her confidence really showed and people noticed her. I 224 00:13:07.200 --> 00:13:11.120 loved her a lot, believing our love was real and strong. 225 00:13:11.399 --> 00:13:14.519 The first three years were amazing. We were so in 226 00:13:14.600 --> 00:13:18.159 tune that we started thinking about having a family. Things 227 00:13:18.200 --> 00:13:20.879 took a turn when I was offered a manager's job, 228 00:13:21.120 --> 00:13:23.639 but I turned it down to focus on my farm. 229 00:13:23.840 --> 00:13:26.480 Kara was not happy with my choice and did not 230 00:13:26.559 --> 00:13:30.159 support me. She was quite upset when I refused the job, 231 00:13:30.279 --> 00:13:33.120 and we had our first big fight since getting married. 232 00:13:33.360 --> 00:13:36.320 Take the job, you wouldn't have the get dirty, would 233 00:13:36.360 --> 00:13:40.039 wear nice clothes every day, and we'd have more time together. 234 00:13:40.320 --> 00:13:43.240 Think of the chances it could bring. We could join 235 00:13:43.360 --> 00:13:46.039 a country club and move up in the world. I 236 00:13:46.159 --> 00:13:50.039 really don't care about the country club. Besides, I can 237 00:13:50.080 --> 00:13:52.720 still earn more with my current job in the farm. 238 00:13:52.960 --> 00:13:55.879 We argued, and in the end I chose the farm 239 00:13:55.960 --> 00:13:59.399 over the country club. Kara did not make the same choice. 240 00:13:59.679 --> 00:14:02.080 At f first, I didn't notice much, as she said 241 00:14:02.120 --> 00:14:05.000 she was going out with her friends on Fridays but 242 00:14:05.240 --> 00:14:08.279 was back home by eight or nine. It seemed to 243 00:14:08.320 --> 00:14:10.879 make her happy, and I was busy with a farm, 244 00:14:11.279 --> 00:14:14.679 so it didn't feel like it took away from our time. Later, 245 00:14:14.960 --> 00:14:17.559 one of her friends took them to the country club, 246 00:14:17.960 --> 00:14:21.120 using her father's membership to get in. This led to 247 00:14:21.159 --> 00:14:24.120 some saturdays spent by the pool. I was at the 248 00:14:24.159 --> 00:14:28.120 farmer's market until three, and she often got home soon after. 249 00:14:28.480 --> 00:14:30.919 I didn't know for a long time that she would 250 00:14:30.919 --> 00:14:35.039 pack more modest clothes but change into something different at 251 00:14:35.080 --> 00:14:37.759 the club That caught the attention of some people there, 252 00:14:38.039 --> 00:14:41.799 leading to friendly chats that grew more complicated and eventually 253 00:14:41.840 --> 00:14:45.039 affected our marriage. The man she got close to was 254 00:14:45.039 --> 00:14:48.159 bold and came from a wealthy background, working for his 255 00:14:48.279 --> 00:14:51.200 father in a job that seemed all about looks. He 256 00:14:51.320 --> 00:14:54.799 wore flashy clothes and drove a nice car, which caught 257 00:14:54.840 --> 00:14:58.320 her attention. I found out by chance. I followed them 258 00:14:58.360 --> 00:15:02.279 to a restaurant and confronted them. A disagreement broke out, 259 00:15:02.360 --> 00:15:05.399 and in the heat of the moment, I reacted. Though 260 00:15:05.440 --> 00:15:08.759 I didn't mean for things to get so complicated, there 261 00:15:08.759 --> 00:15:13.240 were still results from everything that happened. Luckily, security footage 262 00:15:13.320 --> 00:15:17.000 helped explain the situation. Even with that evidence, it was 263 00:15:17.080 --> 00:15:19.919 tough for me because of the influence of his family. 264 00:15:20.279 --> 00:15:23.159 But then a friend who worked in local media became 265 00:15:23.279 --> 00:15:26.759 interested in the story. His family worried that the truth 266 00:15:26.840 --> 00:15:30.919 might hurt his business, decided to settle things quickly. I 267 00:15:31.039 --> 00:15:34.240 got a divorce and Kara moved on. We met one 268 00:15:34.320 --> 00:15:38.159 last time to sign the papers. She tried to make amends, 269 00:15:38.559 --> 00:15:41.720 saying she was sorry, but the trust was broken and 270 00:15:41.759 --> 00:15:45.679 the pain was still too strong. Strangely enough, even while 271 00:15:45.759 --> 00:15:48.639 she was trying to win me back, she continued to 272 00:15:48.679 --> 00:15:51.279 spend time with her friend at the club. When she 273 00:15:51.440 --> 00:15:54.919 realized I wouldn't take her back, she shifted her approach 274 00:15:55.039 --> 00:15:58.720 and worked on that guy until he proposed. Right before 275 00:15:58.759 --> 00:16:03.039 we signed the papers. She began apologizing again, but I 276 00:16:03.200 --> 00:16:06.559 interrupted her. Not a word, Kara, Nothing you say can 277

00:16:06.679 --> 00:16:09.399 make up for what happened. I hope you enjoy your 278 00:16:09.480 --> 00:16:12.720 new life, but remember how you got there. He was 279 00:16:12.799 --> 00:16:16.200 engaged and you were married. Just a tip, don't skip 280 00:16:16.200 --> 00:16:18.559 the prin up. If you go through with this marriage, 281 00:16:18.960 --> 00:16:21.799 remember how you got him, and be aware that this 282 00:16:21.960 --> 00:16:24.759 might not last long. I'd say you have a year 283 00:16:24.840 --> 00:16:29.080 at most. She seemed upset when I left. Eight months later, 284 00:16:29.279 --> 00:16:32.120 they had a big wedding. The reception was at the 285 00:16:32.159 --> 00:16:36.000 country club, and they received an unexpected surprise at the end. 286 00:16:36.279 --> 00:16:39.759 The country club canceled his membership and she had already 287 00:16:39.840 --> 00:16:42.960 been barred. It turned out the members didn't like young 288 00:16:43.039 --> 00:16:46.799 women using the club to find wealthy husbands, especially if 289 00:16:46.840 --> 00:16:50.399 they were already engaged. The woman he left behind had 290 00:16:50.399 --> 00:16:53.559 a father on the membership committee, and his dad couldn't 291 00:16:53.600 --> 00:16:56.759 do much about it. I heard. They joined another, less 292 00:16:56.799 --> 00:17:00.120 exclusive club, and just months later she found him in 293 00:17:00.159 --> 00:17:03.720 a difficult situation with one of the bridesmaids. She took 294 00:17:03.759 --> 00:17:07.799 my advice, didn't sign anything, and handled the divorce well. 295 00:17:08.079 --> 00:17:10.799 He had been in court for other issues before, and 296 00:17:10.880 --> 00:17:13.599 the judge remembered him. She may have made sure he 297 00:17:13.680 --> 00:17:17.119 faced more problems in court, which felt like some sort 298 00:17:17.160 --> 00:17:20.880 of cosmic payback. Two months later, she surprised me by 299 00:17:20.920 --> 00:17:23.839 showing up at my door. What do you want, Kara, 300 00:17:24.160 --> 00:17:28.000 I asked, Can we talk? She replied no. She seemed 301 00:17:28.160 --> 00:17:31.519 genuinely shocked that I wouldn't let her in. Don't you 302 00:17:31.599 --> 00:17:34.119 want to rub it in? Tell me I was right. 303 00:17:34.519 --> 00:17:37.519 I can handle it, she said, Do you think I 304 00:17:37.640 --> 00:17:41.640 care about your feelings? I wanted a faithful partner. How 305 00:17:41.680 --> 00:17:44.279 did that turn out for me? I don't know what 306 00:17:44.400 --> 00:17:47.079 you want, but if you're looking for my forgiveness or 307 00:17:47.119 --> 00:17:50.640 another chance, you've come to the wrong place. I'm seeing 308 00:17:50.720 --> 00:17:54.119 someone and it could get serious. The last thing I 309 00:17:54.279 --> 00:17:58.160 need is an ex complicating my life. So take your plans, 310 00:17:58.359 --> 00:18:02.440 find someone else, and enjoy yourself. Just don't come back. 311 00:18:02.799 --> 00:18:05.599 I wanted to slam the door, but I didn't. The 312 00:18:05.680 --> 00:18:08.759 look in her eyes when it closed was unforgettable to me. 313 00:18:09.160 --> 00:18:12.960 She honestly thought that saying sorry would make everything better. 314 00:18:13.279 --> 00:18:16.119 She stood there for a few minutes, probably hoping I 315 00:18:16.160 --> 00:18:19.359 would change my mind. I'm sure she heard me start 316 00:18:19.440 --> 00:18:22.039 my bike and leave through the back. When I got 317 00:18:22.119 --> 00:18:25.359 back an hour later, she was gone, leaving a thick 318 00:18:25.440 --> 00:18:28.079 note stuck in the door. I used it to light 319 00:18:28.160 --> 00:18:31.880 my charcoal grill that night, not even thinking about what 320 00:18:32.000 --> 00:18:34.960 she had written. The girl I was dating wasn't the 321 00:18:35.039 --> 00:18:37.960 right one for me. We were good friends and got 322 00:18:37.960 --> 00:18:41.359 along well, but neither of us was what the other wanted. 323 00:18:41.400 --> 00:18:45.039 In the end, we separated on good terms. I went 324 00:18:45.119 --> 00:18:48.440 on dates from time to time, but still hadn't found 325 00:18:48.480 --> 00:18:52.920 someone special. Kara got married again, but that relationship lasted 326 00:18:52.960 --> 00:18:56.759 only eighteen months. There were whispers about why it ended, 327 00:18:57.119 --> 00:19:00.680 but nobody really knew. Two years later, she married a 328 00:19:00.759 --> 00:19:04.200 man again, but two years After that, she was single 329 00:19:04.279 --> 00:19:07.519 once more. By that time I hadn't heard much about 330 00:19:07.519 --> 00:19:10.880 her and didn't care enough to find out. It seemed 331 00:19:10.920 --> 00:19:14.599 the divorces made her independent. She went back to school, 332 00:19:14.759 --> 00:19:18.319 became a CPA, and started working in real estate with 333 00:19:18.400 --> 00:19:22.359 high end properties. Thanks to connections she made during her marriages, 334 00:19:22.720 --> 00:19:26.200 her business took off, and she opened several offices. Between 335 00:19:26.200 --> 00:19:29.960 her second and third office, she married once again. My 336 00:19:30.119 --> 00:19:33.119 cousin told me about her during a visit home. I 337 00:19:33.200 --> 00:19:35.720 had been so focused on my new business that I 338 00:19:35.799 --> 00:19:38.559 gave up farming and let him manage my land to 339 00:19:38.680 --> 00:19:41.559 keep the farm going. This was the first time I 340 00:19:41.599 --> 00:19:45.079 had seen Kara in many years. I noticed she had 341 00:19:45.079 --> 00:19:48.799 a way of talking about my success. Maybe everything she 342 00:19:48.880 --> 00:19:52.359 went through had changed how she saw things, So what 343 00:19:52.559 --> 00:19:56.319 was making me successful? I farmed and sold my produce 344 00:19:56.400 --> 00:19:58.640 at a market on the edge of the nicer part 345 00:19:58.680 --> 00:20:02.599 of town. My

custom were mostly professionals who had money 346 00:20:02.640 --> 00:20:06.359 to spend, but were genuinely nice. They often asked how 347 00:20:06.440 --> 00:20:09.200 I grew the food and how fresh it was. I 348 00:20:09.279 --> 00:20:13.279 had a loyal group of customers who bought everything I brought. However, 349 00:20:13.519 --> 00:20:17.160 on this rainy Saturday, I only sold half of my produce. 350 00:20:17.480 --> 00:20:20.119 I figured the rest would go to a soup kitchen 351 00:20:20.200 --> 00:20:23.759 I supported, as I always donated some of my vegetables. 352 00:20:24.000 --> 00:20:27.359 Taking a shortcut home through a less wealthy area, I 353 00:20:27.480 --> 00:20:30.920 ended up with a flat tire. Frustrated, I pulled under 354 00:20:30.960 --> 00:20:34.160 the cover of an abandoned mini mart after moving my 355 00:20:34.279 --> 00:20:37.160 produce to get to my spare tire. I hurried to 356 00:20:37.279 --> 00:20:40.119 change the flat in that uneasy spot. Just as I 357 00:20:40.359 --> 00:20:43.359 was lowering the deck, I heard a small, shaky voice. 358 00:20:43.680 --> 00:20:46.599 Are those collard greens? I looked up to see you, 359 00:20:46.640 --> 00:20:51.839 an elderly woman, probably in her sixties, looking at my basket. Yes, ma'am, 360 00:20:52.160 --> 00:20:55.640 and some kale. Do you like coll arts? I love them, 361 00:20:55.880 --> 00:20:59.440 she said softly, but I haven't had any fresh ones 362 00:20:59.480 --> 00:21:03.240 in years. I almost forgot what they look like. Thinking 363 00:21:03.319 --> 00:21:06.640 about that moment, it's clear that our lives can change 364 00:21:06.720 --> 00:21:10.119 because of little things. That's simple. Meeting an act of 365 00:21:10.240 --> 00:21:12.839 kindness on that day brought me to where I am. Now. 366 00:21:13.079 --> 00:21:15.839 Would you like some? You can take them since the 367 00:21:15.880 --> 00:21:19.000 market is over. I have extras and it would make 368 00:21:19.079 --> 00:21:21.759 me happy if someone who needed them could enjoy them. 369 00:21:22.000 --> 00:21:25.000 I was surprised when tears filled her eyes and she 370 00:21:25.119 --> 00:21:28.039 looked like she might faint. I helped her into the 371 00:21:28.079 --> 00:21:31.160 front seat of my truck. Are you okay? Do you 372 00:21:31.279 --> 00:21:34.960 need me to call someone? I'll be fine in a minute. Dear, 373 00:21:35.279 --> 00:21:38.759 It's just that you don't see much kindness here, especially 374 00:21:38.839 --> 00:21:42.559 from strangers. Are you a good Samaritan? She managed a 375 00:21:42.640 --> 00:21:47.319 small smile. I smiled back, no, ma'am. I'm a Baptist, 376 00:21:47.480 --> 00:21:51.759 but I remember something about sharing. The offer stands you 377 00:21:51.880 --> 00:21:54.599 can take as much as you want. What else do 378 00:21:54.759 --> 00:21:58.720 you have? I showed her my basket of carrots, spring onions, 379 00:21:58.799 --> 00:22:02.799 heads of butter, crunch

lettuce, loose lettuce, and another basket 380 00:22:02.839 --> 00:22:05.640 of mixed greens. She looked at them for a moment, 381 00:22:05.920 --> 00:22:09.400 then asked for my phone. After making three calls. Ten 382 00:22:09.480 --> 00:22:13.160 minutes later, I was surrounded by older women from the neighborhood, 383 00:22:13.240 --> 00:22:17.440 chatting excitedly. Twenty minutes later, everything I had was gone, 384 00:22:17.480 --> 00:22:20.599 and the women were holding bags like they were precious items. 385 00:22:20.960 --> 00:22:23.680 They all thanked me, and I asked why they didn't 386 00:22:23.799 --> 00:22:27.319 just buy produce from the grocery stores. The first woman 387 00:22:27.440 --> 00:22:30.720 I met explained, we don't have a grocery store. The 388 00:22:30.839 --> 00:22:34.519 last one closed down ten years ago after being robbed 389 00:22:34.559 --> 00:22:37.519 too many times. We have to take a bus twenty 390 00:22:37.559 --> 00:22:40.720 blocks to the nearest store, and they don't treat us well. 391 00:22:41.000 --> 00:22:44.359 They follow us around like we're going to steal something. 392 00:22:44.640 --> 00:22:47.759 Plus it's hard to carry a lot of groceries on 393 00:22:47.799 --> 00:22:51.000 the bus. You being here is like a blessing. It 394 00:22:51.079 --> 00:22:54.000 made me think about how special this market could be. 395 00:22:54.400 --> 00:22:56.720 I asked her if she thought I could sell here 396 00:22:56.799 --> 00:23:00.599 if I came back the next Saturday. Instead of being happy, 397 00:23:00.799 --> 00:23:03.799 she frowned. You could bring three times what you had 398 00:23:03.799 --> 00:23:06.559 to day and still go home with nothing. But this 399 00:23:06.839 --> 00:23:09.839 is a tough neighborhood and you would stand out. It 400 00:23:09.839 --> 00:23:13.200 wouldn't take long for others to notice you. I wouldn't 401 00:23:13.240 --> 00:23:15.680 come back if I were you. I gave her a 402 00:23:15.839 --> 00:23:18.319 ride the three blocks to her home, offered to help 403 00:23:18.400 --> 00:23:21.559 carry her groceries, but she thanked me and called some 404 00:23:21.680 --> 00:23:25.359 boys near by to help. I appreciated her support. I'll 405 00:23:25.400 --> 00:23:29.880 be back next Saturday at eight, same spot. Please tell others. 406 00:23:30.160 --> 00:23:33.640 She looked at me and smiled at last, God bless you. 407 00:23:34.000 --> 00:23:37.200 I hope you understand what you're getting into. She took 408 00:23:37.279 --> 00:23:40.559 my number and I went home feeling good. She called 409 00:23:40.599 --> 00:23:43.839 me that Wednesday. Do you accept e BT cards or 410 00:23:43.839 --> 00:23:47.039 the new version of food stamps. I didn't, but there 411 00:23:47.119 --> 00:23:49.359 was an app I could get, along with a scanner 412 00:23:49.440 --> 00:23:52.920 for my smartphone. I will buy Saturday. It would be 413 00:23:52.920 --> 00:23:55.920 better if you came on Friday. We all get

our 414 00:23:56.000 --> 00:23:59.279 cards then and it goes pretty fast. I have many 415 00:23:59.319 --> 00:24:03.160 neighbors interested in what you're offering. Friday worked well for 416 00:24:03.279 --> 00:24:06.440 me because I could still attend my regular market and 417 00:24:06.559 --> 00:24:10.279 keep all my customers happy. I worked for ten hour days, 418 00:24:10.319 --> 00:24:13.559 so it fit perfectly into my schedule. I told her 419 00:24:13.599 --> 00:24:16.559 I could only meet in the afternoons and would arrive 420 00:24:16.640 --> 00:24:19.440 at two. I was a little surprised to see a 421 00:24:19.480 --> 00:24:23.039 small crowd gathered that afternoon. I was glad. I had 422 00:24:23.119 --> 00:24:26.279 asked a few friends for any extra items to bring, 423 00:24:26.720 --> 00:24:29.720 just in case. I think I might have overwhelmed my 424 00:24:29.880 --> 00:24:32.640 phone with orders, and I was sold out by four. 425 00:24:32.880 --> 00:24:35.920 As I was packing up to leave, a police car 426 00:24:36.000 --> 00:24:39.880 came by and two officers stepped out, one tall Hispanic 427 00:24:39.960 --> 00:24:44.039 man and one shorter black man. Grandma Greeley was still there, 428 00:24:44.079 --> 00:24:47.279 waiting for her ride home, and she greeted them by name. 429 00:24:47.559 --> 00:24:51.559 Officer Jose, Officer Dan. How are you to day? We're fine, 430 00:24:51.880 --> 00:24:55.119 answered the black officer. What do you have here? She 431 00:24:55.319 --> 00:24:59.680 waved me over and introduced us officers. This is Steve Moore. 432 00:25:00.079 --> 00:25:03.240 He's a farmer with great products. God sent him my 433 00:25:03.359 --> 00:25:06.799 way and I'm not letting go. He has fresh produce, 434 00:25:07.000 --> 00:25:09.880 better and cheaper than the store, and I don't have 435 00:25:10.000 --> 00:25:13.000 to drive across town to get it. Treat him well. 436 00:25:13.279 --> 00:25:17.079 We shook hands and chatted for a moment. They seemed friendly. 437 00:25:17.480 --> 00:25:21.000 Grandma was talking to some late arrivals, letting them know 438 00:25:21.160 --> 00:25:24.559 I was out but would return next week. The officers 439 00:25:24.599 --> 00:25:27.680 pulled me aside for a moment. Don't take this the 440 00:25:27.759 --> 00:25:30.759 wrong way. It's nice to see you here, and it's 441 00:25:30.799 --> 00:25:34.319 great to see these folks happy. If you keep coming back, 442 00:25:34.559 --> 00:25:36.839 it will mean a lot to them. But this is 443 00:25:36.880 --> 00:25:40.319 a tough neighborhood. There are issues with crime and you 444 00:25:40.359 --> 00:25:43.400 could be a target as a white man dealing in cash. 445 00:25:43.599 --> 00:25:47.039 We'll keep an eye on you, but stay alert. Remember 446 00:25:47.240 --> 00:25:50.640 if things get tough, it's just money. Hand it over 447 00:25:50.759 --> 00:25:54.079 and stay safe. I thanked them for their concern and 448 00:25:54.200 --> 00:25:57.440 showed them my permit for carrying. I mentioned that I 449 00:25:57.519 --> 00:26:01.359 had a small pistol and another item near when I worked. 450 00:26:01.400 --> 00:26:04.160 They frowned a bit and reminded me again that it 451 00:26:04.279 --> 00:26:07.720 was just money. Officer Jose told me as he got 452 00:26:07.839 --> 00:26:10.640 into their car that I also needed a special business 453 00:26:10.680 --> 00:26:14.960 license since my farmer's market permit didn't cover this area. 454 00:26:15.119 --> 00:26:19.160 Don't worry, it's only dollar fifteen. I'll let my friend 455 00:26:19.240 --> 00:26:22.200 and permits know your coming, so it should be simple. 456 00:26:22.839 --> 00:26:25.759 My mother bought from you today, That's how we found 457 00:26:25.799 --> 00:26:28.680 out you were here. I'll see how good your products 458 00:26:28.759 --> 00:26:32.240 are on Sunday. Just be careful. I noticed some young 459 00:26:32.319 --> 00:26:36.240 men watching me, but they hadn't approached, so I decided 460 00:26:36.240 --> 00:26:39.200 to let it go. The next day, I informed my 461 00:26:39.279 --> 00:26:43.160 customers about my new location. Miss Chen, a small woman 462 00:26:43.240 --> 00:26:46.599 who is also a lawyer, handed me her card. If 463 00:26:46.599 --> 00:26:49.839 you keep going there, you'll probably need my help sooner 464 00:26:49.960 --> 00:26:52.960 or later. Give me my produce this week for free, 465 00:26:53.079 --> 00:26:55.759 and we'll see it as a down payment. It quickly 466 00:26:55.839 --> 00:26:59.000 became obvious that the demand for produce was much higher 467 00:26:59.000 --> 00:27:02.279 than what I could provide. I had recruited every farmer 468 00:27:02.400 --> 00:27:05.319 I knew, and many who were friends of theirs, even 469 00:27:05.400 --> 00:27:08.559 if I didn't know them personally. I ended up towing 470 00:27:08.599 --> 00:27:12.000 a small trailer behind my truck, yet I still sold 471 00:27:12.039 --> 00:27:15.119 out each time. I brought a long five or six 472 00:27:15.160 --> 00:27:18.960 folding chairs for Grandma Greeley and her friends, along with 473 00:27:19.079 --> 00:27:22.119 a canopy for shade. She became the main host and 474 00:27:22.279 --> 00:27:25.400 chatted with every one while I worked. When things got 475 00:27:25.440 --> 00:27:29.599 hectic for me, she sent me her fifteen year old granddaughter, Alice. 476 00:27:29.880 --> 00:27:32.480 I showed her the price list and how to use 477 00:27:32.519 --> 00:27:36.200 the scales. Alice wouldn't take any money from the customers, 478 00:27:36.240 --> 00:27:39.559 though she was surprised when I paid her minimum wage 479 00:27:39.559 --> 00:27:42.440 for three hours from when she got home from school 480 00:27:42.680 --> 00:27:45.640 until I was done packing up. I gave her the 481 00:27:45.720 --> 00:27:48.799 payment in cash, and she nearly cried. It was the 482 00:27:48.839 --> 00:27:51.880 first money she had ever earned. I told

her I 483 00:27:51.880 --> 00:27:54.119 would pay her more if she learned to use my 484 00:27:54.240 --> 00:27:57.359 app for E b T purchases and handled the money 485 00:27:57.400 --> 00:28:00.359 when I was busy. She seemed shocked that I would 486 00:28:00.359 --> 00:28:03.480 trust her with money. Why you going to steal from me? 487 00:28:03.880 --> 00:28:06.559 Alice was a very pretty young woman with a nice 488 00:28:06.599 --> 00:28:10.359 mix of backgrounds. She blushed and promised she would never 489 00:28:10.480 --> 00:28:14.119 do that. I didn't think, so, I'll share a business 490 00:28:14.160 --> 00:28:18.000 secret with you. People prefer to buy from friendly faces. 491 00:28:18.400 --> 00:28:20.680 Now get in the truck and help me take your 492 00:28:20.720 --> 00:28:24.720 grandmother home. I expect you by three next Friday. While 493 00:28:24.720 --> 00:28:27.680 I was there, two officers made sure to drive through 494 00:28:27.799 --> 00:28:30.920 at least twice, and words started to spread. This didn't 495 00:28:30.960 --> 00:28:34.519 stop one person from trying his luck. I was packing 496 00:28:34.599 --> 00:28:37.319 for the day while Grandma Greeley and two of her 497 00:28:37.359 --> 00:28:40.799 friends were chatting, and Alice helped me calculate the totals. 498 00:28:41.119 --> 00:28:44.200 By that point, I was paying her dollar ten an hour, 499 00:28:44.440 --> 00:28:47.480 dollar thirty a day, and I thought about having her 500 00:28:47.519 --> 00:28:50.799 come with Mia on Saturdays for an extra fifty a week. 501 00:28:51.160 --> 00:28:53.720 She was thrilled when I mentioned we could give it 502 00:28:53.759 --> 00:28:57.279 a try next week. The individual was young and thin, 503 00:28:57.519 --> 00:29:00.920 looking nervous. He had a small weapon, and I wanted 504 00:29:00.960 --> 00:29:04.599 to stay alert. He was swaying a bit, demanding the money. 505 00:29:04.759 --> 00:29:07.279 As I reached for the money box, I knew I 506 00:29:07.359 --> 00:29:11.000 had to protect myself and everyone around. Just as things 507 00:29:11.039 --> 00:29:15.240 began to escalate, two people stepped in quickly, firmly stopping him. 508 00:29:15.480 --> 00:29:19.079 After a brief struggle, they stepped back, and instead of smiling, 509 00:29:19.279 --> 00:29:23.440 they exchanged serious looks. Grand Ma Greeley broke the tension. 510 00:29:23.720 --> 00:29:28.519 Miguel Michael, you boys need to behave This is Steve Moore. 511 00:29:28.799 --> 00:29:32.200 The young man is my grandson. Michael, and the other 512 00:29:32.279 --> 00:29:35.960 one is Miguel. They used to be friends until politics 513 00:29:35.960 --> 00:29:39.359 got in the way. And Miguel is the grandson of Tina, 514 00:29:39.640 --> 00:29:43.519 my best friend. Tina was sitting next to Grandma Greeley 515 00:29:43.759 --> 00:29:47.400 giving Miguel a serious talk in Spanish to make things 516 00:29:47.440 --> 00:29:51.839 more interesting. The officers arrived and watched us talking and 517 00:29:51.920 --> 00:29:55.279 the person on the ground. What happened to him? Miguel 518 00:29:55.319 --> 00:29:59.039 looked at him without much interest. I think he just fell, 519 00:29:59.240 --> 00:30:03.319 Michael added, yeh, that's right. His eyes rolled back and 520 00:30:03.440 --> 00:30:07.519 he fell down. He must have landed badly. Officer Josey 521 00:30:07.640 --> 00:30:11.000 reached down and picked up a small object. Well, it 522 00:30:11.079 --> 00:30:14.319 looks like we'll take him in for having something he shouldn't. 523 00:30:14.599 --> 00:30:18.119 You three come with me. Michael, Miguel and I walked 524 00:30:18.119 --> 00:30:21.200 with him to the side of the building. Steve, let 525 00:30:21.200 --> 00:30:24.680 me introduce you. Miguel is the leader of a social 526 00:30:24.759 --> 00:30:28.559 club called the Tenth Street Kings. Michael leads the Brothers 527 00:30:28.559 --> 00:30:32.200 of shadow Wood, who are involved in local projects. They 528 00:30:32.240 --> 00:30:36.680 sometimes disagree over their interests and areas. They may face 529 00:30:36.799 --> 00:30:40.400 issues one day, but for now they are making good choices. 530 00:30:40.759 --> 00:30:44.279 He turned to them, Listen, boys, you need to leave 531 00:30:44.319 --> 00:30:47.400 this man alone. He helps the community and it's not 532 00:30:47.640 --> 00:30:50.759 worth your time to bother him. Also, he has your 533 00:30:50.799 --> 00:30:54.359 sister working for him, Michael, do you really want her 534 00:30:54.440 --> 00:30:57.559 in any trouble. If anything happens to this man, it 535 00:30:57.599 --> 00:31:00.599 would be bad for the community and for us as officers. 536 00:31:00.960 --> 00:31:04.319 Do we understand each other. I want you to promise 537 00:31:04.400 --> 00:31:07.440 that you'll leave him alone. You may want to watch him, 538 00:31:07.640 --> 00:31:11.079 just to make sure nothing like today happens again. Now 539 00:31:11.160 --> 00:31:14.759 shake hands and let's go back outside. They looked at 540 00:31:14.799 --> 00:31:18.279 each other while I reached out my hand. Deal. They 541 00:31:18.319 --> 00:31:22.759 shook my hand and surprisingly each others too. Miguel smiled. 542 00:31:23.119 --> 00:31:26.480 One thing. I know you help his grandma. I want 543 00:31:26.519 --> 00:31:30.640 the same for mine. Deal. I shook his hand again. Deal. 544 00:31:30.960 --> 00:31:34.119 We walked back around the building to relieved faces, who 545 00:31:34.240 --> 00:31:38.000 relaxed when they saw smiling Mighel and Michael talked for 546 00:31:38.079 --> 00:31:41.240 a bit, and from that day on, whenever I was there, 547 00:31:41.519 --> 00:31:44.640 a few guys seemed to hang out. I always made 548 00:31:44.680 --> 00:31:47.519 sure they had food to take home to their families. 549 00:31:47.839 --> 00:31:50.720 The officers later told me. It was the first time 550 00:31:50.759 --> 00:31:53.519 the two had

talked face to face in two years, 551 00:31:53.839 --> 00:31:56.440 and problems in the area dropped a lot after the 552 00:31:56.519 --> 00:31:59.960 agreement was made. Things went well for nearly a year. 553 00:32:00.200 --> 00:32:04.039 When the local season finished, I visited the regional farmers 554 00:32:04.079 --> 00:32:07.960 market looking for the best fruits and vegetables at good prices. 555 00:32:08.319 --> 00:32:11.400 It got chilly, so I bought heaters and blankets for 556 00:32:11.519 --> 00:32:15.880 Grandma Greeley, Grandma Vasquez, and their friends. The new season 557 00:32:16.079 --> 00:32:18.759 was just starting when a man in a suit came 558 00:32:18.799 --> 00:32:21.880 by and sat watching for about an hour. When the 559 00:32:21.920 --> 00:32:26.119 market ended, he came over and introduced himself. He was 560 00:32:26.160 --> 00:32:29.400 from the management group that owned the building. They had 561 00:32:29.440 --> 00:32:32.079 been trying to sell it for years, but no one 562 00:32:32.240 --> 00:32:35.240 was interested because of where it was located. He was 563 00:32:35.279 --> 00:32:38.759 there to give me choices either stop using the property 564 00:32:38.880 --> 00:32:41.839 and find another place, or rent the building for a 565 00:32:41.880 --> 00:32:46.000 low price. He explained different programs for those wanting to 566 00:32:46.119 --> 00:32:50.279 work in challenging areas. Cities across the country were starting 567 00:32:50.319 --> 00:32:53.319 to understand the issue of food deserts and how they 568 00:32:53.359 --> 00:32:57.559 affected communities. After he left, I talked with the Grandma's 569 00:32:57.599 --> 00:33:00.720 and Alice, and they were really excited. They made some 570 00:33:00.839 --> 00:33:05.119 calls and Sue, Miguel, Michael Hosey, and Dan arrived. Alice 571 00:33:05.160 --> 00:33:07.759 took the grandma's home while the rest of us had 572 00:33:07.799 --> 00:33:11.160 a discussion. Everyone agreed it could be a good change, 573 00:33:11.200 --> 00:33:14.680 and the boys promised to leave the store alone. Hosey 574 00:33:14.759 --> 00:33:18.079 and Dan assured us they would increase police presents until 575 00:33:18.119 --> 00:33:21.400 the store was stable. I spoke to Miss Chen, who 576 00:33:21.440 --> 00:33:25.240 researched for me and found several government programs available from 577 00:33:25.279 --> 00:33:28.559 the federal level down to local ones. The place needed 578 00:33:28.599 --> 00:33:32.279 some work, new coolers, shells, lights, and paint, but I 579 00:33:32.440 --> 00:33:35.160 was able to lease it through a government program which 580 00:33:35.200 --> 00:33:38.119 had me paying dollar two hundred a month for two years. 581 00:33:38.480 --> 00:33:40.880 At the end of that time, I could either pay 582 00:33:40.920 --> 00:33:43.359 the full rent or buy the space, but I had 583 00:33:43.400 --> 00:33:45.880 to keep it open for at least two more years. 584 00:33:46.200 --> 00:33:49.480 Miss Chen was a great help, guiding me every step 585 00:33:49.519 --> 00:33:52.039 of the way. By then, she had started her own 586 00:33:52.119 --> 00:33:55.079 firm and we were one of her biggest clients. I 587 00:33:55.160 --> 00:33:58.559 took a big step, left my job, expanded my land, 588 00:33:58.720 --> 00:34:02.359 and became a full small business owner. Five months later, 589 00:34:02.680 --> 00:34:06.039 we opened Grand mus Faith Grocery Store. There was a 590 00:34:06.079 --> 00:34:10.079 lot of excitement, with local politicians celebrating the return of 591 00:34:10.119 --> 00:34:14.199 affordable food to the neighborhood. The community members smiled and 592 00:34:14.280 --> 00:34:18.199 gave thanks to grand Ma Greeley and grandm Vascus They 593 00:34:18.239 --> 00:34:21.840 were overjoyed when we unveiled the store logo, which featured 594 00:34:21.840 --> 00:34:25.840 both grand mus smiling at everyone entering. Miss Chen worked 595 00:34:25.880 --> 00:34:29.639 out a deal with an independent grocer's association, giving us 596 00:34:29.719 --> 00:34:33.440 access to their pricing instead of what suppliers usually charged 597 00:34:33.440 --> 00:34:36.159 for setting up a store. They supported us with the 598 00:34:36.199 --> 00:34:38.559 hope that if we did well, it would bring in 599 00:34:38.679 --> 00:34:41.480 more business, and if we didn't, they could say they 600 00:34:41.559 --> 00:34:45.280 tried to help. They seemed surprised by how much we sold, 601 00:34:45.519 --> 00:34:49.119 competing with some of their smaller full service stores. We 602 00:34:49.320 --> 00:34:52.760 opened at eight every morning and closed at seven every night, 603 00:34:53.079 --> 00:34:56.599 taking Sundays off. Even though we had a good relationship 604 00:34:56.679 --> 00:34:59.559 with most people who could be a concern, I wanted 605 00:34:59.599 --> 00:35:02.679 to keep my team safe. This is one reason I 606 00:35:02.840 --> 00:35:07.440 chose not to sell alcohol. It reduced temptation and gave 607 00:35:07.519 --> 00:35:10.719 us more cooler space for food and milk. I had 608 00:35:10.760 --> 00:35:14.119 a committed team. Alice worked from three to eight three 609 00:35:14.199 --> 00:35:18.400 days a week, and eight hours on Saturdays. Miguel's youngest sister, 610 00:35:18.719 --> 00:35:21.920 who was seventeen, worked the same hours as Alice on 611 00:35:22.000 --> 00:35:25.360 different days and conswale a. Spanish skills were very helpful. 612 00:35:25.639 --> 00:35:29.199 I even took Spanish classes and could speak it, though 613 00:35:29.239 --> 00:35:33.239 not perfectly. Many customers came in just to hear me try, 614 00:35:33.440 --> 00:35:37.000 often offering gentle advice. Along with the young women working 615 00:35:37.119 --> 00:35:40.599 at the cash registers, I had for middle aged women 616 00:35:40.719 --> 00:35:44.400 helping out. I needed to keep both registers running all 617 00:35:44.480

--> 00:35:48.039 the time. I also had two full time stokers because 618 00:35:48.079 --> 00:35:51.719 our store was small and items sold fast. Both were 619 00:35:51.760 --> 00:35:54.559 mature men who were thankful for steady work, and I 620 00:35:54.639 --> 00:35:57.880 paid them well. The young women made dollar ten an hour, 621 00:35:58.199 --> 00:36:01.079 while the men and older women are earned fourteen. Once 622 00:36:01.119 --> 00:36:03.920 they reached their top pay during the summer, I paid 623 00:36:04.000 --> 00:36:06.679 the young women the same as they worked full time. 624 00:36:06.960 --> 00:36:10.039 I wanted to be successful, but I also cared about 625 00:36:10.079 --> 00:36:13.800 the livelihoods of my employees. Even after all these years, 626 00:36:14.039 --> 00:36:16.800 I had one of the lowest turnover rates in any 627 00:36:16.880 --> 00:36:20.760 grocery store. Everone who worked at the registers was trained 628 00:36:20.800 --> 00:36:24.440 to handle emergencies. They knew to open the cash register, 629 00:36:24.719 --> 00:36:28.159 raise their hands, and step back. They also activated a 630 00:36:28.199 --> 00:36:31.599 panic button on the floor while moving away. The police 631 00:36:31.719 --> 00:36:35.920 usually arrived quickly. During the first year, we only faced 632 00:36:35.960 --> 00:36:39.679 three incidents, which was remarkable. The fact that I kept 633 00:36:39.719 --> 00:36:42.960 two coffee pots going in the office and never charged 634 00:36:43.000 --> 00:36:46.679 the police for snacks likely helped. Plus, the people caught 635 00:36:46.719 --> 00:36:50.760 in any wrongdoing faced consequences from the local community, which 636 00:36:50.800 --> 00:36:54.039 became widely known. After the first year, I had to 637 00:36:54.079 --> 00:36:56.920 give up the farm. I simply didn't have the time 638 00:36:57.039 --> 00:36:59.719 and a more. It made me sad, but I knew 639 00:36:59.760 --> 00:37:02.800 I could do more good through my store. The store 640 00:37:03.000 --> 00:37:06.280 was doing well, there was little competition, and I had 641 00:37:06.320 --> 00:37:09.920 a strong reputation in the community. The Grand Moss as 642 00:37:09.960 --> 00:37:13.159 they became known, came in three or four days a week, 643 00:37:13.440 --> 00:37:16.639 enjoying each other's company. If you needed something to be 644 00:37:16.719 --> 00:37:19.760 spread around, sharing it with them and everyone would hear 645 00:37:19.800 --> 00:37:23.199 about it before the day was over. One Friday, Dan 646 00:37:23.360 --> 00:37:26.000 and Jose brought a man who wanted to talk to me. 647 00:37:26.440 --> 00:37:29.079 He came to invite me to a private meeting with 648 00:37:29.159 --> 00:37:32.800 the city commissioners. They had a proposal for me. It 649 00:37:32.920 --> 00:37:36.239 seemed the city had acquired another grocery store in the 650 00:37:36.280 --> 00:37:39.559 Strip Mall through a legal matter. They wanted me to 651 00:37:39.599 --> 00:37:42.239 expand and offered to sell me the store for half 652 00:37:42.280 --> 00:37:45.440 its tax value as long as I promised to keep 653 00:37:45.519 --> 00:37:49.280 it open for five years. I asked Miss Chen for advice, 654 00:37:49.480 --> 00:37:51.760 and she told me I would be foolish not to 655 00:37:51.800 --> 00:37:55.440 consider the opportunity. What should I do with the old store? 656 00:37:55.760 --> 00:37:59.159 I asked, do what you think is best. Think of 657 00:37:59.239 --> 00:38:02.159 something that could help the community, and you will likely 658 00:38:02.239 --> 00:38:05.920 find support. It is only three blocks away, so most 659 00:38:05.920 --> 00:38:09.039 of your customers can easily follow you. You will need 660 00:38:09.079 --> 00:38:12.320 to hire a full time manager, someone you can contract 661 00:38:12.320 --> 00:38:14.079 for a year or so to teach you how to 662 00:38:14.159 --> 00:38:16.599 run the business properly, and you will have to at 663 00:38:16.679 --> 00:38:19.440 least triple your work. First, I held a meeting at 664 00:38:19.480 --> 00:38:22.599 the store to inform the team about our upcoming move. 665 00:38:22.920 --> 00:38:26.360 It was nearby and everyone would keep their jobs. Most 666 00:38:26.440 --> 00:38:29.360 were supportive, but a few wanted to know what I 667 00:38:29.440 --> 00:38:32.840 plan to do with the old location. I don't know yet, 668 00:38:33.079 --> 00:38:35.679 but I want to keep it open. I am ready 669 00:38:35.719 --> 00:38:39.519 to hear any ideas. The move took five months. We 670 00:38:39.599 --> 00:38:42.760 had to do some repairs and hire new staff. I 671 00:38:42.920 --> 00:38:47.599 received nine hundred applications for thirty jobs. Alice graduated and 672 00:38:47.639 --> 00:38:51.039 I made her the produce manager. She worked thirty hours 673 00:38:51.079 --> 00:38:54.360 a week while being paid for forty eight. This allowed 674 00:38:54.400 --> 00:38:57.119 her to go to school for her associate degree in 675 00:38:57.239 --> 00:39:01.159 management with two semesters left to complete. Connie, as she 676 00:39:01.400 --> 00:39:04.239 liked to be called, became the grocery manager under the 677 00:39:04.239 --> 00:39:07.360 same plan as Alice. One of her tasks was to 678 00:39:07.400 --> 00:39:11.039 make sure our advertisements were in both English and Spanish. 679 00:39:11.280 --> 00:39:13.960 I hired a man in his sixties with a strong 680 00:39:14.079 --> 00:39:18.079 background after his last job ended. I offered him a 681 00:39:18.159 --> 00:39:21.559 contract with a good salary. I was so impressed by 682 00:39:21.599 --> 00:39:24.239 his work that at the end of the contract I 683 00:39:24.400 --> 00:39:28.280 offered him a permanent position, which he happily accepted. His 684 00:39:28.440 --> 00:39:32.239 experience was a great fit for our business and our community. 685 00:39:32.480 --> 00:39:35.920 I chose him based on his skills and

experience. The 686 00:39:36.039 --> 00:39:39.679 old store got another upgrade to support our new business. 687 00:39:39.960 --> 00:39:42.840 I once told grand Ma Greeley how I missed my 688 00:39:42.960 --> 00:39:47.320 grandmother's fried apple pies. Two days later, she showed up 689 00:39:47.360 --> 00:39:49.920 with a whole basket of them for the team. I 690 00:39:50.039 --> 00:39:53.719 have to admit I saved a few for myself, even 691 00:39:53.760 --> 00:39:56.400 though I ended up with a stomach ache and her laughter. 692 00:39:56.880 --> 00:40:01.159 Grandma Vasquez brought a delicious tray Lush's case. Before long, 693 00:40:01.400 --> 00:40:05.360 other grand must joined in, bringing everything from coconut pies 694 00:40:05.400 --> 00:40:08.840 to lemon pound cakes and raspberry bars. I set up 695 00:40:08.880 --> 00:40:11.719 a coup and arranged for experts to help them learn 696 00:40:11.760 --> 00:40:15.079 about the benefits they could gain from running a pastry cafe. 697 00:40:15.360 --> 00:40:18.639 We opened a cafe with twenty tables inside and ten 698 00:40:18.800 --> 00:40:22.639 outside for nice weather. The grand Must shared their recipes 699 00:40:22.679 --> 00:40:25.760 with their grand children, who joined in the fun. Things 700 00:40:25.840 --> 00:40:30.800 ran smoothly, with community officers always nearby. They, along with firemen, 701 00:40:31.000 --> 00:40:35.320 EMTs and other public service workers, received their first treat free, 702 00:40:35.559 --> 00:40:38.639 which came out of my pocket. After a year, we 703 00:40:38.719 --> 00:40:41.880 built a commercial kitchen beside my grocery store, and I 704 00:40:42.039 --> 00:40:45.599 was its only client. As I expanded, the grand must 705 00:40:45.599 --> 00:40:48.719 also grew their businesses until they could open their own 706 00:40:48.760 --> 00:40:52.119 bakeries across the country. I owned most of the business, 707 00:40:52.280 --> 00:40:55.320 but the original ladies shared in the success and no 708 00:40:55.360 --> 00:40:59.639 longer needed assistance programs or Social Security. I was happy 709 00:40:59.639 --> 00:41:02.280 to see that even though they could have moved anywhere 710 00:41:02.280 --> 00:41:05.440 in the city, they chose to stay. They still bought 711 00:41:05.480 --> 00:41:09.239 lovely homes in the area and made improvements. One day, 712 00:41:09.440 --> 00:41:12.119 a man in a sharp suit came in and asked 713 00:41:12.159 --> 00:41:14.800 if I could spare a few minutes. I thought he 714 00:41:14.880 --> 00:41:17.920 might be trying to sell something, but I had time, 715 00:41:18.239 --> 00:41:21.559 so we went into my office. He surprised me by 716 00:41:21.599 --> 00:41:26.360 showing a folder with details about my businesses, including my stores, bakeries, 717 00:41:26.440 --> 00:41:29.800 and pastry shop, and how much they were worth. You 718 00:41:29.920 --> 00:41:32.239 have a lot invested in this part of the city, 719 00:41:32.480

--> 00:41:36.440 mister More. It would be unfortunate if something bad were 720 00:41:36.480 --> 00:41:39.840 to happen, like fires or damage. I'm offering you an 721 00:41:39.880 --> 00:41:43.280 insurance plan that would help with those risks, and the 722 00:41:43.320 --> 00:41:47.639 cost is only fifteen percent of everything. A good deal. Really, 723 00:41:48.079 --> 00:41:51.559 My employers need your answer within the next week. Think 724 00:41:51.679 --> 00:41:55.079 carefully before you decide. Are you trying to pressure me, 725 00:41:55.519 --> 00:41:59.599 the man smiled slightly. Not at all. We provide protection 726 00:41:59.800 --> 00:42:03.880 in enduring nothing unfortunate happens to you at fifteen percent 727 00:42:03.960 --> 00:42:07.000 of my value. Yes, the price is a bit higher 728 00:42:07.000 --> 00:42:10.760 than usual, but we promise our service. I understand I 729 00:42:10.840 --> 00:42:14.719 have partners, so I will need to discuss this with them. Yes, 730 00:42:14.920 --> 00:42:18.519 a lovely group of women, all rather experienced in life. 731 00:42:18.800 --> 00:42:22.880 Our services include health coverage. It would be unfortunate if 732 00:42:22.920 --> 00:42:25.760 something were to happen to one of them at their age. 733 00:42:26.119 --> 00:42:29.800 He seemed surprised by my reaction. You shouldn't have said that. 734 00:42:30.280 --> 00:42:33.119 I can give you my answer right now. No way, 735 00:42:33.519 --> 00:42:37.559 take your offer and leave. He just shrugged. I encourage 736 00:42:37.599 --> 00:42:40.440 you to think it over one week. I called Hose 737 00:42:40.679 --> 00:42:45.039 and Dan. I always recorded my office talks for different reasons, 738 00:42:45.119 --> 00:42:48.079 and I was glad I did. They checked his photo 739 00:42:48.199 --> 00:42:51.320 and found out he was linked to a local crime group. 740 00:42:51.679 --> 00:42:55.000 This is serious, my friend. He probably knew he was 741 00:42:55.079 --> 00:42:58.519 being recorded since he didn't make any direct threats. We 742 00:42:58.599 --> 00:43:02.480 should inform the task force about this. We've heard rumors 743 00:43:02.519 --> 00:43:05.880 about them wanting to expand their area. We should let 744 00:43:05.880 --> 00:43:09.239 Miguel and Michael know that something is coming. They will 745 00:43:09.360 --> 00:43:12.599 likely try to take over. I contacted both of them 746 00:43:12.679 --> 00:43:16.480 through their grandmothers, saying I had important news that affected 747 00:43:16.519 --> 00:43:18.960 all of us and we needed to meet as soon 748 00:43:19.039 --> 00:43:22.320 as possible. We got together at the pastry shop the 749 00:43:22.360 --> 00:43:26.920 next night after it closed. After enjoying our coffees and snacks, 750 00:43:27.000 --> 00:43:30.360 I explained what was going on. Listen, guys, I know 751 00:43:30.480 --> 00:43:33.159 how you earn your money. I don't really like it, 752 00:43:33.360 --> 00:43:36.000 but if

it's not you, it will be someone else. 753 00:43:36.400 --> 00:43:39.000 You've always been honest with me, so I feel I 754 00:43:39.039 --> 00:43:41.440 should tell you what I know. You might want to 755 00:43:41.480 --> 00:43:44.559 think about how many older gang leaders you see around 756 00:43:44.639 --> 00:43:47.599 your careers don't last forever, and it might be time 757 00:43:47.719 --> 00:43:50.760 to think about stepping back. I just don't want to 758 00:43:50.800 --> 00:43:54.440 sit with your grandmothers while you face serious trouble. Now 759 00:43:54.519 --> 00:43:57.639 that that's over, what will you do? The authorities know, 760 00:43:57.960 --> 00:44:00.519 and they've said you all need to get your sitchuations 761 00:44:00.559 --> 00:44:02.960 in order and keep a low profile if you can. 762 00:44:03.280 --> 00:44:07.000 I'm not giving into those threats. One thing is clear. 763 00:44:07.199 --> 00:44:10.000 If I have to pay for protection, I want to 764 00:44:10.079 --> 00:44:13.079 work with family. I need a few people from each 765 00:44:13.119 --> 00:44:16.039 of you to look after our businesses and your families. 766 00:44:16.400 --> 00:44:20.440 Family comes first. If you notice any problems with my stores, 767 00:44:20.519 --> 00:44:23.800 or hear any news about your grandmothers, take care of 768 00:44:23.880 --> 00:44:27.519 them first, understood. I left the room and they sat 769 00:44:27.559 --> 00:44:30.639 there in silence. The man came back after a week 770 00:44:30.760 --> 00:44:34.199 and was surprised to see Michael, Miguel, Josey and Dan 771 00:44:34.360 --> 00:44:37.840 already there. When I received your offer, I talked to 772 00:44:37.920 --> 00:44:41.599 my friends first. They have more experience in this area. 773 00:44:41.920 --> 00:44:44.679 They think you might be right, but I'd rather hire 774 00:44:44.719 --> 00:44:48.280 local help. So thank you, but I'm going to pass. 775 00:44:48.639 --> 00:44:52.320 Have a nice day. He looked confident again and smiled. 776 00:44:52.639 --> 00:44:55.519 It's too bad you turned down our generous offer, but 777 00:44:55.679 --> 00:44:58.079 I understand you want to do what's best for your 778 00:44:58.079 --> 00:45:01.599 families and business. I'm leav being now. He stood up, 779 00:45:01.760 --> 00:45:05.039 but Dan shocked him by saying sit down. We have 780 00:45:05.239 --> 00:45:09.400 things to talk about. Your boss's care about profits. There 781 00:45:09.440 --> 00:45:13.119 won't be any gain here. Changing the neighborhood would be 782 00:45:13.239 --> 00:45:16.880 very expensive. The man smiled as he reached into his 783 00:45:16.960 --> 00:45:20.119 briefcase and pulled out a folder. Let me show you 784 00:45:20.280 --> 00:45:24.280 something here. It is Sergeant Dan Pettigrew. You live on 785 00:45:24.440 --> 00:45:27.559 eighteenth Street and you have a nice wife. You have 786 00:45:27.639 --> 00:45:30.840 a sixteen year old son who plays basketball and has 787 00:45:30.920 --> 00:45:34.639 college scouts interested in him. You even have a daughter 788 00:45:34.760 --> 00:45:39.199 in college. Impressive. College can be a risky place. Some 789 00:45:39.440 --> 00:45:43.480 students can vanish without a trace, Athletes often get hurt 790 00:45:43.559 --> 00:45:47.079 and miss their college chances. And your wife. You can't 791 00:45:47.119 --> 00:45:51.360 stop right there, I said, noticing Dan's grip tightening as 792 00:45:51.400 --> 00:45:55.800 I opened my own folder. Brian Maconkie, a lawyer from Harvard. 793 00:45:56.239 --> 00:45:59.679 Very impressive. You have an ex wife and two daughters 794 00:45:59.719 --> 00:46:04.280 in school, young women whose recutations are important for their futures. 795 00:46:04.599 --> 00:46:06.679 You know how tough it can be for them to 796 00:46:06.760 --> 00:46:11.079 handle certain situations. We both understand how serious things can 797 00:46:11.119 --> 00:46:14.320 get when families are involved. I think it's best if 798 00:46:14.400 --> 00:46:17.800 we just disagree and avoid each other in the future. 799 00:46:18.199 --> 00:46:21.360 His face changed from red to pale and back again. 800 00:46:21.719 --> 00:46:24.880 He stood up, giving us a harsh look. I'll tell 801 00:46:24.880 --> 00:46:27.239 my bosses it might be a good idea to wait 802 00:46:27.360 --> 00:46:29.960 a few years before they try to reach you again, 803 00:46:30.239 --> 00:46:33.239 but they are very determined. I urge you one last 804 00:46:33.320 --> 00:46:37.239 time to accept my offer. Before anyone could stop him, 805 00:46:37.400 --> 00:46:40.559 Miguel stood up and towered over the man. For the 806 00:46:40.639 --> 00:46:44.159 first time, I saw real fear on his face. I 807 00:46:44.280 --> 00:46:47.920 suggest you think about what you're doing. If anything happens 808 00:46:47.960 --> 00:46:50.519 to my grandmother, you will have to answer for it. 809 00:46:50.840 --> 00:46:54.440 I will make sure you understand the seriousness of your threats. 810 00:46:54.719 --> 00:46:57.519 You might think you're in control, but there's much more 811 00:46:57.559 --> 00:47:01.239 at stake than you know. That clearly shook. He glanced 812 00:47:01.280 --> 00:47:04.440 at Michael, who suggested that Miguel's words were just a 813 00:47:04.480 --> 00:47:07.119 warm up compared to what he planned to say. I 814 00:47:07.199 --> 00:47:10.800 won't confront you directly until I deal with those involved, 815 00:47:11.079 --> 00:47:14.159 but I'll keep you posted on how things go. Once 816 00:47:14.239 --> 00:47:17.360 everything is settled, I intend to act, and it won't 817 00:47:17.440 --> 00:47:22.199 be pleasant. Make sure your superiors understand they can't protect 818 00:47:22.239 --> 00:47:25.719 their friends forever. Think of this as a warning. The 819 00:47:25.840 --> 00:47:29.400 man was clearly shaken. He wanted to speak, but we 820 00:47:29.519 --> 00:47:34.360 quickly guided

him out. Hosey turned to me, is this recorded. Nope, 821 00:47:34.519 --> 00:47:37.679 this was one talk I thought should stay private. He's 822 00:47:37.760 --> 00:47:40.840 threatened all of us. What should we do now? We 823 00:47:41.000 --> 00:47:44.800 spent the night forming an uneasy partnership. I decided to 824 00:47:44.840 --> 00:47:48.559 have four guys, two from each group, watch our businesses 825 00:47:48.639 --> 00:47:52.480 at all times. I paid them fairly, making it official 826 00:47:52.559 --> 00:47:56.239 as assistant managers. I even had the two most noticeable 827 00:47:56.280 --> 00:47:59.760 ones wear shirts with store logos and help stock items. 828 00:48:00.119 --> 00:48:03.519 Sometimes they got it once I explained, you just hang 829 00:48:03.599 --> 00:48:06.239 around and people notice you When you help out a bit, 830 00:48:06.639 --> 00:48:10.599 carrying boxes and restocking shelves. They see you as employees, 831 00:48:10.800 --> 00:48:14.760 maybe lazy employees, but still workers. One of them even 832 00:48:15.000 --> 00:48:17.519 liked it enough to ask for a job. When things 833 00:48:17.559 --> 00:48:20.440 were done. I promised him that if he did his part, 834 00:48:20.760 --> 00:48:23.840 I would help him get training and guarantee him a position. 835 00:48:24.199 --> 00:48:27.679 Both clubs sent me updates through them, which I passed 836 00:48:27.719 --> 00:48:30.920 to Hose via his mother. A few days later, I 837 00:48:31.000 --> 00:48:33.719 saw in the newspapers that a barber shop had been 838 00:48:33.800 --> 00:48:36.880 rated as part of an investigation, and a warehouse with 839 00:48:36.960 --> 00:48:40.800 expensive stolen cars was discovered. These cars were ready to 840 00:48:40.920 --> 00:48:43.880 leave the country. The reports said they were linked to 841 00:48:44.119 --> 00:48:47.840 organized crime. Hose and Dan were out on their beat. 842 00:48:47.960 --> 00:48:50.800 During that time, I got a call from the lawyer. 843 00:48:51.119 --> 00:48:54.320 Did you do this? No? I told you, if you 844 00:48:54.480 --> 00:48:58.000 leave us alone, we'll leave you alone. I read about 845 00:48:58.039 --> 00:49:00.360 it in the paper and saw it on TV. Like 846 00:49:00.440 --> 00:49:04.400 everyone else. We can't be the only ones causing you problems, 847 00:49:04.559 --> 00:49:08.239 can we? He hung up without saying anything more. I 848 00:49:08.360 --> 00:49:11.840 give them credit. They were serious. They had to take 849 00:49:11.920 --> 00:49:15.519 action to keep their reputation. A man was caught trying 850 00:49:15.559 --> 00:49:18.599 to burn the bakery and was found unconscious outside the 851 00:49:18.679 --> 00:49:21.679 restaurant they used for cover. Rumor had it that he 852 00:49:21.800 --> 00:49:25.480 was injured badly. The lengths they went to surprise everyone. 853 00:49:25.800 --> 00:49:28.440 They hired a rival group to attack me Gel, but 854 00:49:28.599 --> 00:49:32.400 once their vehicle entered the neighborhood, they were recognized. When 855 00:49:32.440 --> 00:49:35.760 they got closer, sirens began to sound. A man in 856 00:49:35.800 --> 00:49:39.559 their car panicked, leading to a chaotic situation. They ended 857 00:49:39.639 --> 00:49:43.800 up seriously injuring one of Michael's associates. I arranged for 858 00:49:43.920 --> 00:49:46.960 food for the memorial with help from the grandmothers for 859 00:49:47.039 --> 00:49:50.280 the cakes. I shocked everyone by covering the costs of 860 00:49:50.360 --> 00:49:53.599 the funeral, making sure it was done right, and helped 861 00:49:53.599 --> 00:49:56.719 his mother with groceries for a year. I even found 862 00:49:56.840 --> 00:49:59.800 jobs for the younger boys to keep them busy. When 863 00:49:59.800 --> 00:50:03.559 they asked Michael for help, he told them, stay focused, 864 00:50:03.760 --> 00:50:07.360 little brothers. This isn't over and your mom doesn't need 865 00:50:07.360 --> 00:50:10.880 to lose any more sons. Two weeks after what happened, 866 00:50:10.920 --> 00:50:14.280 Michael took action at a butcher's shop, making things worse. 867 00:50:14.599 --> 00:50:17.800 They tried to come after me, but luckily one of 868 00:50:17.880 --> 00:50:21.159 my guards noticed something odd and came to my office. 869 00:50:21.480 --> 00:50:25.400 We might have a problem, boss. This guy looks suspicious. 870 00:50:25.719 --> 00:50:28.320 I checked the camera footage and saw how he was 871 00:50:28.360 --> 00:50:31.760 nervously looking around and had his hand under his jacket. 872 00:50:32.039 --> 00:50:36.079 This guy is an experienced cody. A professional would walk 873 00:50:36.119 --> 00:50:39.480 in confidently. Let's see if we can persuade him to 874 00:50:39.559 --> 00:50:43.639 leave quietly. I moved in quietly and approached him from behind. 875 00:50:43.800 --> 00:50:46.960 Can I help you find something, sir as? I thought 876 00:50:47.039 --> 00:50:51.119 he wasn't skilled. Someone with experience would have sensed danger 877 00:50:51.199 --> 00:50:55.559 and walked away. Instead, he turned around slowly and revealed 878 00:50:55.559 --> 00:50:59.119 a weapon. He was shaky and didn't listen to my warnings. 879 00:50:59.440 --> 00:51:02.239 I was too far away to stop him, so when 880 00:51:02.280 --> 00:51:06.480 things got serious, I took action. The incident was regrettable, 881 00:51:06.599 --> 00:51:09.360 but I had the video to show it was self defense. 882 00:51:09.719 --> 00:51:12.840 I only acted when it was clear he wouldn't back down. 883 00:51:13.119 --> 00:51:16.400 It was reported as a robbery that went wrong. Did 884 00:51:16.440 --> 00:51:19.840 I feel good about what happened? No, not at all. 885 00:51:20.079 --> 00:51:23.559 Could I have handled it differently? Maybe I tried not 886 00:51:23.719 --> 00:51:26.800 to let it bother me too much? Enough was enough. 887 00:51:27.239 --> 00:51:31.159 The next day, I stood outside the restaurant

when it opened. 888 00:51:31.280 --> 00:51:35.039 People recognized me right away, But when a staff member 889 00:51:35.119 --> 00:51:37.840 asked me to leave because of a private event, I 890 00:51:37.960 --> 00:51:40.800 asked him to tell mister Gee that I needed a 891 00:51:40.840 --> 00:51:43.599 few minutes with him. I was quite nervous when he 892 00:51:43.679 --> 00:51:46.159 came out and signaled for me to come sit at 893 00:51:46.159 --> 00:51:49.320 a table. You have a way of surprising me, mister 894 00:51:49.840 --> 00:51:53.519 Mr I didn't expect to see you today, I sighed. 895 00:51:53.920 --> 00:51:56.639 I came to see if I could help resolve things 896 00:51:56.719 --> 00:52:00.880 before they get worse. The situation won't fix itself. Your 897 00:52:00.920 --> 00:52:03.800 recent choices have brought a lot of attention, and that 898 00:52:04.000 --> 00:52:06.760 could put you in a tough spot. More violence is 899 00:52:06.800 --> 00:52:10.760 the last thing this city needs. He stayed, calm, Why 900 00:52:10.800 --> 00:52:13.719 are you telling me what I already know. I'm just 901 00:52:13.880 --> 00:52:18.360 making it clear where we are. A confrontation seems unavoidable 902 00:52:18.519 --> 00:52:22.679 for both sides. Will this really be worth it. More importantly, 903 00:52:22.920 --> 00:52:24.960 will it bring you more money? No matter how you 904 00:52:25.039 --> 00:52:28.960 run your business, it's still about making a profit. How 905 00:52:29.000 --> 00:52:32.280 profitable will it be if things turn chaotic? You know 906 00:52:32.440 --> 00:52:35.559 it's not that easy. I stood up to me. It 907 00:52:35.719 --> 00:52:39.000 is at least I can say I tried. Think about 908 00:52:39.000 --> 00:52:42.320 your families. This could lead to a cycle of revenge, 909 00:52:42.559 --> 00:52:46.000 and many will end up hurt. Let's stop this before 910 00:52:46.039 --> 00:52:49.039 it gets worse. This is just a small part of 911 00:52:49.079 --> 00:52:52.320 the big city. Let's move on. I thanked him and 912 00:52:52.440 --> 00:52:55.679 started to leave. He called out to me just as 913 00:52:55.719 --> 00:52:59.079 I reached the door. It's not just my choice. I 914 00:52:59.199 --> 00:53:02.079 share what I know with my superiors, and then we 915 00:53:02.199 --> 00:53:06.480 evaluate everything to ensure any actions make sense financially. This 916 00:53:06.519 --> 00:53:09.960 could become expensive quickly, and we don't want to waste 917 00:53:10.000 --> 00:53:14.679 money so away. To calm things down, no, a temporary agreement. 918 00:53:15.000 --> 00:53:17.880 If my team listens to my advice, we might have 919 00:53:18.000 --> 00:53:20.920 commis at least for a little while. It's the best 920 00:53:20.960 --> 00:53:23.960 I can do. I went back and offered my hand. 921 00:53:24.159 --> 00:53:27.639 He seemed surprised, but took it after a moment. His 922 00:53:27.800 --> 00:53:31.079 grip was strong and friendly, which was a good

sign. 923 00:53:31.400 --> 00:53:35.079 A firm grip usually shows confidence, while a weak one 924 00:53:35.159 --> 00:53:38.440 might make you question their honesty. A quick, firm hand 925 00:53:38.559 --> 00:53:42.239 jake shows respect and equality. I told Miguel and Michael 926 00:53:42.320 --> 00:53:45.000 that tensions were high and to be careful not to 927 00:53:45.079 --> 00:53:48.119 do anything that would make things worse. I shared what 928 00:53:48.199 --> 00:53:51.800 Jose and Dan had told me. Your being watched now. 929 00:53:52.079 --> 00:53:55.280 The recent events have caught the attention of authorities, and 930 00:53:55.360 --> 00:53:58.800 the new district attorney and mayor promised to improve safety 931 00:53:58.840 --> 00:54:02.880 and reduce problem. Be careful, and guys, if I reach 932 00:54:02.960 --> 00:54:05.639 out to you, it might be important if I say 933 00:54:05.679 --> 00:54:09.239 something like how's your mom doing? It means be prepared 934 00:54:09.320 --> 00:54:12.280 for a quick exit if things get tough. It's a 935 00:54:12.320 --> 00:54:15.559 good idea to have some resources ready just in case. 936 00:54:15.880 --> 00:54:19.119 I think they were both a bit surprised. They didn't 937 00:54:19.159 --> 00:54:23.039 really say much, just nodded. The district attorney tried to 938 00:54:23.119 --> 00:54:25.960 make a big deal about the situation, bringing in a 939 00:54:26.000 --> 00:54:28.719 team to deal with it. He even made a move 940 00:54:28.800 --> 00:54:32.199 against me, claiming I was linked to some local trouble. 941 00:54:32.440 --> 00:54:36.360 The community, worried about the store closing and losing their jobs, 942 00:54:36.519 --> 00:54:39.400 made a lot of noise to their local councilmen. They 943 00:54:39.480 --> 00:54:42.000 made it clear that if I was pushed out, it 944 00:54:42.039 --> 00:54:45.320 could hurt his political future. He was young and had 945 00:54:45.360 --> 00:54:48.639 bigger dreams, so he came out in my favor. We 946 00:54:48.840 --> 00:54:52.519 even had a press conference together. He praised my work 947 00:54:52.639 --> 00:54:55.440 and my role in the community. He joked that if 948 00:54:55.480 --> 00:54:58.239 I ran a campaign based on ice cream, he would 949 00:54:58.280 --> 00:55:01.159 be out of a job. It all stop, like many 950 00:55:01.239 --> 00:55:05.039 things in my life. Recently, by chance, Alice had a 951 00:55:05.079 --> 00:55:08.880 younger sister struggling in school and needing help. She was 952 00:55:08.960 --> 00:55:11.920 twelve and came to work with Alice one day since 953 00:55:11.960 --> 00:55:15.280 she was bored. We ended up talking and I pointed 954 00:55:15.320 --> 00:55:19.199 out how important education is for Alice. She was about 955 00:55:19.239 --> 00:55:21.920 to get her two year degree in three weeks and 956 00:55:22.039 --> 00:55:25.599 wanted to keep studying. I helped her look into scholarships 957 00:55:25.599 --> 00:55:28.239 for kids in need, which meant I might lose a 958 00:55:28.320 --> 00:55:31.559 manager at least for a couple of years. She was 959 00:55:31.639 --> 00:55:34.639 hoping to go to a nearby college and still work 960 00:55:34.719 --> 00:55:38.159 part time. Amy was having a hard time with math, 961 00:55:38.239 --> 00:55:41.119 and I was always good at it, so I helped 962 00:55:41.119 --> 00:55:43.800 her for about an hour. I showed her how to 963 00:55:43.880 --> 00:55:47.320 break down each problem into simpler parts and then put 964 00:55:47.360 --> 00:55:50.719 them back together to find the right answer. She laughed 965 00:55:50.760 --> 00:55:53.679 happily when it finally clicked for her. I took her 966 00:55:53.840 --> 00:55:57.000 over to the ice cream cooler, picked out a box 967 00:55:57.039 --> 00:55:59.840 of her favorite flavor, and gave it to her. I'm 968 00:56:00.000 --> 00:56:02.559 made her a promise. For every better grade she got 969 00:56:02.599 --> 00:56:05.840 on her report card, she would earn some ice cream. 970 00:56:06.119 --> 00:56:09.039 If she got an in any subject, she would get 971 00:56:09.079 --> 00:56:12.519 a whole box. It seems she told her friends, because 972 00:56:12.519 --> 00:56:15.280 a week later they were all waiting for me. Can 973 00:56:15.320 --> 00:56:17.920 we get the same deal with only five of them? 974 00:56:18.199 --> 00:56:22.400 I agreed without much thought. Now for elementary schools, two 975 00:56:22.440 --> 00:56:26.000 middle schools, and even a high school were involved. I 976 00:56:26.119 --> 00:56:29.159 put Alice in charge, with Amy helping her, and every 977 00:56:29.239 --> 00:56:33.239 Friday afternoon, almost two hundred kids would line up. If 978 00:56:33.280 --> 00:56:36.320 anyone got anna in anything, we made a copy of 979 00:56:36.360 --> 00:56:39.400 the grade and posted it in our store window, highlighting 980 00:56:39.440 --> 00:56:43.000 the in yellow. If someone got straight a's, they earned 981 00:56:43.000 --> 00:56:46.440 a pizza party. Luckily, I could buy ice cream and 982 00:56:46.519 --> 00:56:50.480 pizza in bulk. One day, I surprised everyone by speaking 983 00:56:50.559 --> 00:56:53.840 into the microphone. I'd like to share a few thoughts 984 00:56:53.880 --> 00:56:56.639 if I can. I want to start by saying that 985 00:56:56.760 --> 00:57:00.320 I work with people who have faced challenges in their lives. 986 00:57:00.599 --> 00:57:03.559 About two thirds of my workers have gone through tough times, 987 00:57:03.960 --> 00:57:07.079 but that doesn't stop them from being honest and reliable 988 00:57:07.119 --> 00:57:10.039 workers who want to leave their pasts behind and create 989 00:57:10.079 --> 00:57:13.119 a good life for their families. My store is open 990 00:57:13.159 --> 00:57:16.079 to everyone in the community, no matter who they are 991 00:57:16.199 --> 00:57:18.960 or what their past looks like. A big city is 992 00:57:19.039 --> 00:57:22.199 made up of

small communities, just like a village. In 993 00:57:22.239 --> 00:57:26.360 a village, everyone knows each other. So yes, I work 994 00:57:26.400 --> 00:57:29.280 with people from different backgrounds, and I even have some 995 00:57:29.400 --> 00:57:32.239 who have really changed their lives for the better. They 996 00:57:32.280 --> 00:57:34.800 do a good job, and as long as they meet 997 00:57:34.840 --> 00:57:37.920 my standards, I have no problem with them. If their 998 00:57:37.960 --> 00:57:41.679 friends stop by and behave, I don't say anything. I 999 00:57:41.760 --> 00:57:45.400 won't judge them. That's for the community to decide, and 1000 00:57:45.519 --> 00:57:48.360 in the end, they will answer for any mistakes they 1001 00:57:48.400 --> 00:57:51.639 may have made. What I do is very small compared 1002 00:57:51.679 --> 00:57:55.000 to that, so I welcome everyone to my businesses if 1003 00:57:55.039 --> 00:57:57.760 they act right. There is a lot of goodness in 1004 00:57:57.840 --> 00:58:00.880 this community that often gets over lofe book to finish. 1005 00:58:01.079 --> 00:58:03.719 I never thought I would end up here, but I 1006 00:58:03.800 --> 00:58:06.199 was led this way and now this is my home 1007 00:58:06.320 --> 00:58:08.679 and I'm proud to be part of it. The crowd 1008 00:58:08.760 --> 00:58:13.159 cheered and clapped in approval. The politicians, realizing the support 1009 00:58:13.280 --> 00:58:16.719 he had, backed down I even received the Businessman of 1010 00:58:16.760 --> 00:58:19.320 the Year award from the city. There was a nice 1011 00:58:19.440 --> 00:58:22.199 article about me in the papers, and I even made 1012 00:58:22.239 --> 00:58:26.960 appearances on local television. It seemed like someone was paying attention. 1013 00:58:27.239 --> 00:58:30.719 Two weeks later, the councilman for our area asked to 1014 00:58:30.800 --> 00:58:33.599 meet with me. He brought another man along and we 1015 00:58:33.679 --> 00:58:37.639 met at the pastry shop. While we enjoyed coffee and pastries, 1016 00:58:38.079 --> 00:58:42.440 the man explained his request. I'm also a councilman representing 1017 00:58:42.480 --> 00:58:45.920 a similar area in another city. We have high crime, 1018 00:58:46.280 --> 00:58:50.599 many problems, and high unemployment issues that affect people in need. 1019 00:58:50.800 --> 00:58:53.280 Bill told me about you after we met at a 1020 00:58:53.320 --> 00:58:56.760 conference last week. If you could spare some time, I'd 1021 00:58:56.800 --> 00:58:59.199 love for you to visit our city, talk to the 1022 00:58:59.239 --> 00:59:02.800 council and sh share what you've done. Perhaps your experience 1023 00:59:02.840 --> 00:59:06.119 could help us start something similar. Have you ever thought 1024 00:59:06.159 --> 00:59:10.360 about expanding I hadn't considered it before. I was doing 1025 00:59:10.400 --> 00:59:13.599 well with the bakeries, the store, and the pastry shop. 1026 00:59:13.880 -->

00:59:15.960 I was proud of what I had built and the 1027 00:59:16.000 --> 00:59:19.400 positive impact I was making in the community. I agreed 1028 00:59:19.519 --> 00:59:23.000 to meet with them in three weeks. First, I discussed 1029 00:59:23.000 --> 00:59:27.719 it with my advisers, both Grandma's Dan Josei, miss Chen, Michael, 1030 00:59:27.800 --> 00:59:31.079 and Miguel. Everyone agreed that I should offer my help 1031 00:59:31.119 --> 00:59:34.320 if possible. I rented a big van and they all 1032 00:59:34.360 --> 00:59:37.559 traveled with me. They dropped me off near by, wanting 1033 00:59:37.679 --> 00:59:40.599 to explore the area while I talked to the council. 1034 00:59:40.960 --> 00:59:44.960 The meeting lasted three hours. Most of the council members 1035 00:59:45.000 --> 00:59:48.440 supported a program like mine, though two were against it 1036 00:59:48.519 --> 00:59:52.039 for reasons that weren't clear. When I finished, my group 1037 00:59:52.199 --> 00:59:54.320 was waiting for me and they took me to a 1038 00:59:54.400 --> 00:59:57.719 sole food restaurant they had found. I noticed I was 1039 00:59:57.800 --> 00:59:59.840 the only person from out of town and the b 1040 01:00:00.000 --> 01:00:03.320 busy dining room, and for a moment, the chatter stopped 1041 01:00:03.320 --> 01:00:07.679 when we entered. Then people resumed talking once they decided 1042 01:00:07.719 --> 01:00:11.239 I meant no harm. Dan started the discussion. There's a 1043 01:00:11.280 --> 01:00:14.599 medium sized GROCERI store two blocks away that has been 1044 01:00:14.639 --> 01:00:17.920 closed for four years, so it needs a lot of work. 1045 01:00:18.239 --> 01:00:21.280 Grand Mavasque is added. It's in a strip mall and 1046 01:00:21.360 --> 01:00:23.480 there's a store front next to it that would be 1047 01:00:23.519 --> 01:00:26.679 great for a pastry shop. You could hire locals and 1048 01:00:26.800 --> 01:00:29.719 do what you did with us. We can help train 1049 01:00:29.840 --> 01:00:33.960 them and share recipes. Miss Chen spoke next, if we 1050 01:00:34.079 --> 01:00:37.360 put our programs to work. You could probably get all 1051 01:00:37.400 --> 01:00:40.280 the empty shops for very little money. A bit of 1052 01:00:40.320 --> 01:00:44.039 renovating and creating a safe place could fill every shop. 1053 01:00:44.320 --> 01:00:48.000 It's a great opportunity. Michael and Miguel mentioned that there 1054 01:00:48.000 --> 01:00:51.239 were some local activities, but they were small and didn't 1055 01:00:51.280 --> 01:00:55.960 involve large groups. Not enough money is flowing in, Miguel said, 1056 01:00:56.280 --> 01:00:59.239 so it's not worth their time. I looked around the 1057 01:00:59.280 --> 01:01:03.840 table at their smiling faces. Grandma Greeley summed it up nicely. 1058 01:01:04.239 --> 01:01:07.639 You have everything set up well at home. To be honest, 1059 01:01:07.880 --> 01:01:11.159 you've looked a little bored lately. Work your

magic one 1060 01:01:11.159 --> 01:01:14.159 more time. I thought about it for a few days. 1061 01:01:14.599 --> 01:01:18.760 Then mister Chen and I scheduled some meetings. She helped 1062 01:01:18.760 --> 01:01:21.480 me get the plans I needed, and I purchased the 1063 01:01:21.559 --> 01:01:25.280 strip mall. The construction crews took four months to finish 1064 01:01:25.320 --> 01:01:28.360 the grocery store, and I used that time to hire 1065 01:01:28.400 --> 01:01:31.320 the right people. I found a new store manager, a 1066 01:01:31.400 --> 01:01:34.719 fifty eight year old Hispanic woman who had been overlooked 1067 01:01:34.760 --> 01:01:38.480 for promotions at her last job. She was incredibly helpful, 1068 01:01:38.559 --> 01:01:42.679 bringing in talented folks, mostly from minority backgrounds, who had 1069 01:01:42.719 --> 01:01:46.400 few chances elsewhere The day before we opened, there was 1070 01:01:46.440 --> 01:01:49.800 a big media event, covered by local newspapers and all 1071 01:01:49.880 --> 01:01:53.599 the city's television stations. I introduced the team that would 1072 01:01:53.679 --> 01:01:57.920 run the store, from Missus Hernandez to every part time worker. 1073 01:01:58.239 --> 01:02:01.000 We toured the store, highlighting the world wide aisles, the 1074 01:02:01.039 --> 01:02:04.599 well stocked shells, the bright produce area, and the modern 1075 01:02:04.639 --> 01:02:08.199 butcher's shop. The media seemed impressed and the clips were 1076 01:02:08.239 --> 01:02:11.320 great on TV. A crowd gathered at the door an 1077 01:02:11.400 --> 01:02:15.719 hour before our opening. Missus Hernandez and I stood at 1078 01:02:15.760 --> 01:02:18.760 the entrance, welcoming as many people as we could and 1079 01:02:18.880 --> 01:02:22.280 giving out coupons that were good only for opening day. 1080 01:02:22.639 --> 01:02:25.280 We had one thousand printed and they were all gone 1081 01:02:25.320 --> 01:02:28.599 by noon. Business slowed a bit after the first month, 1082 01:02:28.800 --> 01:02:32.559 but it remained strong. Two months later, the pastry shop 1083 01:02:32.639 --> 01:02:36.119 opened and got positive attention as well. The Grand muss 1084 01:02:36.159 --> 01:02:39.000 who helped with the pastries, made a special appearance and 1085 01:02:39.079 --> 01:02:42.480 were surprised to find they had become famous. Opera had 1086 01:02:42.519 --> 01:02:45.719 heard about them and invited them to our show. She 1087 01:02:45.920 --> 01:02:49.000 was impressed with the story, especially my part in it. 1088 01:02:49.280 --> 01:02:53.719 Grand Magreeley smiled, who knew a flat tire, Collard Greens 1089 01:02:53.960 --> 01:02:56.519 and a wonderfully kind young man would lead us to 1090 01:02:56.559 --> 01:02:59.320 where we are now. Steve Moore was a gift from 1091 01:02:59.360 --> 01:03:02.400 above and one of the nicest people I've ever met, 1092 01:03:02.679 --> 01:03:06.000 and ladies he's single. Opera chuckled and

said that I 1093 01:03:06.079 --> 01:03:09.400 sounded like a great catch, and the audience responded with 1094 01:03:09.559 --> 01:03:13.599 cheers when my picture appeared on the screen. A month later, 1095 01:03:13.840 --> 01:03:17.960 a fast food style Chinese restaurant opened and became popular 1096 01:03:18.039 --> 01:03:21.480 right away. Then a woman entered the store and asked 1097 01:03:21.480 --> 01:03:24.519 if she could speak with me about an opportunity. She 1098 01:03:24.800 --> 01:03:29.000 was tall, confident, with very short hair and expressive dark eyes. 1099 01:03:29.400 --> 01:03:32.159 She seemed amused when it took me a moment to 1100 01:03:32.239 --> 01:03:35.880 gather my thoughts. I invited her over to the pastry shop, 1101 01:03:36.000 --> 01:03:39.400 and while we've enjoyed coffee and a pastry, she shared 1102 01:03:39.440 --> 01:03:43.159 her idea. I want to open a restaurant, not just 1103 01:03:43.320 --> 01:03:47.679 any restaurant, a soul food restaurant. My grandmother was from 1104 01:03:47.679 --> 01:03:50.719 a bayou in Louisiana and she taught me Cajun and 1105 01:03:50.800 --> 01:03:54.880 Kravol cooking. My other grandmother is from South Carolina and 1106 01:03:55.000 --> 01:03:59.320 shared all her family recipes. My grandfathers were from France 1107 01:03:59.400 --> 01:04:02.199 and Mexico, and I learned from them too. I have 1108 01:04:02.360 --> 01:04:07.119 worked in restaurants in Los Angeles, New Orleans, Charlotte, and Atlanta, 1109 01:04:07.360 --> 01:04:10.360 and I learned something from each one. My cooking will 1110 01:04:10.400 --> 01:04:14.199 be special, a mix of traditional soul food with flavors 1111 01:04:14.239 --> 01:04:17.960 from around the world. That explained her warm skin tone. 1112 01:04:18.239 --> 01:04:21.159 Why are you telling me this because I want to 1113 01:04:21.239 --> 01:04:24.159 open a restaurant here in this spot. I could take 1114 01:04:24.320 --> 01:04:27.599 both empty places and turn them into a cozy spot 1115 01:04:27.679 --> 01:04:31.039 with plenty of space. If you want my support, you 1116 01:04:31.159 --> 01:04:35.280 have it. Please contact my management team and start the paperwork. 1117 01:04:35.360 --> 01:04:39.320 For the first time, she seemed unsure. I can't. Why 1118 01:04:39.360 --> 01:04:43.000 not because I don't have enough money. I have saved some, 1119 01:04:43.480 --> 01:04:45.760 but it's still less than half of what I need 1120 01:04:45.800 --> 01:04:48.840 to do it well, I don't want to cut corners. 1121 01:04:49.159 --> 01:04:52.360 I understood what she was implying. You want me to 1122 01:04:52.480 --> 01:04:54.960 invest in you, to be one of your partners, She 1123 01:04:55.119 --> 01:04:57.960 shook her head. No, I want you to be my 1124 01:04:58.159 --> 01:05:02.760 only partner. Too many peace people makes things complicated. If 1125 01:05:02.800 --> 01:05:05.440 I have to discuss things, I want to do it 1126 01:05:05.480 --> 01:05:09.400 with just one person. Sandra handed me a folder. Here 1127 01:05:09.480 --> 01:05:12.840 are my qualifications of financial report and a list of 1128 01:05:12.920 --> 01:05:16.239 costs to get started. Everything I think you might need 1129 01:05:16.559 --> 01:05:19.480 if you want anything else, I can get it for you. 1130 01:05:19.800 --> 01:05:22.719 I looked at the papers. It seems like you have 1131 01:05:22.840 --> 01:05:26.920 thought of everything. I hope, so one more thing. You'll 1132 01:05:26.960 --> 01:05:30.920 own fifty one percent, so every final decision will be yours. 1133 01:05:31.239 --> 01:05:34.159 I will need full control of the kitchen and staff. 1134 01:05:34.519 --> 01:05:38.280 Think about it. It's a good investment and my dream, 1135 01:05:38.519 --> 01:05:41.920 and I believe it can be very profitable. I smiled. 1136 01:05:42.239 --> 01:05:44.920 I'm in a place in my life where money isn't 1137 01:05:44.960 --> 01:05:47.639 a worry for me, but I do get bored easily 1138 01:05:47.679 --> 01:05:51.079 without new projects. I'll think about it. If I decide 1139 01:05:51.079 --> 01:05:54.239 not to join you, I'll introduce you to some people 1140 01:05:54.320 --> 01:05:58.280 who might be interested. I don't want anyone else. Call 1141 01:05:58.360 --> 01:06:01.119 me if you want to meet again or have questions. 1142 01:06:01.400 --> 01:06:04.360 Thank you for your time. She shook my hand firmly 1143 01:06:04.440 --> 01:06:08.320 and left. I watched her with admiration. I turned to 1144 01:06:08.360 --> 01:06:13.119 see the staff smiling. Missus Wilminton, who the grandmothers chose 1145 01:06:13.159 --> 01:06:16.079 to run the shop, hugged me. So coffee and a 1146 01:06:16.119 --> 01:06:19.119 snack A nice way to get to know someone. She 1147 01:06:19.320 --> 01:06:23.679 seems wonderful. I'm sure she is, Missus double you, but 1148 01:06:23.800 --> 01:06:27.440 it was just a business meeting. Her smile grew. Well, 1149 01:06:27.760 --> 01:06:31.039 maybe it could turn into something more. She seemed to 1150 01:06:31.320 --> 01:06:35.679 like you, missus, double you please. I have enough pressure 1151 01:06:35.760 --> 01:06:39.239 from the grandmother's I don't need more. I've had two 1152 01:06:39.280 --> 01:06:43.000 tough experiences with marriage, and I'm a bit cautious about 1153 01:06:43.039 --> 01:06:47.400 new relationships. She patted my arm. That was likely because 1154 01:06:47.440 --> 01:06:50.559 we weren't around to help you. Now go look over 1155 01:06:50.639 --> 01:06:54.000 those papers. I'd love to see a partnership grow in 1156 01:06:54.119 --> 01:06:57.760 more ways than one. I took her advice. The business 1157 01:06:57.760 --> 01:07:01.760 plan looked solid and her qualification were impressive. I was 1158 01:07:01.840 --> 01:07:05.360 still a bit unsure, since opening a restaurant can be 1159 01:07:05.480 --> 01:07:08.920 a tricky choice. Most fail within the first year, and 1160

01:07:09.079 --> 01:07:13.039 many of those that survive often closed shortly after. However, 1161 01:07:13.280 --> 01:07:16.519 many failures come from poor choices, lack of money, and 1162 01:07:16.599 --> 01:07:21.119 bad management. With a strong plan, good funding, smart management, 1163 01:07:21.280 --> 01:07:24.239 and a little luck, you could do very well. My 1164 01:07:24.360 --> 01:07:28.360 lawyers looked over the documents and approved the idea. Miss 1165 01:07:28.519 --> 01:07:32.079 Chen wrapped it up neatly. Even if it doesn't work out, 1166 01:07:32.400 --> 01:07:35.039 you can still write it off for your taxes. But 1167 01:07:35.199 --> 01:07:38.119 you seem to have a magic touch, and I believe 1168 01:07:38.239 --> 01:07:42.000 this will bring good results. Every Sunday I drove home 1169 01:07:42.079 --> 01:07:45.639 for family dinners. I had a house near my first store, 1170 01:07:45.679 --> 01:07:48.320 on the edge of a rough area. My place was 1171 01:07:48.360 --> 01:07:51.920 between gran Ma Greeley and grandm Vasquez, so it was 1172 01:07:52.000 --> 01:07:55.079 always watched while I was gone. Hani and her new 1173 01:07:55.159 --> 01:07:57.960 husband were also taking care of it for me. This 1174 01:07:58.199 --> 01:08:01.119 kept the house in good shape and helped them save 1175 01:08:01.280 --> 01:08:04.840 for their own place. Sunday lunch was a big family event, 1176 01:08:04.920 --> 01:08:09.039 with Michael, Miguel, Alice, Amy, Connie, their partners and kids, 1177 01:08:09.079 --> 01:08:13.360 Hosse Dan their families and kids, plus various friends, making 1178 01:08:13.400 --> 01:08:17.239 the tables very full. Sometimes. I always took the chance 1179 01:08:17.319 --> 01:08:22.279 to talk about business during these gatherings, thankful for their opinions. 1180 01:08:22.319 --> 01:08:25.319 While they may not of degrees in business, though a 1181 01:08:25.399 --> 01:08:29.680 few did, they had something more important, good common sense. 1182 01:08:30.199 --> 01:08:33.000 The newspaper even had a picture of Sandra in a 1183 01:08:33.079 --> 01:08:37.600 chef's outfit, which made everone smile. After discussing it, Alice 1184 01:08:37.640 --> 01:08:40.680 and Connie suggested an idea. Have her cook for you. 1185 01:08:41.039 --> 01:08:43.560 That will be the key part of the business. If 1186 01:08:43.600 --> 01:08:47.079 she can't cook, it won't work. You too, are brilliant, 1187 01:08:47.359 --> 01:08:50.600 but cooking for one person doesn't give you much feedback. 1188 01:08:50.800 --> 01:08:53.199 I'll invite her to cook for all of us and 1189 01:08:53.359 --> 01:08:56.800 use her best recipes. Then I can get honest thoughts 1190 01:08:56.840 --> 01:09:00.319 from people I trust. That got everone excited, and we 1191 01:09:00.439 --> 01:09:03.239 plan for it to happen in two weeks if she 1192 01:09:03.600 --> 01:09:07.000 was free. It turned out she was available. How many 1193 01:09:07.039 --> 01:09:10.720 people will be there, I expect about thirty. Most will 1194 01:09:10.760 --> 01:09:14.279 be employees and partners, with a few old friends. Not 1195 01:09:14.479 --> 01:09:17.520 to add any pressure, but my three grandmothers and my 1196 01:09:17.640 --> 01:09:20.760 mother will be there, and they have strong opinions. I'd 1197 01:09:20.800 --> 01:09:23.920 ask how you have three grandmothers, but I think I'll 1198 01:09:23.960 --> 01:09:26.920 wait until we can talk about it in person. There's 1199 01:09:26.960 --> 01:09:30.079 a problem, though I can't fit that many people in 1200 01:09:30.159 --> 01:09:33.960 my apartment. I had a solution, not an issue. If 1201 01:09:33.960 --> 01:09:36.640 you can do it on a Sunday. The pastry shop 1202 01:09:36.800 --> 01:09:39.439 is free. It may not be the way you're used to, 1203 01:09:39.920 --> 01:09:42.840 but it's still a working kitchen. I'll need help for 1204 01:09:42.920 --> 01:09:46.560 that much cooking. You sound hesitant about this. If you 1205 01:09:46.640 --> 01:09:49.279 want to run your own place, you'll have to handle 1206 01:09:49.359 --> 01:09:53.399 unexpected challenges. I think I upset her a bit. Her 1207 01:09:53.439 --> 01:09:56.960 response was a little sharp. Two weeks. I will take 1208 01:09:57.039 --> 01:10:00.279 care of everything. I will serve the meal. If a 1209 01:10:00.399 --> 01:10:03.319 a one is late, you will start without them. I 1210 01:10:03.439 --> 01:10:05.920 want the food to be ready on time. So ever 1211 01:10:06.000 --> 01:10:09.720 one can enjoy it. I will talk to missus Wilmington 1212 01:10:09.880 --> 01:10:13.399 to get access to the kitchen on Saturday night for preparation. 1213 01:10:13.880 --> 01:10:17.199 Good bye. After she hung up, I looked at the phone. 1214 01:10:17.560 --> 01:10:21.680 She definitely had a strong character. Then again, all chefs 1215 01:10:21.760 --> 01:10:24.960 seemed a bit intense to me. I got another call 1216 01:10:25.039 --> 01:10:28.279 the following week. Do any members of your group follow 1217 01:10:28.359 --> 01:10:31.680 Jewish or Muslim customs? If so, I will need to 1218 01:10:31.800 --> 01:10:35.279 change the menu. Miss Chen and her husband are Jewish, 1219 01:10:35.319 --> 01:10:38.880 and Michael's girlfriend follows a slam. Other than them, the 1220 01:10:38.960 --> 01:10:42.520 rest of us will eat most things. Thank you, See 1221 01:10:42.560 --> 01:10:46.800 you next Sunday. The call ended. My family arrived on time, 1222 01:10:47.199 --> 01:10:50.760 using three vans to fit everone. Sandra opened the door 1223 01:10:50.840 --> 01:10:54.159 at one thousand, two hundred thirty and I introduced everyone 1224 01:10:54.359 --> 01:10:58.079 as they walked in. I saved the grandmothers for last. 1225 01:10:58.479 --> 01:11:02.920 This is my grandmother Tina Vascus, my grandmother Celia Greeley, 1226 01:11:03.119 --> 01:11:07.319 my mother Veronica Chen, and my grandmother Sarah Mure. She 1227 01:11:07.439 -->

01:11:10.319 was happy when they all hugged her and complimented her 1228 01:11:10.399 --> 01:11:13.720 on how wonderful the food smelt. She had hired two 1229 01:11:13.760 --> 01:11:16.359 young women from a bakery to help out and set 1230 01:11:16.439 --> 01:11:19.840 up the meal buffet style with signs showing which foods 1231 01:11:19.840 --> 01:11:25.800 were kosher and suitable forever one. The drinks included sweetened tea, lemonade, coffee, 1232 01:11:25.840 --> 01:11:28.600 and water with no sodas. The food was a mix 1233 01:11:28.640 --> 01:11:32.680 of shrimp and grits, seasoned chicken piea with mussels and clams, 1234 01:11:32.800 --> 01:11:36.760 Southern fried chicken, a dish with chickens and ham, flank steak, 1235 01:11:36.920 --> 01:11:41.079 and a mushroom sauce, fried catfish and pulled pork. Side 1236 01:11:41.119 --> 01:11:45.359 dishes included pinto beans with ham, collared greens, grilled corn 1237 01:11:45.399 --> 01:11:49.239 on the cob, green beans, small potatoes that were microwaved 1238 01:11:49.279 --> 01:11:53.479 and fried, potato salad, coals law, a layered salad, diced 1239 01:11:53.520 --> 01:11:57.439 heirloom tomatoes, and a vinegar and oil dressing with fresh basil, 1240 01:11:57.520 --> 01:12:00.880 served in cups. Fried corn bread pancakes, a big piece 1241 01:12:00.880 --> 01:12:04.000 of baked corn bread, and homemade yeast rolls. For dessert, 1242 01:12:04.239 --> 01:12:07.159 there were fried apple and peach pies, a four layer 1243 01:12:07.279 --> 01:12:11.279 chocolate cake, banana pudding, and homemade ice cream and banana 1244 01:12:11.359 --> 01:12:15.399 and vanilla flavors. Simple home style food, but in my opinion, 1245 01:12:15.920 --> 01:12:19.680 just as important as anything else. Everyone enjoyed the meal 1246 01:12:19.800 --> 01:12:22.960 until they were full. The meal lasted for hours since 1247 01:12:23.039 --> 01:12:26.439 no one rushed and everyone wanted to try everything. I 1248 01:12:26.640 --> 01:12:29.319 liked most of the food, except for the seasoned chicken, 1249 01:12:29.640 --> 01:12:32.840 which was a bit too spicy for me. I especially 1250 01:12:33.039 --> 01:12:36.560 enjoyed the fried chicken and the small potatoes. The fried 1251 01:12:36.600 --> 01:12:40.439 pies were good, but perhaps not as special as Grand mogreelies, 1252 01:12:40.520 --> 01:12:43.720 though that might just be my opinion. The banana pudding 1253 01:12:43.920 --> 01:12:47.000 was so delicious it nearly brought me to tears. It 1254 01:12:47.119 --> 01:12:50.199 was a big bowl that vanished in just a few minutes. 1255 01:12:50.560 --> 01:12:53.439 There was still some left, so Alice went to the 1256 01:12:53.439 --> 01:12:56.600 store to buy every plastic bowl and a lot of bags. 1257 01:12:56.840 --> 01:12:59.960 For some reason, Sandra didn't let me help and buy them. 1258 01:13:00.079 --> 01:13:03.279 The time I was free, everything was gone. I think 1259 01:13:03.399 --> 01:13:06.359 she smiled to

herself when she thought I wasn't looking 1260 01:13:06.600 --> 01:13:09.960 just like the grandma's. She reminded us to finish up 1261 01:13:10.039 --> 01:13:12.640 by four because she needed to tidy up for the 1262 01:13:12.720 --> 01:13:16.199 next day. I decided not to call her. She waited 1263 01:13:16.319 --> 01:13:19.680 until the next Thursday to come into the store. Walking 1264 01:13:19.720 --> 01:13:23.359 straight to my office, I was reviewing videos from the 1265 01:13:23.479 --> 01:13:26.800 night before about the first robbery attempt. Since we opened. 1266 01:13:26.960 --> 01:13:30.159 The cashiers did what they were trained to do, opening 1267 01:13:30.199 --> 01:13:33.600 the registers and stepping back our new registers had a 1268 01:13:33.640 --> 01:13:36.560 special button that would call the police if pressed. While 1269 01:13:36.560 --> 01:13:39.840 opening the till, I felt for the young men involved. 1270 01:13:40.159 --> 01:13:43.960 One was seventeen and the other was nineteen. In that state, 1271 01:13:44.239 --> 01:13:47.560 robbery came with a seven year sentence. They had taken 1272 01:13:47.680 --> 01:13:51.000 from me and threatened my workers. The police were ready 1273 01:13:51.039 --> 01:13:54.119 when the suspects ran out to their car. They looked 1274 01:13:54.119 --> 01:13:57.840 for the driver as four officers stepped out, police stop 1275 01:13:58.000 --> 01:14:01.079 and back away from the car. One suspect did as 1276 01:14:01.119 --> 01:14:05.119 he was told, raising his hands. The other hesitated until 1277 01:14:05.159 --> 01:14:08.920 he realized the officers were serious. Then he gave up 1278 01:14:08.960 --> 01:14:12.960 his weapon. The cashiers received three paid days off to recover, 1279 01:14:13.119 --> 01:14:16.279 and help was offered to them. Two decided to return, 1280 01:14:16.600 --> 01:14:20.439 while one, feeling very shaken, chose to leave. I gave 1281 01:14:20.520 --> 01:14:23.640 her a month's pay and wished her the best. Sandra 1282 01:14:23.880 --> 01:14:27.279 entered my office with her arms crossed and a serious look. 1283 01:14:27.600 --> 01:14:31.520 While Hello, miss Sandra, it's good to see you. How's 1284 01:14:31.560 --> 01:14:35.039 the weather. I was thinking about taking some time off, 1285 01:14:35.439 --> 01:14:38.439 maybe go to the coast and do some fishing. I 1286 01:14:38.600 --> 01:14:41.279 noticed her mood and knew I had to be careful. 1287 01:14:41.399 --> 01:14:44.199 Please take a seat. I was going to call you. 1288 01:14:44.560 --> 01:14:48.439 The food was amazing. My family is still talking about it. 1289 01:14:48.800 --> 01:14:52.239 She softened for a moment, but quickly went back to business. 1290 01:14:52.560 --> 01:14:56.319 I'm glad you have an interesting family. I especially liked 1291 01:14:56.359 --> 01:15:00.600 your grandmother's They have more wisdom than most places. So 1292 01:15:00.800 --> 01:15:03.439 are you going to team up with me? I've thought 1293 01:15:03.439 --> 01:15:06.479 a lot about it and discussed it with my advisers. 1294 01:15:06.760 --> 01:15:10.119 After careful thought, I've decided to pass on the deal. 1295 01:15:10.439 --> 01:15:14.359 Her eyes showed her disappointment. Unable to help myself, I 1296 01:15:14.439 --> 01:15:17.680 went over to comfort her. She leaned into me briefly 1297 01:15:17.760 --> 01:15:21.600 before pulling away, her frustration returning, let go of me. 1298 01:15:22.079 --> 01:15:24.479 You know what you can't do with your money. I 1299 01:15:24.600 --> 01:15:27.119 gently put my hand over her mouth to help her 1300 01:15:27.119 --> 01:15:30.000 calm down. You have a great gift for cooking and 1301 01:15:30.079 --> 01:15:33.039 a special style in how you present your dishes. This 1302 01:15:33.199 --> 01:15:36.520 restaurant can really succeed, but the money you want at 1303 01:15:36.560 --> 01:15:39.800 first won't be enough. You need some extra funds to 1304 01:15:39.920 --> 01:15:43.199 keep things running for at least six months, so I'm 1305 01:15:43.279 --> 01:15:46.640 raising my offer to help you focus on growing your business. 1306 01:15:46.880 --> 01:15:50.199 Don't worry, I will stick to our agreement. What do 1307 01:15:50.359 --> 01:15:53.399 you think are you ready to sign the papers? We 1308 01:15:53.560 --> 01:15:56.600 can go to the law office right now, Miss Chen 1309 01:15:56.760 --> 01:16:00.239 has everything ready. She suggests you speak with your own 1310 01:16:00.359 --> 01:16:03.760 lawyer first to make sure everything is clear. How does 1311 01:16:03.840 --> 01:16:07.439 that sound. She took a moment to think about my offer. 1312 01:16:07.840 --> 01:16:11.279 Then she began to show her feelings again. Tears came 1313 01:16:11.359 --> 01:16:14.880 to her eyes, whether from happiness or sadness. I guess 1314 01:16:15.000 --> 01:16:18.000 she had a different kind of tears for every situation. 1315 01:16:18.399 --> 01:16:20.920 I let her cry for a while and handed her 1316 01:16:20.960 --> 01:16:24.479 a box of tissues. Fifteen minutes later, she dried her 1317 01:16:24.520 --> 01:16:28.600 eyes and faced me. Your grandmothers warned me about your humor. 1318 01:16:29.079 --> 01:16:31.479 Just so you know, I think you're a bit mean 1319 01:16:31.560 --> 01:16:35.239 for making me cry. Then she paused and smiled. But 1320 01:16:35.359 --> 01:16:38.359 I also think you're really sweet for making me cry 1321 01:16:38.640 --> 01:16:42.279 happy tears. I smiled back. I would prefer you not 1322 01:16:42.479 --> 01:16:45.520 say those things about me when we're around others. She 1323 01:16:46.000 --> 01:16:49.600 just grinned. Three months later, at her grand opening, she 1324 01:16:49.720 --> 01:16:53.920 spoke briefly about how much support she had received, especially 1325 01:16:54.000 --> 01:16:57.800 from her sweetheart. My grandmothers looked like they were trying 1326 01:16:57.880 --> 01:17:00.760 to hold in

laughter. We spent a lot of time 1327 01:17:00.800 --> 01:17:04.079 together getting the business started. I helped when I could, 1328 01:17:04.319 --> 01:17:07.600 but it was her project, so I let her lead Slowly. 1329 01:17:07.920 --> 01:17:10.840 She began calling me every day for my opinion on 1330 01:17:10.960 --> 01:17:14.880 different business matters. We started having working lunches and a 1331 01:17:14.920 --> 01:17:18.680 few dinners. She would sometimes touch my arm or hold 1332 01:17:18.680 --> 01:17:21.760 my hand when we walked. I saw her true feelings. 1333 01:17:21.800 --> 01:17:24.640 When we bumped into someone we both knew. We had 1334 01:17:24.680 --> 01:17:27.439 parted on good terms, and when she saw me at 1335 01:17:27.439 --> 01:17:31.039 the restaurant, she came over to say hello. Sandy went 1336 01:17:31.079 --> 01:17:34.199 to the restroom, and when she came back, we were chatting. 1337 01:17:34.439 --> 01:17:37.960 Sandra held onto my arm tightly as I introduced her. 1338 01:17:38.279 --> 01:17:42.359 The other girl smiled, waved, and walked away. I noticed 1339 01:17:42.439 --> 01:17:47.000 Sandra seemed upset. What's wrong? I suddenly don't feel hungry. 1340 01:17:47.239 --> 01:17:51.439 Please take me home? No what I said? No, I'm 1341 01:17:51.479 --> 01:17:54.199 not sure why you feel this way, but I don't 1342 01:17:54.319 --> 01:17:57.119 like it. You're an adult, or at least I hope 1343 01:17:57.199 --> 01:18:00.119 you are. I used to be close to April, but 1344 01:18:00.199 --> 01:18:03.159 it wasn't meant to be, so we decided just to 1345 01:18:03.199 --> 01:18:06.520 be friends. She told me she found someone she wants 1346 01:18:06.600 --> 01:18:09.800 to marry in six months. I expect to get an 1347 01:18:09.840 --> 01:18:13.159 invitation soon. If you want to leave, I can call 1348 01:18:13.199 --> 01:18:16.039 you and you bur just know if you leave, we 1349 01:18:16.079 --> 01:18:19.640 won't share any more meals together. Our talks will only 1350 01:18:19.720 --> 01:18:24.000 be about the restaurant. I watched her face show different feelings. 1351 01:18:24.319 --> 01:18:28.039 Then she looked serious. Steve, can I ask you something? 1352 01:18:28.399 --> 01:18:31.479 Do you have a problem with couples of different races? 1353 01:18:31.800 --> 01:18:35.000 Not at all. My second wife was from Costa Rica 1354 01:18:35.079 --> 01:18:37.880 and that never bothered me. I care more about the 1355 01:18:37.920 --> 01:18:41.079 person than their race. Have you ever dated someone who 1356 01:18:41.199 --> 01:18:45.239 was black? Actually? Yes, two people. Why did you stop 1357 01:18:45.279 --> 01:18:48.680 seeing them? One was more interested in my job than 1358 01:18:48.720 --> 01:18:51.720 in me. I figured that out after a few dates 1359 01:18:51.760 --> 01:18:55.279 when she started talking about moving in together. It didn't 1360 01:18:55.399 --> 01:18:59.119 end on good terms, and the other one, to be honest, 1361 01:18:59.319 --> 01:19:02.319 we just did click. She was a lawyer I met 1362 01:19:02.359 --> 01:19:05.760 through Miss Chen. She was smart and charming, but there 1363 01:19:05.880 --> 01:19:09.760 wasn't any chemistry between us. After the fifth date, it 1364 01:19:09.880 --> 01:19:13.000 was clear we wouldn't move forward, though we became good 1365 01:19:13.079 --> 01:19:17.479 friends later. Why are you curious? I asked her. She said, 1366 01:19:17.760 --> 01:19:21.479 don't play games. I've given you enough hints, but you 1367 01:19:21.560 --> 01:19:25.720 haven't acted on them. My frustration comes from that. If 1368 01:19:25.720 --> 01:19:29.039 you want to keep things just business, I can accept that, 1369 01:19:29.520 --> 01:19:32.920 even though I'd rather not. There's a common saying in 1370 01:19:33.079 --> 01:19:36.680 business don't mix work with personal feelings. But if I 1371 01:19:36.760 --> 01:19:40.520 had always followed rules, I wouldn't be where I am now. 1372 01:19:40.800 --> 01:19:43.279 So yes, I would like to see if we can 1373 01:19:43.279 --> 01:19:46.920 connect in a different way. One promise, if either of 1374 01:19:47.039 --> 01:19:51.079 us feels it's not working, we'll end things respectfully. Does 1375 01:19:51.119 --> 01:19:53.800 that work for you? She thought for a moment and 1376 01:19:53.880 --> 01:19:57.560 then smiled. Deal. You can take me out on Saturday. 1377 01:19:57.840 --> 01:20:00.359 It might be our last Saturday for a while while, 1378 01:20:00.520 --> 01:20:04.079 since the restaurant will be opening soon. Just a head's up. 1379 01:20:04.319 --> 01:20:08.000 The restaurant will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so 1380 01:20:08.199 --> 01:20:11.039 you may need to adjust your plans. And so we 1381 01:20:11.199 --> 01:20:14.960 started dating. Almost everyone around me had I told you 1382 01:20:15.079 --> 01:20:19.600 so opinion about our relationship. The grandmothers were very happy, 1383 01:20:19.760 --> 01:20:23.600 including my biological grandmother. I once asked her what she 1384 01:20:23.760 --> 01:20:27.439 thought about Sandy's race. No problem at all, You too, 1385 01:20:27.520 --> 01:20:30.319 clearly get along well, and I can see you're happy 1386 01:20:30.319 --> 01:20:32.880 air than you've been in a long time. The people 1387 01:20:32.920 --> 01:20:36.279 you associate with are varied, so they shouldn't mind if 1388 01:20:36.319 --> 01:20:39.399 things get serious. Just keep an eye on some of 1389 01:20:39.479 --> 01:20:42.960 your uncle's On your mother's side, family gatherings might be 1390 01:20:43.079 --> 01:20:46.239 a bit awkward. My father had passed away when I 1391 01:20:46.399 --> 01:20:49.880 was a teenager, and my mother remarried soon after. I 1392 01:20:50.039 --> 01:20:52.399 moved out to be with the man she was seeing. 1393 01:20:52.720 --> 01:20:55.640 I never felt close to him, and he didn't seem 1394 01:20:55.720 --> 01:20:58.800 to like me much

either, so we kept our distance. 1395 01:20:59.079 --> 01:21:01.960 He often made fun of me in front of the family, 1396 01:21:02.319 --> 01:21:05.560 especially after I took up farming. He worked as a 1397 01:21:05.640 --> 01:21:09.000 manager at a small factory and looked down on my job. 1398 01:21:09.279 --> 01:21:12.119 A lot of our issues came from my feelings about 1399 01:21:12.119 --> 01:21:15.199 his choices, but mainly it was about his wish for 1400 01:21:15.239 --> 01:21:17.680 me to sell my land to him for a low price. 1401 01:21:18.079 --> 01:21:21.039 He wanted to turn it into an industrial park because 1402 01:21:21.079 --> 01:21:24.920 he had interested buyers. Even though the land was valuable, 1403 01:21:25.079 --> 01:21:27.680 it meant a lot to me and my family. It 1404 01:21:27.760 --> 01:21:30.359 had been in our family since one thousand, eight hundred 1405 01:21:30.439 --> 01:21:34.720 forty six, passed down through generations until only forty acres 1406 01:21:34.760 --> 01:21:37.720 were left. I have great memories of working on the 1407 01:21:37.800 --> 01:21:41.439 farm with my grandfather. I spent almost every week and 1408 01:21:41.560 --> 01:21:44.239 there during the busy season, and stayed with him for 1409 01:21:44.319 --> 01:21:47.720 the summers. My grandfather had planned for my father to 1410 01:21:47.800 --> 01:21:51.039 have the land, but after my father's sudden passing, it 1411 01:21:51.119 --> 01:21:54.960 was left to me. Luckily, my grandfather had a good lawyer, 1412 01:21:55.039 --> 01:21:58.079 and I went to him when my mom's husband began 1413 01:21:58.279 --> 01:22:02.239 mentioning the idea of taking my land. The lawyer helped 1414 01:22:02.239 --> 01:22:05.680 classify the farm as a historic properby, which made it 1415 01:22:05.760 --> 01:22:08.920 hard to develop as long as the land was being used. 1416 01:22:09.279 --> 01:22:11.920 So when I had to stop farming, I rented it 1417 01:22:11.960 --> 01:22:14.039 to my cousin with the promise that he would keep 1418 01:22:14.079 --> 01:22:16.640 the farm going. To make it sweeter for him, I 1419 01:22:16.720 --> 01:22:20.399 agreed to buy everything he grew from my stores. Once 1420 01:22:20.439 --> 01:22:23.720 I got started, he was paid about fifteen percent more 1421 01:22:23.760 --> 01:22:26.520 than he could get elsewhere, and he was very happy 1422 01:22:26.560 --> 01:22:30.119 with the deal. Eventually he rented another fifty acres to 1423 01:22:30.239 --> 01:22:33.560 keep up with demand. Mom's husband didn't do well with 1424 01:22:33.680 --> 01:22:37.399 the deal, falling short on his promises and agreements. There 1425 01:22:37.520 --> 01:22:40.600 was no love between us, and my mother hardly talked 1426 01:22:40.640 --> 01:22:43.239 to me. They would not have liked knowing I was 1427 01:22:43.359 --> 01:22:46.159 dating a woman of color. I was sure the news 1428 01:22:46.159 --> 01:22:49.279 would spread and I might face mockery, but I also 1429 01:22:49.359 --> 01:22:51.760 knew they were smart enough not to let me hear it. 1430 01:22:52.079 --> 01:22:55.840 One cousin disrespected Mickey's mom, and though his words turned 1431 01:22:55.880 --> 01:22:58.520 out to be true, it led to a tough situation 1432 01:22:58.720 --> 01:23:01.359 for him. I knew how to handle it, and when 1433 01:23:01.399 --> 01:23:05.039 he threw the first punch, I defended myself. He still 1434 01:23:05.079 --> 01:23:08.600 tried to sue me for unnecessary violence, claiming I should 1435 01:23:08.600 --> 01:23:11.560 have stopped when he was down. My lawyer pushed back 1436 01:23:11.640 --> 01:23:14.760 and sued my cousin for emotional distress, and we had 1437 01:23:14.800 --> 01:23:19.239 a stronger case. Eventually, my cousin agreed to drop everything 1438 01:23:19.359 --> 01:23:21.960 if I did the same. I made him say sorry 1439 01:23:22.159 --> 01:23:25.199 on Facebook as part of the agreement. It was clear 1440 01:23:25.279 --> 01:23:27.920 that was hard for him, but he did it. It 1441 01:23:28.000 --> 01:23:31.399 took four months for us to grow closer. The restaurant 1442 01:23:31.520 --> 01:23:36.159 opened with great reviews. Sole Food International was a big success. 1443 01:23:36.479 --> 01:23:40.319 The food was great, the atmosphere friendly, and Sandy made 1444 01:23:40.359 --> 01:23:43.840 sure to thank everyone who came in, building connections everywhere. 1445 01:23:44.000 --> 01:23:46.439 The stress started to get to her, so I thought 1446 01:23:46.520 --> 01:23:50.319 we needed a break. She came in tired one Sunday afternoon. 1447 01:23:50.640 --> 01:23:53.399 The place was open for a lunch buffet and closed 1448 01:23:53.399 --> 01:23:57.199 at four, giving her extra time to relax. I showed 1449 01:23:57.239 --> 01:23:59.560 her the bathroom, where I had set up a bubble 1450 01:23:59.560 --> 01:24:04.359 bathwink candles and soft music. Relax, you deserve it, I said. 1451 01:24:04.800 --> 01:24:08.079 She was surprised by my effort, but soon agreed that 1452 01:24:08.199 --> 01:24:11.840 it would be nice. She worried about getting her clothes wet, 1453 01:24:12.119 --> 01:24:15.079 but I just smiled and promised we would find something 1454 01:24:15.159 --> 01:24:18.239 comfortable for her. I closed the door, and soon I 1455 01:24:18.319 --> 01:24:21.600 could hear her singing along to the music. Her assistant 1456 01:24:21.640 --> 01:24:24.760 manager was a great cook herself, and I had asked 1457 01:24:24.760 --> 01:24:27.600 her to get Sandy's sizes and do a bit of shopping. 1458 01:24:27.880 --> 01:24:31.279 A trip to a local store resulted in some lovely dresses, 1459 01:24:31.479 --> 01:24:34.600 a few comfy outfits, and some nice pieces that were 1460 01:24:34.600 --> 01:24:38.159 both useful and stylish. There was also a nice silk 1461 01:24:38.239 --> 01:24:41.840 robe to complete the set. I bought her three nice dresses, 1462 01:24:42.159 --> 01:24:45.079 two sun dresses,

and a smart outfit for going out. 1463 01:24:45.359 --> 01:24:48.880 There were a couple of pairs of shorts, some casual tops, 1464 01:24:48.960 --> 01:24:52.319 two pairs of jeans, new walking shoes, and two pairs 1465 01:24:52.319 --> 01:24:55.199 of high heels, one with a short heel and one 1466 01:24:55.199 --> 01:24:58.600 with a taller heel. I had nearly everything packed into 1467 01:24:58.600 --> 01:25:02.479 two suitcases. After about forty five minutes, I went to 1468 01:25:02.600 --> 01:25:05.520 check on her. She had fallen asleep and I could 1469 01:25:05.520 --> 01:25:08.720 hear her soft snores through the door. I smiled as 1470 01:25:08.720 --> 01:25:11.880 I tapped on the door. Honey, wake up. I have 1471 01:25:12.079 --> 01:25:14.399 something for you to wear and it will be right 1472 01:25:14.479 --> 01:25:17.560 outside the door. Come to the living room when you're ready. 1473 01:25:17.800 --> 01:25:20.359 I had to call her a few times until I 1474 01:25:20.600 --> 01:25:23.359 was sure she was awake. I heard the door open 1475 01:25:23.520 --> 01:25:26.479 as I walked back into the living room. I dim 1476 01:25:26.640 --> 01:25:29.600 the lights and poured her a glass of her favorite drink, 1477 01:25:30.039 --> 01:25:33.560 just in case she wanted it. Five minutes later, she 1478 01:25:33.920 --> 01:25:37.600 entered the room, the rope loosely tied around her, showing 1479 01:25:37.720 --> 01:25:41.920 glimpses of her dress. The pale lavender looked beautiful against 1480 01:25:41.920 --> 01:25:45.359 her skin. Just thinking of her made me smile. She 1481 01:25:45.520 --> 01:25:48.399 had a shy smile, which was special since we had 1482 01:25:48.479 --> 01:25:52.039 never spent the night together before. She greeted me warmly 1483 01:25:52.119 --> 01:25:56.079 and I admired her outfit. You have great taste, I said. 1484 01:25:56.520 --> 01:25:59.800 Don't thank me, you should give your assistant a raise. 1485 01:26:00.239 --> 01:26:03.439 She helped me pick it out. Her smile was bright. 1486 01:26:03.760 --> 01:26:06.880 What else did she help with? All in good time? 1487 01:26:07.199 --> 01:26:10.439 My dear, you're staying with me tonight. We might have 1488 01:26:10.560 --> 01:26:13.680 some fun, but you look tired, and we have an 1489 01:26:13.680 --> 01:26:17.439 early start tomorrow. Why I have two days off so 1490 01:26:17.560 --> 01:26:21.159 we can sleep in. No, we can't. We have places 1491 01:26:21.199 --> 01:26:24.159 to be, and that's all I can say, So no 1492 01:26:24.359 --> 01:26:28.079 more questions. It's time for bed. I took her hand 1493 01:26:28.159 --> 01:26:31.079 and led her to the bedroom, pulling down the covers 1494 01:26:31.119 --> 01:26:34.840 to tuck her in. Aren't you coming to bed, she asked. 1495 01:26:35.119 --> 01:26:37.920 I'll be there in a minute. I want to freshen 1496 01:26:38.079 --> 01:26:41.319 up first. That made her smile. I took a quick 1497 01:26:41.359 --> 01:26:44.600 shower and came out, ready to relax. I lay down 1498 01:26:44.680 --> 01:26:48.319 beside her, settling into her warmth. I woke up to 1499 01:26:48.399 --> 01:26:51.479 the sound of the alarm. She was nestled against me, 1500 01:26:51.720 --> 01:26:55.600 her head gently resting on my chest. It felt wonderful 1501 01:26:55.720 --> 01:26:58.880 to be close to her. I kissed her gently, savoring 1502 01:26:58.960 --> 01:27:02.399 the moment. She woke up suddenly, but then relaxed and 1503 01:27:02.520 --> 01:27:05.319 moved closer. Are you ready to pick up where we 1504 01:27:05.439 --> 01:27:09.159 left off last night? I think I caught her by surprise, 1505 01:27:09.520 --> 01:27:13.319 of course, but we can't waste time. We need to 1506 01:27:13.359 --> 01:27:16.600 take a shower and get dressed. We have two hours 1507 01:27:16.640 --> 01:27:19.399 to reach the airport, and you know how long it 1508 01:27:19.479 --> 01:27:23.079 takes to board a plane airport. I'm not going anywhere 1509 01:27:23.199 --> 01:27:26.800 until you explain what's happening. We're going on a vacation. 1510 01:27:27.199 --> 01:27:30.319 I haven't taken one in years, and you could use 1511 01:27:30.359 --> 01:27:33.600 a brake too. We're heading to Billize for three days 1512 01:27:33.640 --> 01:27:37.479 of sun, sand and relaxation, so let's get moving. She 1513 01:27:37.640 --> 01:27:40.640 looked a bit upset. Why do you think I'll just 1514 01:27:40.800 --> 01:27:44.520 drop everything and go with you because you love surprises, 1515 01:27:44.840 --> 01:27:47.359 and I know you love me. I can see it 1516 01:27:47.680 --> 01:27:50.479 and you know it too. And just so you know, 1517 01:27:50.840 --> 01:27:54.000 I love you too. So get up and get ready, 1518 01:27:54.319 --> 01:27:57.359 or I might just start my shower without you. She 1519 01:27:57.520 --> 01:28:00.479 looked surprised. I we I really do. I love you 1520 01:28:00.760 --> 01:28:03.560 and I want to go on vacation. Do we have 1521 01:28:03.720 --> 01:28:07.279 time to pack? Already taken care of. The two green 1522 01:28:07.399 --> 01:28:10.680 suit tases are ready for you. Pick something to wear 1523 01:28:10.760 --> 01:28:14.039 while I start the shower. I heard her little squeals 1524 01:28:14.079 --> 01:28:17.479 of happiness as I stepped into the shower. Just thirtyas 1525 01:28:17.560 --> 01:28:22.039 later she joined me, excitement glowing on her face. Sandy 1526 01:28:22.279 --> 01:28:25.000 was trying to talk and express her feelings at the 1527 01:28:25.039 --> 01:28:29.239 same time, which wasn't going smoothly. I hugged her warmly 1528 01:28:29.319 --> 01:28:33.279 to pause her. Let's shower now we can enjoy chatting later. 1529 01:28:33.520 --> 01:28:36.279 With that, we shared a light hearted moment in the 1530 01:28:36.359 --> 01:28:39.880 shower before she stepped out, letting me finish up. When 1531 01:28:39.920 --> 01:28:42.479 I went back to the bedroom, I saw that she 1532 01:28:42.560 -->

01:28:45.359 had laid out a beautiful green dress and some new 1533 01:28:45.399 --> 01:28:48.800 clothes that caught my eye. She turned and smiled at me, 1534 01:28:49.159 --> 01:28:52.479 asking do you like it? I could model for you later. 1535 01:28:52.720 --> 01:28:55.319 I can wear the green dress tonight if that works 1536 01:28:55.359 --> 01:28:58.720 for you. I think that dress will look fantastic on you, 1537 01:28:59.079 --> 01:29:03.279 I replied, I've always loved seeing you in stylish outfits. 1538 01:29:03.560 --> 01:29:07.479 In that case, I'll find some accessories to go with it. Now, 1539 01:29:07.520 --> 01:29:10.840 get dressed. It was an incredible time for me. She 1540 01:29:11.119 --> 01:29:13.960 was beautiful and full of life, and she was with me. 1541 01:29:14.319 --> 01:29:17.439 We spent a lot of time relaxing, but we also 1542 01:29:17.640 --> 01:29:21.479 enjoyed the beach a few times. She wore a stunning 1543 01:29:21.520 --> 01:29:25.239 swimsuit that caught ever one's attention. I noticed how many 1544 01:29:25.319 --> 01:29:28.600 people admired her, but it didn't bother me. I was 1545 01:29:28.680 --> 01:29:32.680 proud of her and confident in our relationship. We went dancing, 1546 01:29:32.760 --> 01:29:35.159 and while I was good on the dance floor, she 1547 01:29:35.359 --> 01:29:38.439 had so much energy. We had lunch with another couple 1548 01:29:38.520 --> 01:29:41.279 from the resort, and they spent the evening with us. 1549 01:29:41.680 --> 01:29:45.039 The girls danced together, having a great time while the 1550 01:29:45.079 --> 01:29:48.680 guys watched. Eventually they came over to our table and 1551 01:29:48.800 --> 01:29:51.359 we all shared some laughs as we headed back to 1552 01:29:51.439 --> 01:29:55.479 our rooms afterward. She laughed on the plain the next day, 1553 01:29:55.680 --> 01:29:59.079 remembering all the fun we had. I have no interest 1554 01:29:59.119 --> 01:30:02.560 in dating anyone one, but you, I said, Pam feels 1555 01:30:02.640 --> 01:30:05.840 the same way. Honestly, it was fun to see the 1556 01:30:05.880 --> 01:30:08.840 girls having a good time, but we really wanted to 1557 01:30:08.880 --> 01:30:12.439 boost our friend's spirits. I think we did pretty well, 1558 01:30:12.680 --> 01:30:16.520 don't you. I'm too tired to talk, she smiled, looking 1559 01:30:16.600 --> 01:30:20.479 worn out but happy. Need a nap, she said, softly, 1560 01:30:20.720 --> 01:30:23.720 curling up next to me. She came to stay at 1561 01:30:23.720 --> 01:30:27.199 my condo and never left. A month later, she gave 1562 01:30:27.279 --> 01:30:31.119 up her apartment. Five months after that, I surprised her 1563 01:30:31.159 --> 01:30:34.439 with a diamond ring. I walked into a restaurant and 1564 01:30:34.560 --> 01:30:37.319 asked to see the chef. She thought I was a 1565 01:30:37.399 --> 01:30:40.479 customer with a complaint, but then she saw me kneeling 1566 01:30:40.600 --> 01:30:44.359 holding an open box. The diamond sparkled nicely in the 1567 01:30:44.439 --> 01:30:48.800 candle light. Sandy, love of my life. Will That's as 1568 01:30:48.800 --> 01:30:51.840 far as I got before she hugged me tightly and 1569 01:30:51.960 --> 01:30:55.039 we both fell to the floor. The box slipped from 1570 01:30:55.039 --> 01:30:58.359 my hand and rolled under a table. We quickly dropped 1571 01:30:58.399 --> 01:31:00.600 to our hands and knees to fire mind it while 1572 01:31:00.640 --> 01:31:04.560 she shouted yes over and over. The whole restaurant cheered. 1573 01:31:04.600 --> 01:31:07.399 When she found the box and slipped the ring onto 1574 01:31:07.439 --> 01:31:10.840 her finger. That marked the start of a joyful celebration 1575 01:31:11.159 --> 01:31:14.199 as she proudly showed off the ring to everone. My 1576 01:31:14.399 --> 01:31:17.640 family was thrilled for me. They had seen how sad 1577 01:31:17.680 --> 01:31:22.039 I was after my last relationship. My grandmothers quickly gathered 1578 01:31:22.079 --> 01:31:26.079 and took Sandy aside to chat about wedding plans. Sandy's 1579 01:31:26.119 --> 01:31:28.920 first wedding was a simple one, and she had once 1580 01:31:28.960 --> 01:31:32.640 shared with Grandma Greeley how she wished for a grand celebration. 1581 01:31:33.039 --> 01:31:35.760 They promised to cover the costs, and all I had 1582 01:31:35.800 --> 01:31:37.960 to do was show up when they said, I was 1583 01:31:38.039 --> 01:31:41.439 perfectly fine with that. Miss Chen had a change in 1584 01:31:41.479 --> 01:31:44.000 her role when she told me that she felt too 1585 01:31:44.119 --> 01:31:47.239 young to be a grandmother. Well, then I need a 1586 01:31:47.359 --> 01:31:51.079 new mom. My old one isn't working out, I joked. 1587 01:31:51.359 --> 01:31:54.199 She and her husband didn't have children of their own. 1588 01:31:54.520 --> 01:31:57.439 I never asked why, but she was so touched by 1589 01:31:57.479 --> 01:32:00.039 my words that she cried in my arms, and it 1590 01:31:59.840 --> 01:32:02.840 was the first time I'd ever seen her cry. From 1591 01:32:02.840 --> 01:32:06.520 that moment, she became a wonderful presence in Mickey's life, 1592 01:32:06.640 --> 01:32:09.319 ager to spend time with him every week, and defy 1593 01:32:09.399 --> 01:32:13.199 allowed it. Since Sandy's mother had passed away, Miss Chen 1594 01:32:13.319 --> 01:32:16.479 stepped into a loving role for her. There were countless 1595 01:32:16.479 --> 01:32:20.920 talks about flowers, colors, invitations, and venues until I felt 1596 01:32:20.920 --> 01:32:25.199 a bit overwhelmed by all the options. Eventually, they decided 1597 01:32:25.239 --> 01:32:28.680 to keep me out of most decisions. My only task 1598 01:32:28.880 --> 01:32:31.439 was to make sure my tuxedo fit and to show 1599 01:32:31.560 --> 01:32:36.680 up on time. Micky was my best man. Jose Dan, Miguel, Michael, 1600 01:32:36.800 --> 01:32:40.399 and my cousin Billy

were my groomsmen. Sandy chose two 1601 01:32:40.399 --> 01:32:44.600 college friends her restaurant assistant Connie and Alice, to be 1602 01:32:44.720 --> 01:32:47.720 part of her side. Her sister was her maid of honor, 1603 01:32:47.960 --> 01:32:50.600 and I met her for the first time at the rehearsal. 1604 01:32:50.840 --> 01:32:54.000 We didn't dislike each other, but we didn't have much 1605 01:32:54.039 --> 01:32:57.720 in common. She was unhappy about Sandy marrying someone from 1606 01:32:57.760 --> 01:33:01.119 a different background, and I could sense her disapproval. She 1607 01:33:01.359 --> 01:33:05.760 was perhaps the first truly prejudiced person I had ever met. Thankfully, 1608 01:33:06.039 --> 01:33:08.840 she lived on the other coasts, so we wouldn't see 1609 01:33:08.880 --> 01:33:12.159 each other often. I learned that she and Sandy had 1610 01:33:12.159 --> 01:33:15.319 a disagreement about it. Sandy told her that if she 1611 01:33:15.399 --> 01:33:18.079 didn't calm down, she would have to go back to 1612 01:33:18.159 --> 01:33:22.560 California before the wedding. Finally, on a sunny afternoon. In June, 1613 01:33:22.880 --> 01:33:26.039 we became husband and wife. We got married at a 1614 01:33:26.039 --> 01:33:29.319 Baptist church we had started attending a couple of months 1615 01:33:29.359 --> 01:33:32.119 before the wedding. Sandy had been going there for a 1616 01:33:32.159 --> 01:33:35.439 few months before we got closer, and she had invited 1617 01:33:35.479 --> 01:33:38.239 me to join her. I liked the people, and most 1618 01:33:38.520 --> 01:33:41.920 liked me too. The preacher appreciated my honesty when I 1619 01:33:42.039 --> 01:33:44.720 jokingly said that if he ever paid for food at 1620 01:33:44.720 --> 01:33:48.199 his fundraisers again, I would never forgive him. I even 1621 01:33:48.279 --> 01:33:51.800 helped out when I could. Over the years, I've probably 1622 01:33:51.840 --> 01:33:56.079 cooked thousands of hot dogs and hamburgers, plus breakfasts. The 1623 01:33:56.199 --> 01:33:59.359 church was full, with people even standing in the back. 1624 01:33:59.720 --> 01:34:02.960 Most were from the church, but my extended family was 1625 01:34:03.039 --> 01:34:06.520 also there. The one noticeable absence was my mother and 1626 01:34:06.560 --> 01:34:09.760 her side of the family. I invited her, but that 1627 01:34:10.000 --> 01:34:13.520 was her choice. Sandy's father flew in from France to 1628 01:34:13.560 --> 01:34:16.800 give her away. He seemed very proud of his daughter 1629 01:34:16.920 --> 01:34:20.279 and liked me. Miss Chen stood close to Sandy while 1630 01:34:20.319 --> 01:34:23.600 her husband smiled proudly as she introduced them to her 1631 01:34:23.640 --> 01:34:27.119 family as my parents. Her dress was beautiful and she 1632 01:34:27.159 --> 01:34:30.119 seemed to glide down the aisle. I hardly took a 1633 01:34:30.159 --> 01:34:33.520 breath during the ceremony, but I remember lifting her veil 1634 01:34:33.640 --> 01:34:37.359 for our embrace. Tears were streaming down her cheeks, but 1635 01:34:37.439 --> 01:34:40.319 she had the biggest smile I had ever seen. I 1636 01:34:40.399 --> 01:34:43.880 don't remember much about the reception, but it was still happening. 1637 01:34:43.920 --> 01:34:46.560 When we got on the plain for our honeymoon. We 1638 01:34:46.560 --> 01:34:49.800 were heading to France, not Paris, but Nice, and then 1639 01:34:49.840 --> 01:34:53.520 on to Monico. The honeymoon turned into a delicious adventure 1640 01:34:53.560 --> 01:34:57.039 as Sandy took me from restaurant to restaurant. We tried 1641 01:34:57.079 --> 01:34:59.720 dishes I had never tasted before, and some that were 1642 01:34:59.760 --> 01:35:02.920 not to my liking. I eventually learned to say no 1643 01:35:03.199 --> 01:35:05.920 when something didn't look good to me. It should have 1644 01:35:06.000 --> 01:35:09.039 bothered me, but seeing her so happy made it hard 1645 01:35:09.079 --> 01:35:12.359 to be upset. The evenings and mornings together made up 1646 01:35:12.399 --> 01:35:15.600 for it as we enjoyed our time. We were supposed 1647 01:35:15.680 --> 01:35:18.880 to stay in Monaco for five days, but we left 1648 01:35:18.920 --> 01:35:22.560 after two because we didn't feel comfortable there. We visited 1649 01:35:22.600 --> 01:35:26.199 a few casinos because it was Monaco. Sandy won a 1650 01:35:26.239 --> 01:35:29.560 few thousand euros at a game we didn't really understand, 1651 01:35:29.880 --> 01:35:33.279 while I lost almost a thousand at Blacktech thinking I 1652 01:35:33.479 --> 01:35:36.359 understood the rules. The rest of our time was spent 1653 01:35:36.479 --> 01:35:40.760 exploring the Italian coast, aiding at small diners and beestros 1654 01:35:40.800 --> 01:35:43.960 that were off the main tourist path. We both agreed 1655 01:35:44.000 --> 01:35:47.560 that our next vacation should be about exploring the countryside 1656 01:35:47.600 --> 01:35:50.800 and mountains to see what treasures we could find there. 1657 01:35:51.119 --> 01:35:54.159 Most of the beaches were open, but it took Sandy 1658 01:35:54.319 --> 01:35:57.399 until the last two days to feel relaxed enough to 1659 01:35:57.560 --> 01:36:01.199 enjoy them fully. She mentioned feeling a bit shy, but 1660 01:36:01.359 --> 01:36:04.880 she seemed to like the atmosphere. I thought one Spanish 1661 01:36:04.920 --> 01:36:07.920 man was going to face some good old fashioned Southern 1662 01:36:07.920 --> 01:36:11.760 confrontation until Sandy called him out for his behavior. By 1663 01:36:11.800 --> 01:36:15.560 then I was fluent enough to understand everything. We were 1664 01:36:15.640 --> 01:36:18.560 at a beach where clothing was optional, and he felt 1665 01:36:18.560 --> 01:36:21.680 a bit uncomfortable. Before I could stop her, she made 1666 01:36:21.720 --> 01:36:24.760 a bold remark that caught the attention of others near by, 1667

01:36:25.000 --> 01:36:28.359 and they laughed as he hurried away, embarrassed. It took 1668 01:36:28.399 --> 01:36:30.840 me some time to persuade her to let me get 1669 01:36:30.920 --> 01:36:34.399 dressed again. Sandy was in a cheerful mood, and we 1670 01:36:34.439 --> 01:36:37.640 walked along the beach to our hotel before she playfully 1671 01:36:37.680 --> 01:36:41.119 asked to put her clothes back on. We never repeated 1672 01:36:41.199 --> 01:36:44.079 that moment, but it became a funny story when we 1673 01:36:44.119 --> 01:36:47.960 got home. When we returned home, life was peaceful. She 1674 01:36:48.159 --> 01:36:51.319 continued to run her restaurant while I explored a new 1675 01:36:51.359 --> 01:36:55.000 location across the state line. My schedule was much more 1676 01:36:55.039 --> 01:36:58.359 flexible than hers, so I made sure we spent time 1677 01:36:58.399 --> 01:37:03.000 together when we weren't work working. As our first anniversary approached, 1678 01:37:03.319 --> 01:37:06.399 I asked her if there was anything special she wanted. 1679 01:37:06.800 --> 01:37:09.279 She then took four days off and we rented a 1680 01:37:09.279 --> 01:37:12.520 cabin in the mountains. We stalked up on supplies and 1681 01:37:12.640 --> 01:37:16.479 rarely left the place. We've enjoyed hiking and even had 1682 01:37:16.479 --> 01:37:19.920 a day of skiing. Our evenings were filled with warmth 1683 01:37:19.960 --> 01:37:23.720 and laughter. On the last night, cuddled under blankets, we 1684 01:37:23.800 --> 01:37:26.920 watched the fire Crackle. I was playing with her hand 1685 01:37:27.039 --> 01:37:29.920 when she sighed and took my hand in hers. I've 1686 01:37:29.960 --> 01:37:32.560 thought a lot about what I'm about to ask you. 1687 01:37:32.920 --> 01:37:35.680 If you want to give me something, this is what 1688 01:37:35.800 --> 01:37:39.359 I desire. I'm thirty one, your thirty five, and I 1689 01:37:39.479 --> 01:37:42.960 feel time is moving on. I've always wanted to be 1690 01:37:43.119 --> 01:37:46.880 a mother, even more than being successful in business. If 1691 01:37:46.920 --> 01:37:50.119 you truly mean what you say about granting my wishes. 1692 01:37:50.439 --> 01:37:52.920 This is it? Will you start a family with me? 1693 01:37:53.319 --> 01:37:55.920 She didn't know it, but she had touched upon my 1694 01:37:56.039 --> 01:37:59.560 own deepest dream. I loved Mickey, but I came into 1695 01:37:59.600 --> 01:38:02.600 his life a bit late, missing out on many early 1696 01:38:02.720 --> 01:38:06.880 experiences of parenthood. I wanted to share those moments more 1697 01:38:06.920 --> 01:38:11.000 than any achievement I could obtain. Sandy, sensing my silence 1698 01:38:11.039 --> 01:38:14.399 as hesitation, tried to change the subject. I placed my 1699 01:38:14.479 --> 01:38:18.239 fingers lightly on her lips as say, change, don't ruin 1700 01:38:18.319 --> 01:38:22.399 the moment. You've just made me incredibly happy. I

think 1701 01:38:22.479 --> 01:38:26.239 it's time to take practical steps toward this dream. Sandy 1702 01:38:26.359 --> 01:38:32.319 lasts softly, practical steps absolutely. The sooner we start this journey, 1703 01:38:32.439 --> 01:38:35.600 the better. I don't want to be chasing after little 1704 01:38:35.600 --> 01:38:38.680 ones when I'm older. The warmth of that moment is 1705 01:38:38.720 --> 01:38:42.640 something I will always treasure. There was love, connection and 1706 01:38:42.720 --> 01:38:46.039 a shared vision for the future. The only time you'll 1707 01:38:46.039 --> 01:38:49.439 need help walking is tomorrow. After I'm done with you. 1708 01:38:49.800 --> 01:38:52.960 We'll both be a bit worn out. Being with Sandy 1709 01:38:53.039 --> 01:38:57.000 always brought joy, but that night felt particularly special. A 1710 01:38:57.039 --> 01:39:00.159 thought crossed my mind as we shared a moment, a 1711 01:39:00.199 --> 01:39:04.359 powerful feeling of connection. Five months later, I came home 1712 01:39:04.439 --> 01:39:07.479 to find her sitting at the kitchen table, tears in 1713 01:39:07.560 --> 01:39:12.000 her eyes. Given Sandy's emotional nature, I wasn't too worried. 1714 01:39:12.319 --> 01:39:16.000 She often cried easily. I sat beside her and wrapped 1715 01:39:16.000 --> 01:39:19.520 my arms around her. What's wrong, dear? She tried to 1716 01:39:19.600 --> 01:39:23.680 find the right words, finally sliding something across the table. 1717 01:39:23.840 --> 01:39:26.840 I picked it up and joy filled my heart. Blue 1718 01:39:26.920 --> 01:39:30.479 lines on a little stick. We were going to be parents. 1719 01:39:30.880 --> 01:39:34.399 I wanted to share my excitement, but instead I found 1720 01:39:34.439 --> 01:39:37.319 myself in tears with her. It took us about an 1721 01:39:37.319 --> 01:39:40.560 hour to calm down enough to talk. This is just 1722 01:39:40.640 --> 01:39:44.760 a home test, love, I'll see the doctor tomorrow to confirm. 1723 01:39:45.079 --> 01:39:48.479 I'll call you right after. She said, no, you won't. 1724 01:39:48.840 --> 01:39:52.279 I'm going with you tomorrow. I placed my hand gently 1725 01:39:52.359 --> 01:39:56.279 on her stomach. She smiled, you can't feel anything yet. 1726 01:39:56.600 --> 01:40:00.760 I test myself every two weeks, so this is very new. 1727 01:40:00.880 --> 01:40:04.319 I'm sure it's a boy. I pretended to be disappointed. 1728 01:40:04.680 --> 01:40:07.359 I was hoping for a girl. If it is a boy, 1729 01:40:07.680 --> 01:40:11.760 can we try again? Her smile widened. Yes, I'd like 1730 01:40:11.880 --> 01:40:14.560 to have one more. I hope we get a set. 1731 01:40:14.960 --> 01:40:17.680 But if they are both boys or both girls, will 1732 01:40:17.680 --> 01:40:20.880 love them just the same. Two is my limit. I 1733 01:40:21.000 --> 01:40:24.760 want a bigger family, but when I'm pregnant again, I'll 1734 01:40:24.800 --> 01:40:28.479 be thirty three, and that feels a

bit late. I agreed, 1735 01:40:28.800 --> 01:40:31.800 knowing how important her health and our future child were, 1736 01:40:32.000 --> 01:40:35.239 two would be perfect for us. The next day, the 1737 01:40:35.319 --> 01:40:39.680 doctor confirmed our good news, set up regular appointments, provided 1738 01:40:39.720 --> 01:40:43.760 information about different birthing options, and sent us on our way. 1739 01:40:44.119 --> 01:40:46.600 I wanted to keep the news private for a bit, 1740 01:40:46.960 --> 01:40:50.279 but Sandy excitedly shared it with everyone at the family 1741 01:40:50.359 --> 01:40:54.039 dinner a week later. My grandmother's parents and many friends 1742 01:40:54.039 --> 01:40:56.880 were emotional when we revealed that if it was a girl, 1743 01:40:57.119 --> 01:41:00.039 she would be named after a special woman. Graham and 1744 01:41:00.199 --> 01:41:04.800 Magreeley nearly fainted surrounded by generations of women who felt 1745 01:41:04.960 --> 01:41:08.159 like family. Sandy shared her wish to honor her late 1746 01:41:08.239 --> 01:41:11.680 mother by giving our daughter the middle name Rose Cellier. 1747 01:41:11.880 --> 01:41:16.079 Rose More sounded lovely. I was busy working on contracts 1748 01:41:16.119 --> 01:41:19.640 for two new stores in different cities. Michael and Miguel 1749 01:41:19.680 --> 01:41:22.640 had taken a step back from their groups, both having 1750 01:41:22.720 --> 01:41:26.600 completed their business management degrees. I had encouraged them through 1751 01:41:26.640 --> 01:41:30.960 family support, but honestly it didn't take much. Miguel was 1752 01:41:31.000 --> 01:41:33.720 in charge in one city, and Michael was in the other. 1753 01:41:34.119 --> 01:41:37.239 I visited both locations twice a week to check in 1754 01:41:37.359 --> 01:41:41.319 and offer suggestions. Miss Chen was their mentor, and together 1755 01:41:41.439 --> 01:41:44.920 we kept them on track. They had traveled with me before, 1756 01:41:45.199 --> 01:41:48.479 understood the business, and were doing well. They held vice 1757 01:41:48.520 --> 01:41:52.279 president positions in my company. They had learned from watching 1758 01:41:52.439 --> 01:41:57.239 us and could communicate professionally. However, when things became stressful, 1759 01:41:57.399 --> 01:42:01.399 they sometimes fell back into old habits. One contractor called 1760 01:42:01.439 --> 01:42:05.239 me very frustrated. I won't deal with these people. They 1761 01:42:05.319 --> 01:42:08.760 don't understand how business works, and I won't be treated 1762 01:42:08.840 --> 01:42:12.039 this way. Let me ask you something. If you found 1763 01:42:12.079 --> 01:42:14.720 out someone was trying to trick you, would you be 1764 01:42:14.800 --> 01:42:17.920 polite or would you take charge? That's what they're trying 1765 01:42:17.960 --> 01:42:21.000 to prevent. We found your deal with the suppliers and 1766 01:42:21.119 --> 01:42:24.600 workers to raise prices by

fifteen percent. I know we 1767 01:42:24.680 --> 01:42:27.159 have a contract, but I will let you leave it 1768 01:42:27.199 --> 01:42:30.279 if you step away now. If you resist, the unions, 1769 01:42:30.399 --> 01:42:34.159 authorities and legal teams will get involved. You're lucky they 1770 01:42:34.199 --> 01:42:37.640 didn't come to you directly. You have one day. One 1771 01:42:37.680 --> 01:42:41.239 of miss Chen's lawyers, who also worked as an accountenant, 1772 01:42:41.560 --> 01:42:45.000 discovered the problem. It was Miguel's project, but when he 1773 01:42:45.000 --> 01:42:48.000 heard about it, he called Michael for help. It did 1774 01:42:48.000 --> 01:42:51.680 not end well for the contractor. He doesn't realize how 1775 01:42:51.680 --> 01:42:54.520 close he came to real trouble. As it is, he 1776 01:42:54.640 --> 01:42:58.640 decided to back out, leaving many workers unhappy and unions 1777 01:42:58.680 --> 01:43:02.159 asking tough questions. Any project he bids on in the 1778 01:43:02.279 --> 01:43:05.840 future will be checked very closely. Those two would make 1779 01:43:05.880 --> 01:43:09.119 a total of five in three states. I was getting 1780 01:43:09.239 --> 01:43:12.159 into deep. I promised my wife that when she was 1781 01:43:12.199 --> 01:43:15.920 four months pregnant, I would pause all expansion plans unless 1782 01:43:15.920 --> 01:43:18.840 my team could manage without me. She said I should 1783 01:43:18.960 --> 01:43:21.880 keep working, and I told her I was working on 1784 01:43:21.960 --> 01:43:24.920 the biggest project of my life, learning how to be 1785 01:43:25.000 --> 01:43:28.640 the best husband and father I could be. Naturally, she 1786 01:43:28.880 --> 01:43:32.640 answered with tears. Miss Chen was upset with me. It 1787 01:43:32.800 --> 01:43:36.600 seemed I wasn't paying enough attention to my businesses. I 1788 01:43:36.720 --> 01:43:40.840 have good people, Mom, I'm just a bit distracted right now. 1789 01:43:41.159 --> 01:43:44.600 Let me tell you something, Honey, women have babies every 1790 01:43:44.680 --> 01:43:47.520 day and the world doesn't stop for it. You have 1791 01:43:47.640 --> 01:43:52.079 a bigger responsibility now. Besides Mickey, you'll have a little one. 1792 01:43:52.399 --> 01:43:55.920 You need to think about their futures. I understand what 1793 01:43:56.000 --> 01:43:58.960 you're saying, and While it's true that women have children 1794 01:43:59.039 --> 01:44:03.079 every day, mine is special. I want to cherish every moment. 1795 01:44:03.359 --> 01:44:06.760 If you don't mind, she smiled. You don't think I'm 1796 01:44:06.800 --> 01:44:10.319 excited for another grandchild. I get a bonus with this 1797 01:44:10.399 --> 01:44:12.720 one because it's a girl, and I'll be there for 1798 01:44:12.800 --> 01:44:16.640 every step of her childhood. Gregory is already thinking about 1799 01:44:16.680 --> 01:44:19.800 making the house safe for kids. We have her bedroom 1800 01:44:19.840 --> 01:44:22.840 ready and are decorating it. It will be done before 1801 01:44:22.920 --> 01:44:27.720 she's even born. Still, I can't stop running my company. Tuesday, 1802 01:44:27.960 --> 01:44:31.600 one zero zero sharp, I arrived on time and spent 1803 01:44:31.760 --> 01:44:35.359 three hours going over numbers. I was amazed at the 1804 01:44:35.399 --> 01:44:38.760 wealth I had built up already, and with two more stores, 1805 01:44:38.920 --> 01:44:42.119 my profit after taxes and salaries would be about one 1806 01:44:42.159 --> 01:44:44.880 million three a year. What are we going to do 1807 01:44:44.960 --> 01:44:48.479 with all that money? Mom and the accountant laughed, You're 1808 01:44:48.520 --> 01:44:52.319 going to keep growing. You haven't gone unnoticed and many 1809 01:44:52.399 --> 01:44:55.319 are copying your business model. But there are plenty of 1810 01:44:55.399 --> 01:44:59.399 opportunities out there with your experience, cities will want to 1811 01:44:59.479 --> 01:45:02.239 work with you more than your rivals. I suggest you 1812 01:45:02.399 --> 01:45:05.359 keep growing in the southeast until you reach the limit, 1813 01:45:05.680 --> 01:45:09.359 then move west. How many stores are we discussing? The 1814 01:45:09.439 --> 01:45:12.960 CPA showed a chart on her computer. You should focus 1815 01:45:13.039 --> 01:45:16.239 on opening two stores a year for the next five years. 1816 01:45:16.520 --> 01:45:19.840 After that, if my plan is right, you can increase 1817 01:45:19.880 --> 01:45:22.760 it to five. In twenty years, you could be one 1818 01:45:22.800 --> 01:45:25.960 of the top three chains in the country. I surprised 1819 01:45:26.000 --> 01:45:28.960 them with my response, what if I don't want to 1820 01:45:29.000 --> 01:45:31.960 be that big, then you might miss a great chance. 1821 01:45:32.359 --> 01:45:35.439 Think about how many people could benefit and how many 1822 01:45:35.520 --> 01:45:38.880 lives you could change. You started this without thinking much 1823 01:45:38.920 --> 01:45:41.199 about the good it would do, But look at the 1824 01:45:41.239 --> 01:45:44.880 positive impact. Think of your grandmothers, whom I have spent 1825 01:45:44.920 --> 01:45:48.359 their lives in unsafe homes, making do with little money. 1826 01:45:48.680 --> 01:45:51.640 Don't you think they appreciate what you've done for them? 1827 01:45:51.960 --> 01:45:55.239 She made a strong point. She went on with facts 1828 01:45:55.319 --> 01:45:59.079 she had clearly been saving while Mom smiled. Speaking of 1829 01:45:59.159 --> 01:46:02.479 helping others, you should create a charity. It can give 1830 01:46:02.520 --> 01:46:06.119 you tax benefits and really make a difference. I suggest 1831 01:46:06.239 --> 01:46:10.560 starting with a sco larship program for future lawyers. Just 1832 01:46:10.680 --> 01:46:14.479 two scholarships will do for now. I have the paperwork ready, 1833 01:46:14.479 -->

01:46:17.840 if you're interested. I let the silence linger until she 1834 01:46:18.000 --> 01:46:22.600 looked anxious. Okay, let's start with dollar five hundred thousand. 1835 01:46:22.840 --> 01:46:26.479 That should cover the scholarships and leave some extra funds. 1836 01:46:26.960 --> 01:46:31.199 Make sure the scholarships cover everything tuition, housing, and a 1837 01:46:31.279 --> 01:46:35.239 monthly allowance for things like gas and clothes. I'm putting 1838 01:46:35.279 --> 01:46:37.880 you in charge for now, but I will be involved 1839 01:46:37.920 --> 01:46:41.079 as we go along. Soon I want to add programs 1840 01:46:41.079 --> 01:46:44.760 for food service scholarships, at least at the associate level. 1841 01:46:45.000 --> 01:46:48.439 And I'd like to create something for kids who need help, 1842 01:46:48.760 --> 01:46:52.079 but we can discuss that later. Are we finished? I 1843 01:46:52.239 --> 01:46:56.520 smiled as I left, seeing their surprised expressions. I had 1844 01:46:56.560 --> 01:46:59.920 thought about starting a charity before, but never had time. 1845 01:47:00.000 --> 01:47:02.520 I'm for it now that it was presented to me. 1846 01:47:02.880 --> 01:47:06.079 I had no reason to delay any longer. I couldn't 1847 01:47:06.119 --> 01:47:10.199 stop smiling. True to my word, I nearly stopped traveling 1848 01:47:10.239 --> 01:47:13.800 completely and returned home every night to my wife. I 1849 01:47:13.960 --> 01:47:17.319 continued to work from the building we chose as our 1850 01:47:17.399 --> 01:47:20.600 corporate office. We bought it at a fair price and 1851 01:47:20.720 --> 01:47:24.079 fixed it up, fully leasing out the extra space as 1852 01:47:24.119 --> 01:47:27.319 soon as we could. My mom suggested I look into 1853 01:47:27.319 --> 01:47:30.560 some warehouse space, saying it might be needed soon for 1854 01:47:30.680 --> 01:47:34.159 future plans. I had to hire management staff to help 1855 01:47:34.199 --> 01:47:38.000 handle everything. They were mostly great people. I knew that 1856 01:47:38.039 --> 01:47:41.079 statistically there was a chance I might meet one or 1857 01:47:41.079 --> 01:47:44.359 two people who wouldn't fit in, and when that happened, 1858 01:47:44.479 --> 01:47:47.199 they would be let go quickly. I got Michael and 1859 01:47:47.239 --> 01:47:50.800 Miguel involved in charity work, where they helped with programs 1860 01:47:50.840 --> 01:47:54.079 in the neighborhood aimed at middle school kids. They were 1861 01:47:54.159 --> 01:47:56.800 at an age when they began to understand the world 1862 01:47:56.880 --> 01:47:59.600 around them, but they were also young enough to make 1863 01:47:59.640 --> 01:48:03.159 a real I joined them a few times to watch 1864 01:48:03.199 --> 01:48:07.119 what they were doing. Miguel always dressed nicely but casually, 1865 01:48:07.399 --> 01:48:10.560 while Michael liked a more formal look. He often wore 1866 01:48:10.600 --> 01:48:12.920 a three

piece suit with a matching tie over a 1867 01:48:12.960 --> 01:48:16.640 white shirt, and his shoes were always shiny. He even 1868 01:48:16.720 --> 01:48:19.239 started wearing a fedora, and I had to say he 1869 01:48:19.319 --> 01:48:23.000 looked quite sharp. They began their talks by discussing general 1870 01:48:23.039 --> 01:48:27.399 topics to grab everyone's attention before getting into the serious stuff. 1871 01:48:27.800 --> 01:48:30.560 I want you to really look at us. Yes, we 1872 01:48:30.760 --> 01:48:34.760 dress well, but underneath were just regular guys from the neighborhood. 1873 01:48:35.000 --> 01:48:38.279 Before we took this path, our lives were very different. 1874 01:48:38.479 --> 01:48:41.840 Two old photos appeared on the screen behind them, previous 1875 01:48:41.880 --> 01:48:45.600 mug shots. As the audience thought about the images, Miguel 1876 01:48:45.680 --> 01:48:49.159 and Michael took off their jackets to show plain undershirts 1877 01:48:49.159 --> 01:48:52.479 with their tattoos. This was our life before we chose 1878 01:48:52.560 --> 01:48:55.800 to change. If we had continued on our old path, 1879 01:48:56.039 --> 01:48:59.199 we wouldn't be here now. We were once rivals, which 1880 01:48:59.239 --> 01:49:02.760 could have led to worse outcomes. Think about it. How 1881 01:49:02.760 --> 01:49:06.119 many gang members do you see over thirty or even 1882 01:49:06.199 --> 01:49:10.359 twenty five? Not many. They often get trapped in cycles 1883 01:49:10.359 --> 01:49:13.479 that lead to hard times. We found a way out, 1884 01:49:13.720 --> 01:49:16.359 and you can too. If you need support or want 1885 01:49:16.399 --> 01:49:19.479 to talk, we have our cards. You can reach out, 1886 01:49:19.760 --> 01:49:23.000 and although it might not be us who responds, since 1887 01:49:23.079 --> 01:49:26.680 we travel often, someone will help you quickly. Then it 1888 01:49:26.800 --> 01:49:29.359 was my turn to speak. If I hadn't had a 1889 01:49:29.359 --> 01:49:32.840 flat tire in an unfamiliar neighborhood, my life would be 1890 01:49:32.960 --> 01:49:36.119 very different. I might still be working in a factory 1891 01:49:36.279 --> 01:49:39.039 and taking care of a small farm. That could have 1892 01:49:39.119 --> 01:49:41.800 been a good life for me, I think. But I 1893 01:49:41.880 --> 01:49:45.039 truly value the path I'm on now even more, not 1894 01:49:45.439 --> 01:49:48.960 just because of the money, even though I like being successful, 1895 01:49:49.119 --> 01:49:51.479 but because of the good I've been able to do. 1896 01:49:51.760 --> 01:49:54.520 If I hadn't broken down that day, I'd still be 1897 01:49:54.600 --> 01:49:58.800 a country boy, staying away from towns, especially the rougher areas. 1898 01:49:59.239 --> 01:50:02.079 I believed what I saw on TV that inner city 1899 01:50:02.119 --> 01:50:05.319 neighborhoods were places to stay away from. But I had 1900 01:50:05.359 --> 01:50:08.119 to stop

and I met an older black woman who 1901 01:50:08.199 --> 01:50:11.920 changed my life completely. I like to think I changed 1902 01:50:11.920 --> 01:50:15.960 hers too. Now, even though she's older, she's a successful 1903 01:50:16.000 --> 01:50:19.680 business woman involved in many projects. I hired my first 1904 01:50:19.720 --> 01:50:23.560 employee there, the woman's granddaughter, a fifteen year old mixed 1905 01:50:23.680 --> 01:50:26.720 race girl who was a bit nervous around me. Seven 1906 01:50:26.840 --> 01:50:30.960 years later, she's still with me. She graduated from college 1907 01:50:31.039 --> 01:50:34.680 and manages one of my stores. Miguel and Michael became 1908 01:50:34.800 --> 01:50:37.960 my friends before they started working for me, and now 1909 01:50:38.039 --> 01:50:41.439 I don't think I could be nearly as successful without them. 1910 01:50:41.760 --> 01:50:44.720 I've learned that no matter who you are, you have value. 1911 01:50:45.079 --> 01:50:48.199 Most importantly, you can change your life for the better. 1912 01:50:48.479 --> 01:50:51.039 We knew that if we were lucky, we would reach 1913 01:50:51.119 --> 01:50:54.119 about ten percent of those children. But if we did 1914 01:50:54.159 --> 01:50:57.520 and they became successful, maybe they could help others too. 1915 01:50:57.640 --> 01:51:00.800 I like to think that could happen anyway. I had 1916 01:51:01.000 --> 01:51:04.560 just returned from one of our talks. It had gone well, 1917 01:51:04.600 --> 01:51:07.800 and I felt great. When I walked into the restaurant, 1918 01:51:08.199 --> 01:51:11.359 Sandy and I had lunched together nearly every day. It 1919 01:51:11.560 --> 01:51:14.800 was a routine for us. Her pregnancy was clear, and 1920 01:51:14.920 --> 01:51:18.880 her regular customers often asked for updates. A few wanted 1921 01:51:18.920 --> 01:51:21.840 to throw her a baby shower, and she invited them 1922 01:51:21.880 --> 01:51:24.920 to the one the grandmothers were planning. She had just 1923 01:51:25.079 --> 01:51:27.560 one restaurant of the year from the city, and I 1924 01:51:27.640 --> 01:51:30.720 promised to hang the award in my office alongside my 1925 01:51:30.800 --> 01:51:34.319 own achievements. A couple of young guys followed me in, 1926 01:51:34.760 --> 01:51:37.800 but I didn't pay them much attention. The prices at 1927 01:51:37.800 --> 01:51:41.039 the restaurant were fair, so it brought in a mixed crowd. 1928 01:51:41.239 --> 01:51:44.560 I didn't realize anything was wrong until I heard a 1929 01:51:44.640 --> 01:51:48.439 gasp from the hostess. Then a loud noise echoed. I 1930 01:51:48.560 --> 01:51:52.279 turned slowly, relieved that Sandy was in the kitchen. There 1931 01:51:52.319 --> 01:51:55.359 were two young men, maybe in their early twenties or 1932 01:51:55.439 --> 01:51:59.159 late teens. One of them appeared to be under the influence, 1933 01:51:59.239 --> 01:52:02.680 and the others deemed very nervous, his hands shaking. I 1934 01:52:02.880 --> 01:52:07.119 raised my hands slowly. The boys started yelling about a 1935 01:52:07.199 --> 01:52:11.159 robbery and told everyone to stay calm. All right, everyone 1936 01:52:11.239 --> 01:52:15.119 needs to stay calm. Jenny opened the register and stepped back. 1937 01:52:15.399 --> 01:52:19.159 It's just money, she followed my instructions, and one of 1938 01:52:19.199 --> 01:52:22.279 the young men slung something over his shoulder and began 1939 01:52:22.399 --> 01:52:25.720 putting money into a bag. The other waved what looked 1940 01:52:25.800 --> 01:52:28.880 like a toy gun around, trying to keep the patrons 1941 01:52:28.920 --> 01:52:31.840 in check. Sandy had been in the freezer when the 1942 01:52:31.880 --> 01:52:35.279 loud noise happened. She peeked through the kitchen doors and 1943 01:52:35.359 --> 01:52:39.159 stepped out. What is happening here? She didn't shout, but 1944 01:52:39.319 --> 01:52:43.479 spoke firmly. Holding a large knife, she stepped forward. The 1945 01:52:43.560 --> 01:52:47.239 young man with the toy gun became anxious and lost control, 1946 01:52:47.479 --> 01:52:50.880 firing it. I rushed towards her, even as another person 1947 01:52:51.000 --> 01:52:53.640 yelled at me to stop. I felt a sharp pain 1948 01:52:53.840 --> 01:52:58.000 and stumbled. I ended up beside Sandy. She smiled and 1949 01:52:58.079 --> 01:53:01.600 whispered I love you through her paine. Then she was gone. 1950 01:53:01.920 --> 01:53:05.399 My heart broke. I turned back. The young man was 1951 01:53:05.439 --> 01:53:08.640 fumbling with something while his friend urged him to leave, 1952 01:53:08.840 --> 01:53:12.479 holding the bag tightly. I don't remember pulling my weapon, 1953 01:53:12.720 --> 01:53:15.159 but I felt it in my hands as I aimed. 1954 01:53:15.439 --> 01:53:18.359 The other person ran for the door, and I managed 1955 01:53:18.359 --> 01:53:21.479 to hit him, which made him stumble. Then I crawled 1956 01:53:21.560 --> 01:53:25.680 until I could hold Sandy in my arms before losing consciousness. 1957 01:53:26.079 --> 01:53:29.119 I woke up in a hospital. I was hurt, but 1958 01:53:29.239 --> 01:53:33.560 luckily not seriously injured. My family was there, including my 1959 01:53:33.640 --> 01:53:37.560 biological mother. She seemed relieved that I was safe, while 1960 01:53:37.600 --> 01:53:41.079 the others shared my sadness for Sandy. I spent five 1961 01:53:41.199 --> 01:53:44.279 days in the hospital before I could get up and dress. 1962 01:53:44.640 --> 01:53:47.800 The nurses were worried and called the doctor's for help. 1963 01:53:48.079 --> 01:53:51.159 I stood tall and looked them in the eye. My 1964 01:53:51.279 --> 01:53:54.359 wife is being laid to rest to day. I need 1965 01:53:54.399 --> 01:53:56.920 to be there. If you try to stop me, I 1966 01:53:56.960 --> 01:54:00.560 will find a way. Thankfully, I had support from Michael, 1967 01:54:00.680 --> 01:54:03.920

Miguel Josey, and Dan, who stood by me. They made 1968 01:54:04.000 --> 01:54:07.159 arrangements to help me by providing a portable roman for 1969 01:54:07.439 --> 01:54:09.920 and a nurse to go with me. When I entered 1970 01:54:09.920 --> 01:54:13.479 the church with the roman for stand, everyone gasped. My 1971 01:54:13.640 --> 01:54:17.600 friends stayed close for support. The place was crowded, and 1972 01:54:17.720 --> 01:54:21.640 people moved aside to let me through. All whispers stopped 1973 01:54:21.680 --> 01:54:25.079 as I reached the casket. She looked just as beautiful 1974 01:54:25.119 --> 01:54:27.720 in death as she did in life, with a calm 1975 01:54:27.760 --> 01:54:31.560 expression on her face. I cried quietly as I got closer, 1976 01:54:31.800 --> 01:54:34.880 and soon I couldn't hold back my tears. I leaned 1977 01:54:35.039 --> 01:54:37.600 and whispered to her for a while, with Jose and 1978 01:54:37.760 --> 01:54:40.520 Dan helping me stay steady. Before I took my seat. 1979 01:54:40.760 --> 01:54:44.119 What I said was private, known only to her, me 1980 01:54:44.399 --> 01:54:47.840 and God. It hurt deeply to see the tombstone chosen 1981 01:54:47.920 --> 01:54:51.560 by the family Sandra, our more beloved wife and mother. 1982 01:54:51.920 --> 01:54:55.520 I don't recall the graveside service or the gathering afterward. 1983 01:54:55.800 --> 01:54:59.000 A family member stayed by my side the whole time. 1984 01:54:59.279 --> 01:55:01.760 When it was o I went home, only to be 1985 01:55:01.800 --> 01:55:05.119 reminded of her everwhere. It took three months before I 1986 01:55:05.239 --> 01:55:08.520 finally let her things be packed away. I kept the 1987 01:55:08.560 --> 01:55:11.079 pillow case she used the last night of her life 1988 01:55:11.119 --> 01:55:13.760 sealed and would take it out on her birthday and 1989 01:55:13.880 --> 01:55:18.079 our anniversary, smelling it until the scent faded completely. My 1990 01:55:18.279 --> 01:55:22.000 family managed the businesses and let me grieve for six months. 1991 01:55:22.359 --> 01:55:26.359 Then one day Misschen came to my door. My biological 1992 01:55:26.399 --> 01:55:29.279 mother had come a week after the funeral, saying I 1993 01:55:29.399 --> 01:55:32.640 needed to go home, sell my businesses and live normally 1994 01:55:32.760 --> 01:55:36.640 with my family. I was upset, what family. You didn't 1995 01:55:36.680 --> 01:55:39.760 come to the funeral or the funeral home. None of 1996 01:55:39.840 --> 01:55:43.039 my family did. My real family took care of the 1997 01:55:43.199 --> 01:55:46.479 arrangements and one of them has visited me every day. 1998 01:55:46.720 --> 01:55:50.439 Thanks for your concern, mother, but I'm okay here. It 1999 01:55:50.600 --> 01:55:53.760 was over two years before I saw her again. My 2000 01:55:53.880 --> 01:55:56.840 mother hugged me and then said, it's time to go 2001 01:55:57.000 --> 01:56:00.680 back to work and join life again. Your son graduates 2002 01:56:00.720 --> 01:56:03.279 in three months and you need to be there for him. 2003 01:56:03.560 --> 01:56:06.920 I thought about he had really liked Sandy, and when 2004 01:56:06.960 --> 01:56:09.319 he found out she was going to have a baby, 2005 01:56:09.479 --> 01:56:12.840 he was filled with joy. He and his girlfriend, Ashley 2006 01:56:12.960 --> 01:56:15.920 were excited to be babysitters, thinking it would be good 2007 01:56:15.960 --> 01:56:19.119 practice for the future. They sat next to meet during 2008 01:56:19.199 --> 01:56:22.760 the service, one on each side. Mickey was a Palbera 2009 01:56:22.800 --> 01:56:26.600 along with jose Dan, Miguel, Michael, and Connie, showing how 2010 01:56:26.680 --> 01:56:29.840 much Sandy meant to them. I returned to work and 2011 01:56:29.960 --> 01:56:33.600 slowly got back into everyday life. Three years had gone 2012 01:56:33.600 --> 01:56:36.560 by since I last saw Kara, and I hadn't dated 2013 01:56:36.560 --> 01:56:40.279 any one, Believing I would never meet someone like Sandy again. 2014 01:56:40.560 --> 01:56:44.560 I focused my energy on business. I owned eleven stores 2015 01:56:44.600 --> 01:56:47.319 and was planning to open five more in the next 2016 01:56:47.359 --> 01:56:51.399 eight months. I also started working in real estate, looking 2017 01:56:51.479 --> 01:56:54.680 for properties near my stores that needed fixing. If I 2018 01:56:54.800 --> 01:56:57.920 found a good deal, I would buy renovate and use 2019 01:56:58.000 --> 01:57:00.479 the income from my stores to rent or sell them 2020 01:57:00.479 --> 01:57:03.319 for a profit. I had seven trucks on the road, 2021 01:57:03.520 --> 01:57:07.640 all decorated with images of the Grandmother's. With the new stores, 2022 01:57:07.840 --> 01:57:10.439 I would need to buy at least two more trucks. 2023 01:57:10.680 --> 01:57:13.119 I made it a point to hire many people from 2024 01:57:13.159 --> 01:57:17.439 diverse backgrounds and those facing challenges. In total, I had 2025 01:57:17.439 --> 01:57:20.680 two hundred full time employees and twice that many part 2026 01:57:20.760 --> 01:57:24.760 timers across my businesses. I expanded the foundation part of 2027 01:57:24.800 --> 01:57:28.199 my company, helping many part timers and children of full 2028 01:57:28.239 --> 01:57:31.319 timers pay for at least two years of college. My 2029 01:57:31.479 --> 01:57:35.720 health insurance was among the best available, which attracted many workers. 2030 01:57:36.039 --> 01:57:38.840 I could have saved a lot by offering a cheaper plan, 2031 01:57:39.199 --> 01:57:41.800 but I stuck to my values and I believed in 2032 01:57:41.840 --> 01:57:45.279 supporting my team. I sent Kara an e mail inviting 2033 01:57:45.319 --> 01:57:48.720 her to join us if she wanted. She replied quickly 2034 01:57:48.920 --> 01:57:52.399 asking for details and what gift would be appropriate. I 2035 01:57:52.479 --> 01:57:56.319

responded saying a gift wasn't necessary and provided the time 2036 01:57:56.439 --> 01:57:59.840 and place. Of course, she brought them a lovely gift, 2037 01:58:00.159 --> 01:58:03.159 a fancy coffee machine and a voucher for a year's 2038 01:58:03.199 --> 01:58:06.600 supply of premium coffee. It was hard not to admire 2039 01:58:06.640 --> 01:58:10.680 her when she arrived. Always beautiful, she seemed to have 2040 01:58:10.800 --> 01:58:13.760 learned that less make up can be more effective, though 2041 01:58:13.840 --> 01:58:16.680 she may have used a little extra around her eyes. 2042 01:58:17.119 --> 01:58:20.640 She greeted Ashley and Mickey with hugs, thanking them again 2043 01:58:20.720 --> 01:58:23.840 for the invitation. As the best man, I didn't have 2044 01:58:24.000 --> 01:58:26.600 much time to talk to her. I did notice her 2045 01:58:26.720 --> 01:58:29.680 in the second pew as I stood beside Micky. She 2046 01:58:29.840 --> 01:58:33.760 looked emotional, holding a tissue to her face. I wondered 2047 01:58:33.800 --> 01:58:36.600 if she was thinking about them or about our past. 2048 01:58:36.880 --> 01:58:40.479 I decided to let that go. The wedding went by quickly, 2049 01:58:40.680 --> 01:58:43.359 and I was surprised when she stood beside me at 2050 01:58:43.359 --> 01:58:46.479 the reception. Makie had warned the family and they were 2051 01:58:46.600 --> 01:58:50.560 curious about her presence. A little later we did the dances. 2052 01:58:50.960 --> 01:58:55.159 I danced with Ashley while Veronica danced with Makie, emotions 2053 01:58:55.199 --> 01:58:58.920 clear on their faces. Then I danced with Kara, thanking 2054 01:58:58.960 --> 01:59:01.760 her sincerely for being there for me all those years. 2055 01:59:01.800 --> 01:59:05.399 While her husband danced with Ashley. He was clearly touched. 2056 01:59:05.439 --> 01:59:08.680 When they separated, I wanted to find out what they 2057 01:59:08.760 --> 01:59:12.640 talked about after their honeymoon. Finally I got to dance 2058 01:59:12.720 --> 01:59:16.039 with Kara. We started with some space between us, but 2059 01:59:16.159 --> 01:59:19.560 that soon changed. I felt her tears on my shoulder, 2060 01:59:19.720 --> 01:59:23.479 but didn't say anything. When we finished, I offered her 2061 01:59:23.479 --> 01:59:27.920 my handkerchief. Still emotional, she hurried to the restroom. When 2062 01:59:28.000 --> 01:59:31.720 she returned, three grandmothers were waiting for her. They took 2063 01:59:31.720 --> 01:59:34.039 her arms and quickly led her to a table in 2064 01:59:34.079 --> 01:59:38.560 the back where Veronica, Connie, Alice, Missus, Hernandez, and nearly 2065 01:59:38.640 --> 01:59:41.520 all the women important to me were gathered. I could 2066 01:59:41.520 --> 01:59:44.840 only imagine the lively conversation they were having. By the 2067 01:59:44.920 --> 01:59:48.520 time they finished, they would know her entire life story. 2068 01:59:48.840 --> 01:59:52.479 Soon after, she came back to my table, sitting quietly 2069 01:59:52.560 --> 01:59:56.479 for a moment before speaking. You have a unique family, Steve. 2070 01:59:56.920 --> 01:59:59.720 The one thing they all share is their strong loyalty 2071 01:59:59.760 --> 02:00:02.520 to tail you. Thank you for sharing this day with me. 2072 02:00:02.920 --> 02:00:05.199 You have no idea how much it meant to me. 2073 02:00:05.520 --> 02:00:08.159 Please tell the kids I wish them all the best. 2074 02:00:08.479 --> 02:00:11.239 She took a deep breath. There are a lot of 2075 02:00:11.359 --> 02:00:14.520 things I want to say, but it wouldn't change anything. 2076 02:00:14.880 --> 02:00:17.840 You have your life and I have mine. Well, I 2077 02:00:17.920 --> 02:00:20.880 think your life is going well. At least you have 2078 02:00:21.000 --> 02:00:24.239 someone to be with A brief shadow crossed her face 2079 02:00:24.319 --> 02:00:28.680 before she smiled gently. Yes, I do. Your family mentioned 2080 02:00:28.680 --> 02:00:32.039 your loss. Do you think you'll find someone else? It 2081 02:00:32.239 --> 02:00:35.079 was my turn to think I doubt it because I'm 2082 02:00:35.079 --> 02:00:38.560 not looking. I've been married three times and none of 2083 02:00:38.600 --> 02:00:42.439 them ended well, especially the last one. It felt like 2084 02:00:42.560 --> 02:00:46.119 we were meant to be together, but life had other ideas. 2085 02:00:46.520 --> 02:00:49.680 She rested her hand on my arm. Believe it or not, 2086 02:00:50.079 --> 02:00:53.520 I understand some of what you're feeling. If I may ask, 2087 02:00:53.880 --> 02:00:56.279 what happened to the man who tried to rob you? 2088 02:00:56.600 --> 02:01:00.199 He was sentenced to seven years for robbery, which is 2089 02:01:00.239 --> 02:01:03.600 the law here. He got an additional fifteen to twenty 2090 02:01:03.680 --> 02:01:06.640 years for taking a life. This was his fourth and 2091 02:01:06.760 --> 02:01:10.359 fifth serious crimes, so the judge made him serve the 2092 02:01:10.399 --> 02:01:13.760 sentences one after the other. He won't be able to 2093 02:01:13.800 --> 02:01:16.960 get out on parole for another twenty years, and I 2094 02:01:17.079 --> 02:01:20.159 plan to go to his hearing. There was only dollar 2095 02:01:20.239 --> 02:01:23.439 one thousand, two hundred in the cash register. I would 2096 02:01:23.439 --> 02:01:26.119 have gladly given them a lot more to avoid the 2097 02:01:26.199 --> 02:01:29.319 situation if I had known. We stood up and she 2098 02:01:29.479 --> 02:01:33.560 hugged me again. I believe there's someone out there for you, Steve. 2099 02:01:33.920 --> 02:01:37.159 You're too good of a man to be alone. I sighed, 2100 02:01:37.560 --> 02:01:41.119 maybe I've been married to a white woman, a Hispanic woman, 2101 02:01:41.239 --> 02:01:44.640 and someone of mixed background. I think i'll ask miss 2102 02:01:44.760 --> 02:01:48.319 Chen if she has any single

relatives. Her arm held 2103 02:01:48.359 --> 02:01:51.520 me tighter. I don't think you'll need to go that far. 2104 02:01:51.840 --> 02:01:55.039 When you find her, send me an invitation. You have 2105 02:01:55.199 --> 02:01:59.279 my email address. I'll see you again, Steve. She kissed 2106 02:01:59.319 --> 02:02:03.000 me gently on the cheek before leaving. My family tried 2107 02:02:03.039 --> 02:02:05.640 to ask me about her and was surprised by my 2108 02:02:05.800 --> 02:02:09.319 reaction that part of my past is off limits. I 2109 02:02:09.479 --> 02:02:12.159 try not to think about it, and I really don't 2110 02:02:12.199 --> 02:02:15.479 want to talk about it. They quickly stepped back. I 2111 02:02:15.600 --> 02:02:19.760 glanced around the room, filled with important people from ten states. 2112 02:02:20.079 --> 02:02:23.319 It was a business dinner. I'd been named Businessmen of 2113 02:02:23.359 --> 02:02:26.479 the South and was competing with three others for National 2114 02:02:26.560 --> 02:02:29.920 Businessmen of the Year. The room was quite full, close 2115 02:02:29.960 --> 02:02:33.239 to one thousand people, which was more than I expected. 2116 02:02:33.600 --> 02:02:36.439 They started with the smaller awards before getting to the 2117 02:02:36.520 --> 02:02:39.920 main event. Me. I stood off to the side of 2118 02:02:39.960 --> 02:02:43.359 the stage waiting to be called. A spotlight lit up 2119 02:02:43.399 --> 02:02:46.439 the far side of the stage, and I was surprised 2120 02:02:46.479 --> 02:02:50.000 when Kara walked out in a beautiful evening gown shining 2121 02:02:50.039 --> 02:02:53.920 with confidence. She reached the podium and smiled, thank you 2122 02:02:54.000 --> 02:02:57.000 all for being here. Now we have the highlight of 2123 02:02:57.079 --> 02:02:59.600 the evening. I'm here to present an award to a 2124 02:02:59.640 --> 02:03:03.159 man that his peers have chosen. When I learned he 2125 02:03:03.239 --> 02:03:06.000 was a candidate, I reached out to the board to 2126 02:03:06.119 --> 02:03:08.520 ask if I could present this award if he won. 2127 02:03:08.920 --> 02:03:12.159 She paused and I looked at the screens around the hall. 2128 02:03:12.439 --> 02:03:15.760 Her feelings were clear. I know this man well. I 2129 02:03:15.880 --> 02:03:18.920 remember when he worked in a factory and farmed on 2130 02:03:19.000 --> 02:03:22.079 the side. He was a genuine person then, and he 2131 02:03:22.159 --> 02:03:25.319 has stayed true to himself even with his success. He 2132 02:03:25.479 --> 02:03:28.199 once told me that he never planned for any of 2133 02:03:28.239 --> 02:03:31.159 this to happen. It all started with a simple act 2134 02:03:31.199 --> 02:03:34.880 of kindness to a stranger. That sounds just like the 2135 02:03:34.960 --> 02:03:38.000 man I knew back then. I might not mean much 2136 02:03:38.039 --> 02:03:40.199 to him, but I am really proud of what he 2137 02:03:40.279 --> 02:03:44.119 has achieved. Even through tough times, he has been strong, 2138 02:03:44.439 --> 02:03:48.199 sharing what he has with family, employees, and even strangers 2139 02:03:48.239 --> 02:03:51.000 he may never meet. That is just who he is. 2140 02:03:51.359 --> 02:03:54.039 I know that while he enjoys his successes and the 2141 02:03:54.119 --> 02:03:57.960 recognition money, does not define him It's hard to find 2142 02:03:58.079 --> 02:04:01.840 anyone who will speak poorly of him. Usually if someone does, 2143 02:04:01.880 --> 02:04:04.880 it someone who has wronged him. And while he is 2144 02:04:05.000 --> 02:04:07.920 kind and caring, he has little patience for those who 2145 02:04:08.039 --> 02:04:11.279 hurt him or his family. Kara paused again to gather 2146 02:04:11.359 --> 02:04:14.680 her thoughts. When I was younger, I made mistakes that 2147 02:04:14.800 --> 02:04:18.439 hurt him deeply. Honestly, I'm surprised he can be in 2148 02:04:18.479 --> 02:04:21.079 the same room with me. I tried to say I 2149 02:04:21.239 --> 02:04:24.800 was sorry years ago, but it wasn't the right time. Now, 2150 02:04:24.960 --> 02:04:30.039 twenty years later, I finally get to apologize. I'm truly sorry, Steve. 2151 02:04:30.399 --> 02:04:33.960 I hope you can forgive me. She smiled suddenly. Well, 2152 02:04:34.199 --> 02:04:37.680 I'm sure he'll remember this award ceremony for a long time. 2153 02:04:38.000 --> 02:04:41.640 Ladies and gentlemen, please let me present Steve Moore business 2154 02:04:41.720 --> 02:04:44.319 Men of the Year for the Southern Region and hopefully 2155 02:04:44.359 --> 02:04:48.319 for the nation. Please Steve come join me on stage. 2156 02:04:48.640 --> 02:04:51.640 They urged me forward. As I walked toward her, I 2157 02:04:51.800 --> 02:04:55.359 looked into her anxious eyes. To her surprise, I gave 2158 02:04:55.439 --> 02:04:59.239 her a warm hug. Then I smiled and took the microphone. 2159 02:04:59.520 --> 02:05:02.439 Thank you all for this honor. It really means a 2160 02:05:02.479 --> 02:05:05.640 lot to be recognized by your peers. I believe my 2161 02:05:05.720 --> 02:05:09.159 achievements and modesty might be a bit over credited, but 2162 02:05:09.239 --> 02:05:12.600 I will keep trying to deserve this. I held Kara's 2163 02:05:12.600 --> 02:05:16.119 hand and turned to her. Kara, I forgive you. We 2164 02:05:16.119 --> 02:05:19.119 were young and not ready for a relationship as serious 2165 02:05:19.239 --> 02:05:23.039 as ours. I'm happy to celebrate your achievements. Even if 2166 02:05:23.079 --> 02:05:26.520 we haven't done it together. We've both done well. Please 2167 02:05:26.600 --> 02:05:29.640 go home to your husband. He's lucky to have such 2168 02:05:29.680 --> 02:05:34.000 an amazing wife. I faced the audience again. Thanks again 2169 02:05:34.159 --> 02:05:36.800 for this honor. Next year it will be one of 2170 02:05:36.800 --> 02:05:39.840 you receiving it, and I'll be just as happy for you. 2171

02:05:40.199 --> 02:05:44.520 Here's to success, Success echoed back from the crowd. I 2172 02:05:44.600 --> 02:05:49.319 guided Kara off the stage and said my goodbyes warmly. Goodbye, Kara. 2173 02:05:49.600 --> 02:05:52.119 I'm still a part of your life in some way. 2174 02:05:52.479 --> 02:05:55.520 I loved the photos you sent of the cabin and lake. 2175 02:05:55.880 --> 02:05:58.720 I would love to see it soon. A month later, 2176 02:05:59.079 --> 02:06:02.039 she'd emailed me to set a time to visit the property. 2177 02:06:02.279 --> 02:06:05.039 I picked a Friday so I could finish my work. 2178 02:06:05.319 --> 02:06:09.319 I'll be honest. At forty one, I was tired running 2179 02:06:09.399 --> 02:06:13.319 the businesses wasn't as exciting as before. I had no home, 2180 02:06:13.399 --> 02:06:17.640 life in my family was my motivation. Even so, grand 2181 02:06:17.680 --> 02:06:21.239 Ma Slia wasn't doing well at seventy four. She was 2182 02:06:21.319 --> 02:06:25.079 having health issues. She was on oxygen and could hardly 2183 02:06:25.199 --> 02:06:27.880 move around. I made sure to spend a lot of 2184 02:06:27.960 --> 02:06:31.560 time with her. Her children had both passed away, one 2185 02:06:31.680 --> 02:06:34.960 due to gang violence which happened far too soon, and 2186 02:06:35.039 --> 02:06:38.680 her daughter had her battles. She raised three grandchildren by 2187 02:06:38.720 --> 02:06:42.880 herself and never complained. Alice and Amy were wonderful women. 2188 02:06:43.159 --> 02:06:46.359 I never met her other grandson. He was in prison 2189 02:06:46.439 --> 02:06:48.800 for a long time and had asked her to stop 2190 02:06:48.920 --> 02:06:52.199 visiting him years ago. She still wrote to him, but 2191 02:06:52.319 --> 02:06:56.119 he never replied. Whenever we chatted, the focus turned to me. 2192 02:06:56.560 --> 02:06:59.680 Listen to me, young man. I know my time is 2193 02:06:59.720 --> 02:07:02.800 limited and I don't want to spend it worrying about you. 2194 02:07:03.199 --> 02:07:06.560 Losing your wife was hard, but you had something beautiful 2195 02:07:06.680 --> 02:07:09.359 for two years and that is rare. Would you give 2196 02:07:09.399 --> 02:07:12.520 that up? I didn't think. So it's time for you 2197 02:07:12.640 --> 02:07:15.760 to move on before you grow old and bitter. Promise 2198 02:07:15.840 --> 02:07:19.359 me you'll think about it. I sincerely promised and tried 2199 02:07:19.439 --> 02:07:22.479 to remember, but it slipped my mind. When I mentioned 2200 02:07:22.479 --> 02:07:24.680 the cabin and who was taking me there? A few 2201 02:07:24.720 --> 02:07:28.000 weeks later, her face lit up with joy. You know 2202 02:07:28.359 --> 02:07:31.800 the family wasn't very friendly at the wedding, right. I 2203 02:07:31.920 --> 02:07:35.039 have to admit, after hearing her talk, I thought she 2204 02:07:35.239 --> 02:07:38.119 was a good person, but a bit naive. She has 2205 02:07:38.239 --> 02:07:41.239 changed a lot since you were both so young. She's 2206 02:07:41.279 --> 02:07:45.000 a woman of honesty and respect now. She also tells 2207 02:07:45.039 --> 02:07:48.760 me she's fully committed to her husband. Celia looked thoughtful 2208 02:07:49.039 --> 02:07:52.239 your right son. She is. But if something were to 2209 02:07:52.279 --> 02:07:55.640 happen and she finds herself single again, you should reach 2210 02:07:55.680 --> 02:07:58.640 out and see if there's still a connection. It's not 2211 02:07:58.800 --> 02:08:02.199 about what you had before, for that's gone and won't return. 2212 02:08:02.520 --> 02:08:05.199 Take your time and see if you can create something 2213 02:08:05.279 --> 02:08:09.960 new together. Promise me, Stevie. That's a lot to ask, Sullia. 2214 02:08:10.279 --> 02:08:13.960 It doesn't matter how much time goes by. I'll always 2215 02:08:14.000 --> 02:08:17.319 remember the hurt and the heartbreak. She may have changed, 2216 02:08:17.760 --> 02:08:20.159 I hope she has, but if we were to be 2217 02:08:20.279 --> 02:08:23.640 together again, it will never leave my mind. If I 2218 02:08:23.720 --> 02:08:26.720 can't trust her, what would be the point? Trust me 2219 02:08:26.880 --> 02:08:30.119 when I say this time can heal even the deepest wounds. 2220 02:08:30.399 --> 02:08:34.119 Tell me, how often do you think of Sandy? Every day? 2221 02:08:34.439 --> 02:08:38.159 Every hour? And Maria, I tried to recall the last 2222 02:08:38.279 --> 02:08:41.319 time I thought of her. I was surprised I couldn't 2223 02:08:41.359 --> 02:08:44.800 picture her face. The only time she came up was 2224 02:08:44.840 --> 02:08:48.159 when Mickey talked about her. He still visited her every 2225 02:08:48.239 --> 02:08:50.880 year or so. It had been a while since the 2226 02:08:50.960 --> 02:08:54.359 last trip. He felt frustrated about how they lived and 2227 02:08:54.439 --> 02:08:57.680 how his sisters were treated. He sent money to his mother, 2228 02:08:57.920 --> 02:09:01.680 hugged his sisters, and left. He usually didn't share much 2229 02:09:01.720 --> 02:09:05.880 about his visits, but he was really concerned about his sisters. 2230 02:09:05.920 --> 02:09:09.840 I promised to check on them. Three weeks later, unexpectedly, 2231 02:09:10.039 --> 02:09:13.359 both girls were given full scholarships to the best boarding 2232 02:09:13.439 --> 02:09:16.960 school in the country. They were excited to accept. The 2233 02:09:17.079 --> 02:09:20.159 oldest hadn't seen her mother again and was likely to 2234 02:09:20.239 --> 02:09:23.840 graduate soon. She told her brother she wanted to attend 2235 02:09:23.880 --> 02:09:27.880 college in the US. Another scholarship came up for her. 2236 02:09:28.119 --> 02:09:31.359 She was scheduled to spend time with Mickey and Ashley 2237 02:09:31.439 --> 02:09:34.840 before moving into her dorm room. The college was very 2238 02:09:34.840 --> 02:09:37.720 close to one of my stores, and

she was offered 2239 02:09:37.760 --> 02:09:40.960 a part time job for some extra money. She couldn't 2240 02:09:41.000 --> 02:09:44.119 start until she settled in, but her brother made sure 2241 02:09:44.239 --> 02:09:48.319 she had what she needed. Sellia noticed my expression and smiled. 2242 02:09:48.680 --> 02:09:51.840 Now tell me, after all these years, how often do 2243 02:09:51.920 --> 02:09:55.119 you think of Kara? That was a tough question. I 2244 02:09:55.199 --> 02:09:58.560 thought of her often, especially since she had come back 2245 02:09:58.680 --> 02:10:02.760 into my life. Grim and Maslia smiled. You never forget 2246 02:10:02.760 --> 02:10:06.239 your first love, you know, just saying. I took the 2247 02:10:06.359 --> 02:10:09.359 kids with me to see the cabin. Kara was there, 2248 02:10:09.600 --> 02:10:13.439 dressed casually. She smiled when she saw Ashley and Mickey. 2249 02:10:13.840 --> 02:10:19.079 Hi everyone, how's married life? Ashley looked radiant, everything we 2250 02:10:19.199 --> 02:10:23.119 expected and more. How about you? We saw a brief 2251 02:10:23.199 --> 02:10:27.279 shadow pass over Kara's face before her smile returned. My 2252 02:10:27.439 --> 02:10:31.279 life is good, even with the challenges I've been facing lately. 2253 02:10:31.680 --> 02:10:35.239 Now come on and enjoy this beautiful place. The house 2254 02:10:35.399 --> 02:10:39.039 was a stunning blend of logs and glass, tall ceilings, 2255 02:10:39.159 --> 02:10:42.319 four bedrooms, and the master bedroom was the only one 2256 02:10:42.399 --> 02:10:45.239 on the second floor, with a balcony overlooking the lake. 2257 02:10:45.520 --> 02:10:48.680 The kitchen was very modern, and the showers were nice 2258 02:10:48.800 --> 02:10:52.359 and comfortable. The back padao had an outdoor kitchen near 2259 02:10:52.359 --> 02:10:55.399 a big pool, and there was a small building for changing. 2260 02:10:55.720 --> 02:10:58.159 A wide path led to the lake, ending at a 2261 02:10:58.159 --> 02:11:01.239 boat house that was spacious in us for several boats. 2262 02:11:01.600 --> 02:11:05.000 The best part was the total privacy. The only way 2263 02:11:05.119 --> 02:11:07.760 in was through a private road with a gate. This 2264 02:11:07.960 --> 02:11:11.920 property has one hundred acres, mostly covered in trees around 2265 02:11:12.000 --> 02:11:15.119 the fifty acre lake. There are no close neighbors and 2266 02:11:15.199 --> 02:11:18.199 two thirds of the land is next to government property, 2267 02:11:18.399 --> 02:11:21.640 which means developers can't take it away. If you want 2268 02:11:21.720 --> 02:11:25.279 to escape from everything, this is the place. Think about 2269 02:11:25.319 --> 02:11:27.840 it and get back to me. I have two more 2270 02:11:27.880 --> 02:11:31.319 appointments to show the property soon, so don't wait too 2271 02:11:31.399 --> 02:11:34.119 long or you might miss out. She switched from being 2272 02:11:34.199 --> 02:11:37.760 a salesperson to a friend. It's perfect for you, Steve. 2273 02:11:38.159 --> 02:11:40.680 If I can see this from just a short time 2274 02:11:40.760 --> 02:11:44.760 with you, your family must be really concerned. You could use 2275 02:11:44.880 --> 02:11:48.319 some time off, a place to relax, away from work 2276 02:11:48.399 --> 02:11:52.239 and responsibility. It's okay to have your own space. I 2277 02:11:52.319 --> 02:11:55.119 didn't have much to say, so I told her I 2278 02:11:55.159 --> 02:11:58.680 would think about it. Mickey and Ashley were excited on 2279 02:11:58.720 --> 02:12:02.359 the way home. It's great, Dad, Imagine how much fun 2280 02:12:02.399 --> 02:12:05.760 the family would have. You could just relax and enjoy 2281 02:12:05.840 --> 02:12:09.359 the time together. You used to love fishing. This could 2282 02:12:09.359 --> 02:12:12.079 be your chance to do it again. I don't know. 2283 02:12:12.399 --> 02:12:15.239 I hate the idea of it being empty most of 2284 02:12:15.279 --> 02:12:17.920 the time. If I had some adult kids who would 2285 02:12:18.000 --> 02:12:21.680 use it, I might feel differently. Maybe I could convince 2286 02:12:21.760 --> 02:12:24.960 some close friends and family to join me. They just 2287 02:12:25.079 --> 02:12:28.039 smiled and talked about all the fun times we could 2288 02:12:28.039 --> 02:12:30.479 have if I bought the place. I thought about it 2289 02:12:30.560 --> 02:12:33.880 for two days before I called Kara to share my decision. 2290 02:12:34.199 --> 02:12:37.039 I was surprised to hear her voice shake when she 2291 02:12:37.279 --> 02:12:40.960 answered the phone. EH, re you okay? She managed to 2292 02:12:41.000 --> 02:12:44.920 compose herself to reply short answer, No. I have some 2293 02:12:45.079 --> 02:12:47.720 tough things to deal with, but I'll get through it. 2294 02:12:48.039 --> 02:12:51.000 I'm sorry, Kara. If there is anything I can do, 2295 02:12:51.239 --> 02:12:53.960 please let me know. I don't want to bother you 2296 02:12:54.079 --> 02:12:57.439 right now. What I wanted to talk about doesn't seem 2297 02:12:57.520 --> 02:13:02.119 that important. You're right, I'm not ready focused right now. However, 2298 02:13:02.439 --> 02:13:05.279 if it's about the cabin, just send me an email 2299 02:13:05.359 --> 02:13:08.159 stating your intention and I will take it off the market. 2300 02:13:08.239 --> 02:13:11.880 For three weeks, I wondered if yet another marriage had ended, 2301 02:13:12.159 --> 02:13:15.359 then felt guilty. If that was the case, I guessed 2302 02:13:15.359 --> 02:13:18.319 her tone would have been different. I felt her pain. 2303 02:13:18.640 --> 02:13:21.399 It reminded me of what I went through when Sandy 2304 02:13:21.520 --> 02:13:25.600 passed away. I'll do that, Kara, but don't worry. Focus 2305 02:13:25.640 --> 02:13:29.239 on your situation and forget about everything else. I meant 2306 02:13:29.279 --> 02:13:32.319 it when I said if

you need anything, let me know. 2307 02:13:32.640 --> 02:13:36.199 That means a lot to me. Steve. Thank you. I'll 2308 02:13:36.199 --> 02:13:38.960 call you in a week or two. Is that okay? 2309 02:13:39.279 --> 02:13:41.760 I told her that any time would work for me, 2310 02:13:42.199 --> 02:13:45.479 held my phone and stared off into the distance. After 2311 02:13:45.600 --> 02:13:48.920 she hung up. Two weeks later, she called and asked 2312 02:13:48.920 --> 02:13:52.399 me to visit her office. It felt strange driving through 2313 02:13:52.479 --> 02:13:55.880 my old town, a small village about twenty miles from 2314 02:13:55.880 --> 02:13:59.680 my previous farmer's market visits. I wondered why she hadn't 2315 02:13:59.720 --> 02:14:02.720 moved to one of her other offices in the bigger cities, 2316 02:14:02.960 --> 02:14:06.199 where she always enjoyed living. When I saw her, she 2317 02:14:06.319 --> 02:14:09.439 looked thinner than I remembered and appeared tired, with more 2318 02:14:09.520 --> 02:14:13.359 lines around her eyes. Even her smile seemed less bright. 2319 02:14:13.760 --> 02:14:17.199 Once we were in her office, she got straight to business. 2320 02:14:17.520 --> 02:14:20.399 I took your offer to the owners. They turned it 2321 02:14:20.479 --> 02:14:23.359 down at first, but two days later they called and 2322 02:14:23.439 --> 02:14:26.399 said they would meet you halfway. Does that work for you? 2323 02:14:26.760 --> 02:14:29.960 It absolutely worked for me. I had made a lower 2324 02:14:29.960 --> 02:14:33.920 offer on purpose to start a negotiation. Their counter offer 2325 02:14:34.079 --> 02:14:37.399 was seventy five thousand less, which was a great deal. 2326 02:14:37.720 --> 02:14:42.000 I nodded and said I agreed. Then Kara asked about financing. 2327 02:14:42.239 --> 02:14:45.479 Surprised when I mentioned I would pay in cash. It 2328 02:14:45.640 --> 02:14:49.600 slipped out before she thought, you have that much cash available? 2329 02:14:49.960 --> 02:14:53.560 Not really, that kind of money needs to be used wisely, 2330 02:14:53.680 --> 02:14:57.039 and it is. I just need to rearrange some funds 2331 02:14:57.039 --> 02:14:59.720 and you'll have your check in three weeks. Well, good 2332 02:14:59.800 --> 02:15:02.479 for are you. How many stores do you have now? 2333 02:15:02.760 --> 02:15:06.039 Sixteen and we'll add four more before the middle of 2334 02:15:06.119 --> 02:15:09.119 next year. That will bring us to twenty, and then 2335 02:15:09.199 --> 02:15:12.520 I'll likely be done. I didn't say that this included 2336 02:15:12.560 --> 02:15:16.000 four stores. I was taking over from a competitor who 2337 02:15:16.039 --> 02:15:19.479 had copied my business method. He got the stores, but 2338 02:15:19.600 --> 02:15:23.279 didn't follow my practice of hiring locally for all positions, 2339 02:15:23.319 --> 02:15:26.399 from part time up to management if he could find 2340 02:15:26.439 --> 02:15:30.520 the

right people. Also, his prices were about fifteen percent 2341 02:15:30.640 --> 02:15:34.079 higher than his competitors. He owned a fifth store, but 2342 02:15:34.199 --> 02:15:36.960 it had been damaged in a fire. I took over 2343 02:15:37.039 --> 02:15:39.840 the stores at nearly half the price and sent Micky 2344 02:15:39.960 --> 02:15:44.039 and Ashley in renovate, hire or bring back good staff, 2345 02:15:44.119 --> 02:15:47.359 and get everything running in four months. I was sure 2346 02:15:47.399 --> 02:15:50.000 they would work hard to succeed, and when they did. 2347 02:15:50.279 --> 02:15:52.560 I planned to give them a nice gift as a 2348 02:15:52.600 --> 02:15:56.399 late wedding present. The company name changed to Family Foods, 2349 02:15:56.439 --> 02:16:00.239 and we designed a logo featuring Ashley and Mickey surround 2350 02:16:00.239 --> 02:16:03.920 by smaller faces of other family members. We finished the 2351 02:16:03.960 --> 02:16:08.079 paperwork almost in silence, just signing here and there. I 2352 02:16:08.239 --> 02:16:10.920 handed her a check for twenty five percent, with a 2353 02:16:10.960 --> 02:16:14.279 guarantee she'd get the rest in less than twenty one days. 2354 02:16:14.720 --> 02:16:17.560 I'm glad you got it, she said, as she sorted 2355 02:16:17.600 --> 02:16:21.720 everything into folders. Honestly, you look like you need a break. 2356 02:16:22.039 --> 02:16:26.039 I still haven't fully processed losing Sandy. It's going to 2357 02:16:26.119 --> 02:16:29.920 take a long time, probably forever. Maybe this new place, 2358 02:16:29.960 --> 02:16:33.719 away from old memories will help. She touched my hand, 2359 02:16:33.879 --> 02:16:36.840 tears in her eyes. I truly meant it when I 2360 02:16:37.000 --> 02:16:40.120 said I was sorry. No one should lose someone they 2361 02:16:40.159 --> 02:16:43.280 care for in such a painful way. Your family told 2362 02:16:43.319 --> 02:16:46.040 me she was an amazing woman. She must have been 2363 02:16:46.079 --> 02:16:49.319 special to keep up with you, Kara, I'm still the 2364 02:16:49.360 --> 02:16:52.639 same person I was years ago. She took my hand 2365 02:16:52.719 --> 02:16:56.600 and looked directly into my eyes. No, you're not. You're 2366 02:16:56.639 --> 02:16:59.559 a better man now than before. You could have kept 2367 02:16:59.600 --> 02:17:02.879 everything to yourself, but you decided to share and help 2368 02:17:02.920 --> 02:17:06.120 those who needed a chance to succeed. They worked hard 2369 02:17:06.159 --> 02:17:09.760 to show you they were capable. Grandma Greeley once told 2370 02:17:09.840 --> 02:17:12.959 me they wanted to make you proud. Even now, you're 2371 02:17:13.000 --> 02:17:17.040 still giving back with mentoring, sports teams and school programs. 2372 02:17:17.280 --> 02:17:20.040 Anything to help the communities where you work is on 2373 02:17:20.159 --> 02:17:24.120 the table. Don't lose hope, Stevie. You deserve to find 2374 02:17:24.159 --> 02:17:27.799 love again. You're too good a person to miss out there. 2375 02:17:28.079 --> 02:17:30.959 I said it. I tried to remember the last time 2376 02:17:31.079 --> 02:17:34.319 someone called me Stevie. It was her twenty years ago. 2377 02:17:34.639 --> 02:17:38.120 It made me smile. I hope you're right, Kara. Thanks 2378 02:17:38.200 --> 02:17:41.920 for everything. Maybe the new place will lift my spirits. 2379 02:17:42.239 --> 02:17:45.239 And the offer still stands and a time you and 2380 02:17:45.319 --> 02:17:48.120 your husband want to use it, just let me know. 2381 02:17:48.520 --> 02:17:52.440 She stood with me, looking sad. Steeve, can I ask 2382 02:17:52.520 --> 02:17:55.360 you to do something for me? It won't take long. 2383 02:17:55.680 --> 02:17:59.120 A five minute drive, maybe half an hour of chatting. 2384 02:17:59.399 --> 02:18:02.719 That's all I need. It's important because I want you 2385 02:18:02.840 --> 02:18:05.680 to see who I am now. Seeing the urgency in 2386 02:18:05.760 --> 02:18:09.879 her eyes, I agreed. A small smile appeared on her lips. 2387 02:18:10.120 --> 02:18:12.760 Thank you. You can follow me in your car and 2388 02:18:12.879 --> 02:18:16.079 leave straight from where we're going. We arrived in a 2389 02:18:16.159 --> 02:18:19.719 nice neighborhood. The houses were solid and well kept, a 2390 02:18:19.760 --> 02:18:23.159 step above average. She got out at a beautiful home 2391 02:18:23.239 --> 02:18:27.680 made of rock and cedar that was nicely landscaped. My home. 2392 02:18:27.959 --> 02:18:31.559 Come on, I want to introduce you to someone. We 2393 02:18:31.760 --> 02:18:35.319 walked through the door and down a short hallway. She knocked, 2394 02:18:35.520 --> 02:18:39.120 waited a moment, then entered, asking me to stay outside. 2395 02:18:39.399 --> 02:18:42.319 When she came back, there were tears on her cheeks, 2396 02:18:42.319 --> 02:18:45.200 and she silently motioned for me to enter. What I 2397 02:18:45.319 --> 02:18:48.920 saw was unexpected. There was a hospital bed and a 2398 02:18:48.920 --> 02:18:52.280 frail man lay there, with an oxygen tank nearby. The 2399 02:18:52.360 --> 02:18:55.159 bed was raised to a sitting position, and he took 2400 02:18:55.200 --> 02:18:58.200 off his mask as he waved me over. I took 2401 02:18:58.280 --> 02:19:02.479 his hand gently, carefulness to hurt him. Hi. I'm Bob, 2402 02:19:02.680 --> 02:19:06.200 Kara's husband. I've wanted to meet you for a long time. 2403 02:19:06.559 --> 02:19:10.159 The situation felt strange. I was in my ex wife's 2404 02:19:10.159 --> 02:19:13.520 house talking to her clearly sick husband. We talked for 2405 02:19:13.600 --> 02:19:17.200 nearly two hours. He told me about his life with Kara, 2406 02:19:17.399 --> 02:19:20.840 how their relationship grew closer, and how she had opened 2407 02:19:20.920 --> 02:19:23.760 up about her past. It took me a long time 2408 02:19:23.920 --> 02:19:26.920 to

accept what she told me I was afraid I 2409 02:19:27.040 --> 02:19:30.280 might get hurt. I was running a successful business that 2410 02:19:30.360 --> 02:19:33.120 my father had started, and I had worked hard to 2411 02:19:33.159 --> 02:19:36.600 grow it. But she wanted a prenuptial agreement that stated 2412 02:19:36.639 --> 02:19:39.639 she wouldn't get any profits or part of my earnings. 2413 02:19:39.959 --> 02:19:42.959 As we got closer, I realized she was the one 2414 02:19:43.040 --> 02:19:45.840 for me. I decided to take a chance on her. 2415 02:19:46.079 --> 02:19:49.479 In eight years together, she never let me down. My 2416 02:19:49.680 --> 02:19:52.159 only regret is that I wish I could love her 2417 02:19:52.239 --> 02:19:56.239 for longer. He paused to catch his breath before speaking again. 2418 02:19:56.559 --> 02:19:59.159 After we were married for a year, I asked her 2419 02:19:59.200 --> 02:20:01.680 what drew her to me. She looked a bit sad 2420 02:20:01.760 --> 02:20:04.239 and said it was because I reminded her of you. 2421 02:20:04.600 --> 02:20:06.840 She said he was a good man, and I made 2422 02:20:06.879 --> 02:20:10.600 some poor choices over time. I promised myself, if I 2423 02:20:10.719 --> 02:20:13.879 ever found some one like him again, I would appreciate 2424 02:20:14.000 --> 02:20:17.399 him always. I think God felt sorry for me because 2425 02:20:17.440 --> 02:20:20.479 he brought me you. I thank him every day. I 2426 02:20:20.680 --> 02:20:25.079 still remember her words, he sighed, looking pensive. I bet 2427 02:20:25.120 --> 02:20:29.120 she didn't realize my decisions we have consequences. My health 2428 02:20:29.239 --> 02:20:31.879 is not good, and I don't have much time left, 2429 02:20:32.319 --> 02:20:35.440 maybe a few months or a few days. At most 2430 02:20:35.760 --> 02:20:38.360 you might be wondering why you're here. I made her 2431 02:20:38.440 --> 02:20:41.719 promise that if you ever spoke again, she would introduce 2432 02:20:41.799 --> 02:20:44.520 you to me. I wanted to see what her first 2433 02:20:44.600 --> 02:20:47.600 love was like. So far, you've lived up to that. 2434 02:20:48.120 --> 02:20:51.280 He paused. Ben said, you don't know me well, but 2435 02:20:51.360 --> 02:20:54.600 I have a favor to ask. When I'm gone, Please 2436 02:20:54.680 --> 02:20:57.479 be there for her. I don't have close family and 2437 02:20:57.600 --> 02:21:01.239 her parents are no longer around. She will need support 2438 02:21:01.399 --> 02:21:05.040 until she finds her way again. He showed me pictures 2439 02:21:05.079 --> 02:21:08.280 from their early days together. He had a wonderful smile, 2440 02:21:08.360 --> 02:21:10.920 full of life, and it was hard to match that 2441 02:21:11.040 --> 02:21:14.440 image with the fragile man before me. Kara looked truly 2442 02:21:14.520 --> 02:21:18.559 happy in those photos. He talked about wishing they had children, 2443 02:21:18.840 --> 02:21:21.559 saying it

would have given her something to focus on. 2444 02:21:21.719 --> 02:21:24.680 As he spoke, I could tell he was just glad 2445 02:21:24.719 --> 02:21:27.840 to share his memories. He glanced at the clock and 2446 02:21:27.920 --> 02:21:32.399 realized how much time had passed, apologizing for taking so long. 2447 02:21:32.559 --> 02:21:35.159 He needed to rest for a bit, so we sat 2448 02:21:35.280 --> 02:21:38.520 in silence. Once he caught his breath, he thanked me 2449 02:21:38.639 --> 02:21:42.079 for coming. He extended his hand and I shook it again. 2450 02:21:42.399 --> 02:21:45.799 It was nice to meet you, Steve Moore, please think 2451 02:21:45.879 --> 02:21:49.000 about my request. I know it might be much to ask, 2452 02:21:49.280 --> 02:21:51.760 but it would bring me comfort to know she wouldn't 2453 02:21:51.799 --> 02:21:55.399 be alone. It was a pleasure to meet you, Bob Blankenship. 2454 02:21:55.680 --> 02:21:58.159 You seem like a good man, and I'm glad she 2455 02:21:58.280 --> 02:22:01.200 found happiness with you. I'll do what I can when 2456 02:22:01.239 --> 02:22:05.120 the time comes, he smiled as I left. A month later, 2457 02:22:05.360 --> 02:22:07.760 I received a call in the middle of the night. 2458 02:22:08.120 --> 02:22:11.079 I immediately thought it was Kara telling me Bob had 2459 02:22:11.120 --> 02:22:14.319 passed away. I hadn't visited in a while, but we 2460 02:22:14.399 --> 02:22:17.399 had spoken on the phone a few times. It was 2461 02:22:17.479 --> 02:22:21.120 about a death, but it wasn't Bob. Grandma Greeley had 2462 02:22:21.159 --> 02:22:24.760 passed away after being sick for some time. She went 2463 02:22:24.840 --> 02:22:28.399 peacefully in her sleep. I hurried home, calling Mickey and 2464 02:22:28.479 --> 02:22:31.920 Ashleigh as I drove. When I arrived, I had a 2465 02:22:31.920 --> 02:22:35.440 hard time finding parking. I ended up leaving my car 2466 02:22:35.520 --> 02:22:38.559 at a church a block away. Alice and Amy met 2467 02:22:38.600 --> 02:22:41.559 me at the door and hugged me tightly, crying as 2468 02:22:41.559 --> 02:22:43.959 if they were the little girls she had cared for. 2469 02:22:44.200 --> 02:22:48.120 Miguel his wife and Michael's wife were their offering their support. 2470 02:22:48.399 --> 02:22:52.200 Grandma Vascus sat quietly in Celia's bedroom, next to her 2471 02:22:52.239 --> 02:22:56.319 best friend's body, tears rolling down her cheeks. I walked 2472 02:22:56.399 --> 02:22:59.559 in and sat beside her, taking her hand. I looked 2473 02:22:59.600 --> 02:23:02.760 at Cela and was amazed at how peaceful she appeared. 2474 02:23:03.120 --> 02:23:06.200 The authorities know, and the funeral home is on the way. 2475 02:23:06.559 --> 02:23:09.520 She paid for everything in advance and named you the 2476 02:23:09.680 --> 02:23:13.479 executor of her will. Celia always took care of herself 2477 02:23:13.520 --> 02:23:16.319 and didn't want to be a burden to anyone. Tina

2478 02:23:16.399 --> 02:23:20.600 then began to cry, her big sobs softening into gentle sniffles. 2479 02:23:20.639 --> 02:23:23.639 As time went on. She pushed away from me with 2480 02:23:23.719 --> 02:23:27.040 a determined look. I will be strong because that is 2481 02:23:27.079 --> 02:23:30.440 what she would want. But at night, or when I'm alone, 2482 02:23:30.559 --> 02:23:33.360 the tears will come again as I think of the 2483 02:23:33.440 --> 02:23:36.639 woman I loved like a sister for forty years. She 2484 02:23:36.760 --> 02:23:41.159 will understand. Now, let's go support the family. I'm sure 2485 02:23:41.239 --> 02:23:45.239 they need us. They did. Everyone broke down again when 2486 02:23:45.280 --> 02:23:48.000 she was taken from the house to the hearse one 2487 02:23:48.040 --> 02:23:51.600 of the officers, her eyes filled with tears, made the report. 2488 02:23:51.920 --> 02:23:55.399 She hugged nearly everyone there before she left. We had 2489 02:23:55.440 --> 02:23:58.200 a private service at the Baptist church, where she had 2490 02:23:58.239 --> 02:24:01.440 been a member for decades. The public funeral was held 2491 02:24:01.520 --> 02:24:05.040 at the local auditorium, which was completely full and the 2492 02:24:05.079 --> 02:24:08.840 aisles were crowded. The procession to the graveside was almost 2493 02:24:08.879 --> 02:24:13.079 two miles long. Josse Dan, Michael, Miguel, Mickey and I 2494 02:24:13.200 --> 02:24:16.799 carried her casket. I was surprised during the memorial when 2495 02:24:16.840 --> 02:24:19.959 someone suddenly sat next to me and took my hand. 2496 02:24:20.200 --> 02:24:22.879 I didn't look up right away, and when I did, 2497 02:24:23.159 --> 02:24:27.239 I was shocked. Kara was beside me, softly crying into 2498 02:24:27.280 --> 02:24:30.040 my shoulder. There was an empty seat next to me, 2499 02:24:30.280 --> 02:24:33.479 and she took it, holding my hand. It was a sunny, 2500 02:24:33.639 --> 02:24:36.840 bright day in early June, and I wore sunglasses that 2501 02:24:36.920 --> 02:24:40.760 didn't stop my tears from coming down. She quietly sobbed 2502 02:24:40.760 --> 02:24:43.760 as the eulogy was given and the casket was lowered. 2503 02:24:44.079 --> 02:24:48.520 Celia's favorite flowers were white roses, so the family approached 2504 02:24:48.559 --> 02:24:51.399 one by one and placed a single white rose into 2505 02:24:51.440 --> 02:24:55.200 the grave until it was completely covered. Ashleigh, Amy and 2506 02:24:55.280 --> 02:24:58.479 Alice held on to each other for support, the only 2507 02:24:58.639 --> 02:25:03.239 thing keeping them strong. Micky, Miguel and Michael stood behind them, 2508 02:25:03.559 --> 02:25:06.920 trying to stay composed, but struggling. The choir from her 2509 02:25:07.000 --> 02:25:10.079 church came to sing one last song in her memory. 2510 02:25:10.360 --> 02:25:13.959 The song I'll Fly Away rang out softly among the trees. 2511 02:25:14.040 --> 02:25:17.000 As we walked back to our cars, Kara came to 2512 02:25:17.120 --> 02:25:20.319 my side again. She took my keys and helped Micky 2513 02:25:20.360 --> 02:25:23.319 get Ashley settled in the car. We drove back to 2514 02:25:23.360 --> 02:25:26.559 Celia's house in silence, each of us thinking about the 2515 02:25:26.600 --> 02:25:29.520 woman who had meant so much to us. Friends and 2516 02:25:29.639 --> 02:25:33.000 family moved around the house, looking at the many pictures 2517 02:25:33.040 --> 02:25:36.360 on the walls. Each one showed a special moment in 2518 02:25:36.440 --> 02:25:39.520 her life. I was surprised to see a picture of 2519 02:25:39.559 --> 02:25:42.959 Alice and me from when I was just starting. Alice 2520 02:25:43.000 --> 02:25:46.079 looked so young, and I wondered if I always appeared 2521 02:25:46.159 --> 02:25:49.559 as sincere as I did back then. Grand Massilia and 2522 02:25:49.680 --> 02:25:54.239 Vascus smiled in the background, surrounded by friends. My eyes 2523 02:25:54.319 --> 02:25:57.559 filled with tears again as Alice gently took the picture 2524 02:25:57.639 --> 02:26:00.559 off the wall. This was her favorite picture, sure of you. 2525 02:26:00.959 --> 02:26:03.360 She loved it because it was from a time before 2526 02:26:03.399 --> 02:26:06.399 you found success, doing what you loved and helping people. 2527 02:26:06.680 --> 02:26:09.040 She wanted you to have it to remember her by. 2528 02:26:09.600 --> 02:26:13.040 There was another picture of Sandy holding my arm, looking 2529 02:26:13.120 --> 02:26:16.040 up at me with warmth. I knew I wanted that 2530 02:26:16.120 --> 02:26:19.360 one too. I looked around for Kara to share this news, 2531 02:26:19.600 --> 02:26:22.360 but I felt sad when I realized she had left 2532 02:26:22.399 --> 02:26:25.719 without saying goodbye. I was not surprised to learn I 2533 02:26:25.840 --> 02:26:29.000 was named executor of Celia's will, but I was shocked 2534 02:26:29.040 --> 02:26:32.559 at her wealth. Grandma Celia had been very wise with 2535 02:26:32.639 --> 02:26:36.600 her money. The estate was worth just over dollar four million, 2536 02:26:36.959 --> 02:26:41.559 impressive for someone who started a new career at sixty. Michael, Alice, 2537 02:26:41.639 --> 02:26:45.120 and Amy each received a million, along with shared ownership 2538 02:26:45.120 --> 02:26:48.000 of her part of the bakery business. The rest, a 2539 02:26:48.079 --> 02:26:50.879 little over a million and a half, was meant for 2540 02:26:50.920 --> 02:26:54.079 the foundation I started. It would be used as I 2541 02:26:54.200 --> 02:26:57.959 thought best. Deep down, she understood how I would use 2542 02:26:58.000 --> 02:27:00.559 the money because she was part of the board. There 2543 02:27:00.639 --> 02:27:04.239 were personal items given to those important in her life. 2544 02:27:04.399 --> 02:27:08.200 Officer Dan received her two year old Cadillac, and Officer 2545 02:27:08.280

--> 02:27:11.520 Josie inherited her house, hoping to use it to raise 2546 02:27:11.559 --> 02:27:15.280 his grandchildren. He and his wife had suddenly become guardians 2547 02:27:15.319 --> 02:27:18.440 of three young girls after a tragic loss in the family. 2548 02:27:18.760 --> 02:27:22.680 They definitely needed the space. Tiner received all her jewelry, 2549 02:27:22.760 --> 02:27:25.239 and I was shocked at how much she had. We 2550 02:27:25.440 --> 02:27:28.760 all got long letters. Her last messages to us if 2551 02:27:28.760 --> 02:27:31.959 the others felt like I did, there were likely tears 2552 02:27:32.000 --> 02:27:35.319 in three states. She shared that she always saw me 2553 02:27:35.559 --> 02:27:38.520 as more of a son than a grandson. She thanked 2554 02:27:38.520 --> 02:27:41.959 me for guiding Michael and appreciated my care for Alice 2555 02:27:42.000 --> 02:27:45.159 and Amy. She mentioned it was no surprise that both 2556 02:27:45.239 --> 02:27:48.239 girls wanted me to walk them down the aisle, as 2557 02:27:48.280 --> 02:27:50.680 I was the closest thing to a father they would 2558 02:27:50.680 --> 02:27:54.200 ever have. She encouraged me to find someone to share 2559 02:27:54.280 --> 02:27:57.079 my life with. I've never met a man with so 2560 02:27:57.280 --> 02:28:00.000 much love in his heart as you have your still 2561 02:28:00.000 --> 02:28:03.040 till young. There is someone out there for you. She 2562 02:28:03.159 --> 02:28:05.600 will have to find you, since you won't be searching. 2563 02:28:06.000 --> 02:28:09.319 But when she comes, love her completely. If she can 2564 02:28:09.440 --> 02:28:13.479 have children. I always thought the name Selias sounded nice. 2565 02:28:13.799 --> 02:28:17.440 That way I could live on in spirit. Visit me sometimes, 2566 02:28:17.840 --> 02:28:20.799 I will know. A week later, I called Kara to 2567 02:28:20.840 --> 02:28:23.600 thank her for coming to the funeral. I could hear 2568 02:28:23.639 --> 02:28:27.360 her smile on the phone. I liked her. She was smart. 2569 02:28:27.719 --> 02:28:30.639 I bet she didn't tell you that. I spoke with 2570 02:28:30.760 --> 02:28:34.000 her almost every other day and visited when I could. 2571 02:28:34.280 --> 02:28:37.280 I'm sorry I had to leave so suddenly, but Bob 2572 02:28:37.360 --> 02:28:40.239 got worse and I needed to go back home. How 2573 02:28:40.399 --> 02:28:43.280 is Bob? Is he any better? There was a slight 2574 02:28:43.399 --> 02:28:47.120 pause in her voice. Oh, dear, he won't get better. 2575 02:28:47.399 --> 02:28:51.360 The doctors say it's just weeks, maybe even days. I've 2576 02:28:51.440 --> 02:28:54.360 let the office managers take over the business and I 2577 02:28:54.479 --> 02:28:57.639 meet with them via video every Friday. I want to 2578 02:28:57.680 --> 02:29:00.559 spend the time he has left with him. You should 2579 02:29:00.559 --> 02:29:03.559 call him. I made that call and it quickly turned 2580 02:29:03.600 --> 02:29:07.040 into a routine of checking in every three days. I 2581 02:29:07.159 --> 02:29:09.799 went to see them the following month and was taken 2582 02:29:09.840 --> 02:29:13.319 aback by his condition. He looked weak, his skin had 2583 02:29:13.360 --> 02:29:16.840 a yellowish tint, and he was constantly coughing into a towel. 2584 02:29:17.079 --> 02:29:20.040 We talked as much as he could, and when I left, 2585 02:29:20.200 --> 02:29:22.799 Kara came with me. I could see the worry on 2586 02:29:22.920 --> 02:29:26.079 her face. Without thinking, I reached up and touched her 2587 02:29:26.159 --> 02:29:29.879 cheek gently, how are you holding up? In response, she 2588 02:29:30.000 --> 02:29:33.680 hugged me tightly, showing the emotions she felt inside. I 2589 02:29:33.799 --> 02:29:36.200 held her for a long time on the sofa, as 2590 02:29:36.239 --> 02:29:40.079 her muffled cries quieted to soft sobs and then gentle sniffles. 2591 02:29:40.399 --> 02:29:44.559 She finally pulled away, managing a small smile. Thank you, Stevie, 2592 02:29:44.840 --> 02:29:48.200 you always bring comfort. I know he will pass soon. 2593 02:29:48.520 --> 02:29:51.120 By now he might be ready for it. He has 2594 02:29:51.120 --> 02:29:54.680 been by my side for almost nine years. We rarely 2595 02:29:54.920 --> 02:29:58.760 argued and hardly disagreed. I keep telling you he is 2596 02:29:58.799 --> 02:30:01.840 a lot like you. He has the same quiet strength. 2597 02:30:02.479 --> 02:30:05.159 I was too young to see that back then. With Bob, 2598 02:30:05.440 --> 02:30:08.920 I understood. He has been my support all these years, 2599 02:30:09.280 --> 02:30:12.600 my safe place when life was rough. I don't know 2600 02:30:12.680 --> 02:30:15.639 how I will go on without him. Kara, I know 2601 02:30:15.799 --> 02:30:18.520 you may find it hard to believe, but you can. 2602 02:30:18.959 --> 02:30:22.440 I went through something similar with Sandy. It has been 2603 02:30:22.520 --> 02:30:25.840 almost three years since I lost her, and I still 2604 02:30:25.920 --> 02:30:29.559 feel the sadness. She was everything to me, and then 2605 02:30:29.680 --> 02:30:32.959 she was just gone. When the time comes, call me, 2606 02:30:33.399 --> 02:30:36.959 I'll come right away. You don't have to face this alone. 2607 02:30:37.239 --> 02:30:40.159 We talked for a few more minutes. I went back 2608 02:30:40.200 --> 02:30:43.280 to say good bye again, but Bob was asleep. I 2609 02:30:43.360 --> 02:30:46.959 reached out and held his hand, feeling him respond back. 2610 02:30:47.239 --> 02:30:50.239 That was the last time I saw him alive. Two 2611 02:30:50.360 --> 02:30:54.719 days later, I received the call Stevie, He's I'm on 2612 02:30:54.920 --> 02:30:58.559 my way. The drive should have taken two point five hours. 2613 02:30:58.920 --> 02:31:01.879 I made it in just under two hours. I rang 2614 02:31:01.920 --> 02:31:04.600 the doorbell and a woman whom I

later learned was 2615 02:31:04.600 --> 02:31:07.840 a hospice worker. Answered. I didn't wait for her to 2616 02:31:07.920 --> 02:31:11.239 say anything, and walked straight past her to his bedroom. 2617 02:31:11.399 --> 02:31:14.799 To my surprise, he was still alive, but each breath 2618 02:31:14.799 --> 02:31:17.639 he took sounded like it might be his last. Carol 2619 02:31:17.840 --> 02:31:21.639 was beside him, holding his hand and gently touching his face. 2620 02:31:22.040 --> 02:31:25.760 The sadness on her face was overwhelming. I stood quietly, 2621 02:31:25.959 --> 02:31:29.760 unsure about interrupting their moment. Kara saw me, and, while 2622 02:31:29.799 --> 02:31:33.120 still holding his hand, reached out for mine. I took 2623 02:31:33.159 --> 02:31:35.760 her other hand and stood next to her as she 2624 02:31:35.840 --> 02:31:39.520 spoke softly to him. Steevie's here, dear, I told you 2625 02:31:39.600 --> 02:31:43.200 he would come. Her words caught me off guard. Most 2626 02:31:43.280 --> 02:31:46.159 people might beg their loved one to hang on, but 2627 02:31:46.239 --> 02:31:49.719 not Caara. I love you more than anything, she whispered. 2628 02:31:49.959 --> 02:31:52.719 I will be heartbroken when you go, but you are 2629 02:31:52.760 --> 02:31:56.280 in so much pain. Let go and find peace. I 2630 02:31:56.360 --> 02:31:58.959 will join you soon and I can't wait to see 2631 02:31:59.000 --> 02:32:03.559 you again. Fine, my love, it seemed. He squeezed her 2632 02:32:03.600 --> 02:32:07.159 hand tightly, then took a long breath and stopped. It 2633 02:32:07.239 --> 02:32:10.239 was a powerful moment. As we listened to him leave us. 2634 02:32:10.559 --> 02:32:13.360 Kara let out a soft cry and asked me to 2635 02:32:13.479 --> 02:32:16.680 help her up. She leaned down for a last goodbye. 2636 02:32:16.959 --> 02:32:19.920 She turned to me without saying anything, and buried her 2637 02:32:19.959 --> 02:32:23.920 face in my shoulder, expressing her grief. After a moment, 2638 02:32:24.239 --> 02:32:27.799 she pushed away slightly and sat back beside Bob, taking 2639 02:32:27.879 --> 02:32:30.920 his hand again. Could you please tell the hospice nurse 2640 02:32:30.920 --> 02:32:33.440 he's gone and ask her to give me a moment 2641 02:32:33.520 --> 02:32:36.920 before she begins the next steps. I quietly closed the 2642 02:32:37.000 --> 02:32:40.000 door and went to find the nurse. He passed away. 2643 02:32:40.280 --> 02:32:43.159 Kara asked for you to start the next steps, but 2644 02:32:43.280 --> 02:32:46.719 she wants a little time first. The nurse nodded. She 2645 02:32:46.879 --> 02:32:49.559 looked to be in her forties, but her eyes showed 2646 02:32:49.559 --> 02:32:53.360 a depth of understanding. I'll make some tea. She efficiently 2647 02:32:53.440 --> 02:32:56.920 prepared everything while the kettle boiled, and made the calls 2648 02:32:57.000 --> 02:33:00.319 needed to delay the arrival of others. Kara came out 2649 02:33:00.360 --> 02:33:03.600 of the bedroom about twenty minutes later, giving a small 2650 02:33:03.680 --> 02:33:06.079 nod to the nurse as she took a cup of tea. 2651 02:33:06.399 --> 02:33:09.600 She sat down at the kitchen table, stirring in sugar 2652 02:33:09.680 --> 02:33:12.600 and cream. I joined her, knowing she would speak when 2653 02:33:12.600 --> 02:33:16.319 she was ready. The officials arrived and left, after noting 2654 02:33:16.399 --> 02:33:19.559 the time of death and taking care of the next steps. 2655 02:33:20.000 --> 02:33:23.840 The nurse went through the medicine cabinet, collecting his prescriptions. 2656 02:33:24.120 --> 02:33:27.680 It seemed Bob had been taking some strong pain relievers. 2657 02:33:27.959 --> 02:33:31.680 When she finished, she hugged Kara gently and left. We 2658 02:33:31.840 --> 02:33:35.079 stayed at the table, and Kara stirred her now cold 2659 02:33:35.159 --> 02:33:39.120 tea absent mindedly. You must think I'm a terrible person, 2660 02:33:39.399 --> 02:33:43.040 she said suddenly. Her words surprised me. If you had 2661 02:33:43.120 --> 02:33:46.200 asked me that twenty years ago, I would have said, yes, 2662 02:33:46.559 --> 02:33:50.040 we've both changed since then. You have grown into a 2663 02:33:50.159 --> 02:33:53.600 kind and caring person. Why do you say that because 2664 02:33:53.639 --> 02:33:56.680 I didn't ask him to stay. You never saw him 2665 02:33:56.719 --> 02:34:00.000 when he was well. He was full of energy and life. 2666 02:34:00.280 --> 02:34:03.639 Seating him decline was painful for both of us. He 2667 02:34:03.719 --> 02:34:06.879 deserved to be free of his suffering. I think he 2668 02:34:07.040 --> 02:34:09.440 fought to stay as long as he could because he 2669 02:34:09.559 --> 02:34:12.319 worried about me. He was your husband and you were 2670 02:34:12.360 --> 02:34:15.559 his everything. He was right to care for you. If 2671 02:34:15.559 --> 02:34:18.879 it means anything, I believe you understood in the end 2672 02:34:18.959 --> 02:34:22.799 and appreciated your support. If I marry again, I hope 2673 02:34:22.799 --> 02:34:26.200 my wife has your strength. The nurse quietly came to 2674 02:34:26.239 --> 02:34:29.479 me before she left. I gave her a gentle smile. 2675 02:34:29.760 --> 02:34:32.680 I added a mild sleep aid to her tea. It's 2676 02:34:32.719 --> 02:34:36.799 her prescription. Please help her drink it. She needs to rest. 2677 02:34:37.120 --> 02:34:40.319 Tomorrow will be tough. You will stay with her, write 2678 02:34:40.680 --> 02:34:43.760 she'll need some one when she wakes up. I hadn't 2679 02:34:43.840 --> 02:34:47.360 planned that far, but agreed. Kara drank about half her 2680 02:34:47.399 --> 02:34:52.200 tea before yawning. I'm sorry, Stevie. I think my feelings 2681 02:34:52.200 --> 02:34:55.360 are getting to me. Kara, you need to lie down 2682 02:34:55.479 --> 02:34:58.799 and get some rest. You'll be busy tomorrow and we'll

2683 02:34:58.840 --> 02:35:01.959 need your energy. I'll stay the night and help you. 2684 02:35:02.399 --> 02:35:05.120 She didn't argue. When I guided her to her bedroom, 2685 02:35:05.280 --> 02:35:08.239 Kara kicked off her shoes and lay down just a 2686 02:35:08.319 --> 02:35:11.520 minute before I get ready for bed. Take the biggest 2687 02:35:11.600 --> 02:35:14.239 guest room at the end of the hall. It has 2688 02:35:14.319 --> 02:35:18.239 the best mattress. She fell asleep while still talking. I 2689 02:35:18.360 --> 02:35:21.760 found a blanket and covered her, gently brushing her cheek 2690 02:35:21.840 --> 02:35:25.120 before heading to bed. When I started running stores in 2691 02:35:25.200 --> 02:35:27.959 three states, I picked up the habit of carrying a 2692 02:35:28.000 --> 02:35:31.479 small suit case. I got it, took a hot shower, 2693 02:35:31.680 --> 02:35:35.040 and checked on her before lying down. She was curled 2694 02:35:35.120 --> 02:35:37.600 up next to her pillow, and I hoped she had 2695 02:35:37.639 --> 02:35:41.360 sweet dreams. I woke up early as usual, so I 2696 02:35:41.479 --> 02:35:45.159 made coffee and started preparing breakfast. The smell must have 2697 02:35:45.280 --> 02:35:48.319 woken her as she came into the kitchen. She went 2698 02:35:48.399 --> 02:35:51.319 straight for the coffee maker, filled a cup and sat 2699 02:35:51.360 --> 02:35:56.079 down to drink it before speaking. I feel numb. Steviees numb. 2700 02:35:56.360 --> 02:35:58.799 I know I have things to do to day, but 2701 02:35:58.920 --> 02:36:02.520 I can't find the strength. He's gone an there's nothing 2702 02:36:02.559 --> 02:36:05.079 I can do about it. What will happen to me? 2703 02:36:05.600 --> 02:36:08.680 You learn to live again. You don't think I felt 2704 02:36:08.680 --> 02:36:11.959 the same when Sandy passed. It took me six months 2705 02:36:12.000 --> 02:36:15.000 to feel like myself again. I think it was a 2706 02:36:15.079 --> 02:36:19.159 year before I smiled or laughed. You keep going because 2707 02:36:19.200 --> 02:36:22.600 you must. I sat down and took her hand. Now 2708 02:36:22.719 --> 02:36:25.760 go shower and get ready. We have things to take 2709 02:36:25.840 --> 02:36:29.159 care of today. The meeting with the funeral home went 2710 02:36:29.239 --> 02:36:32.520 as well as we could hope. We arranged the memorial 2711 02:36:32.639 --> 02:36:36.760 and cremation, and she chose the casket. He loved yellow flowers. 2712 02:36:37.000 --> 02:36:40.200 Could you arrange a bouquet for his casket? The helper 2713 02:36:40.239 --> 02:36:43.159 who assisted us was very kind and promised her it 2714 02:36:43.200 --> 02:36:46.239 would be perfect. He took her hand before we left. 2715 02:36:46.559 --> 02:36:50.920 We cared a lot about your husband, missus blankenship. We'll 2716 02:36:51.000 --> 02:36:53.879 make sure he gets the best. You have my word. 2717 02:36:54.159 --> 02:36:56.959 She let out two sobs and thanked him with a hug. 2718 02:36:57.319 --> 02:37:01.399 I was surprised to see Grandma Vazquez and Alice waiting 2719 02:37:01.479 --> 02:37:04.000 for us. When we got back to her house. They 2720 02:37:04.000 --> 02:37:07.120 wrapped her in a warm embrace and led her inside, 2721 02:37:07.319 --> 02:37:10.479 glancing back at me. Now and then I slipped away 2722 02:37:10.559 --> 02:37:13.840 for a few hours. Mom found me sitting on a 2723 02:37:13.879 --> 02:37:17.159 swing in the back yard, gently moving back and forth. 2724 02:37:17.600 --> 02:37:21.200 She's resting now. She needs the time, so we'll let 2725 02:37:21.280 --> 02:37:24.680 her be. Does she have family we should contact? I 2726 02:37:24.799 --> 02:37:28.159 can't think of any one. Her parents are both gone, 2727 02:37:28.360 --> 02:37:31.440 and she had no brothers or sisters. There are a 2728 02:37:31.479 --> 02:37:34.879 few cousins here and there, but I doubt anywhere close. 2729 02:37:35.239 --> 02:37:38.159 If they were, they would have come by now. Okay, 2730 02:37:38.559 --> 02:37:41.559 then we'll support her. I need to tell you something 2731 02:37:41.600 --> 02:37:44.719 you might already know. Kara cared for Bob a lot, 2732 02:37:44.959 --> 02:37:47.680 but he has gone. Now you know, she has been 2733 02:37:47.680 --> 02:37:50.639 talking to us, and the topic is often you. When 2734 02:37:50.639 --> 02:37:53.760 her morning is over and she finds peace, she will 2735 02:37:53.799 --> 02:37:56.680 start to pursue you. She has liked you since she 2736 02:37:56.879 --> 02:38:00.799 was younger, and those feelings didn't fully disappear. Can you 2737 02:38:00.879 --> 02:38:04.680 deal with that? Though my family fought differently at times, 2738 02:38:05.040 --> 02:38:08.319 I wasn't clueless. From the moment she introduced me at 2739 02:38:08.360 --> 02:38:11.639 the award's dinner, I realized she had never moved on. 2740 02:38:12.040 --> 02:38:15.440 Had I moved on? I think so when I met Sandy, 2741 02:38:15.760 --> 02:38:19.879 But Sandy was gone, Bob was gone. Only time would tell. 2742 02:38:20.159 --> 02:38:23.840 I shared this with Veronica as I softly touched her forehead. 2743 02:38:24.120 --> 02:38:27.479 Nine months passed. I didn't hear from Kara for the 2744 02:38:27.520 --> 02:38:31.879 first four. Then she began sending meat emails with general updates. 2745 02:38:32.239 --> 02:38:35.479 She was busy with her work, adding another office in 2746 02:38:35.559 --> 02:38:38.959 a different city, which kept her occupied. She sold her 2747 02:38:39.000 --> 02:38:42.360 home to escape the memories and moved into a small condo. 2748 02:38:42.760 --> 02:38:47.360 The emails became longer and more friendly, recalling hap air moments. 2749 02:38:47.360 --> 02:38:50.239 She mentioned Bob a little, saying he would always be 2750 02:38:50.360 --> 02:38:53.520 important to her. She asked about my love life in 2751 02:38:53.559 --> 02:38:57.200 a roundabout way and

shared that she hadn't been socializing 2752 02:38:57.280 --> 02:39:01.079 for almost two years aside from work events. I didn't 2753 02:39:01.120 --> 02:39:04.319 win the national Businessman of the Year award, and when 2754 02:39:04.360 --> 02:39:07.079 it came around again, I was asked to present the 2755 02:39:07.159 --> 02:39:10.360 regional award to that year's winner. I couldn't say no. 2756 02:39:10.840 --> 02:39:14.639 Instead of emailing, I called Kara. At first, she didn't 2757 02:39:14.680 --> 02:39:18.040 say much. After a couple of minutes, I asked if 2758 02:39:18.040 --> 02:39:21.159 she would join me for the awards. There was a pause. 2759 02:39:21.520 --> 02:39:25.319 You mean like a date. Yes, I mean exactly like 2760 02:39:25.399 --> 02:39:28.319 a date. If you don't want to go, that's fine, 2761 02:39:28.559 --> 02:39:31.040 but I would love it if you said yes. Her 2762 02:39:31.120 --> 02:39:34.719 response was clear, book us a suite. Just to be clear, 2763 02:39:34.959 --> 02:39:37.360 I won't be sharing a room with you, but I 2764 02:39:37.399 --> 02:39:40.319 would enjoy being with you. I'll come in a day 2765 02:39:40.319 --> 02:39:44.399 early and stay an extra day. Sound good, I smiled 2766 02:39:44.440 --> 02:39:47.799 as I hung up the phone. She arrived right on time, 2767 02:39:47.920 --> 02:39:50.440 and I helped her get settled in the suite. Kara 2768 02:39:50.600 --> 02:39:53.319 gave me a friendly kiss on the cheek and mentioned 2769 02:39:53.360 --> 02:39:56.120 she was going to take a bath. I want to 2770 02:39:56.239 --> 02:39:59.719 feel fresh for our outing tonight. I took that chance 2771 02:39:59.760 --> 02:40:02.840 to in the shower while she relaxed. I put on 2772 02:40:02.920 --> 02:40:06.520 some casual clothes jeans, a white shirt without a tie, 2773 02:40:06.559 --> 02:40:09.920 and a sports jacket. Just as I finished getting ready, 2774 02:40:10.159 --> 02:40:13.120 she called out to me, Steevie, can you help me? 2775 02:40:13.520 --> 02:40:16.520 I walked into her room and stopped in my tracks. 2776 02:40:16.760 --> 02:40:19.719 Her hair looked great, her make up was perfect. And 2777 02:40:19.840 --> 02:40:23.280 she wore a beautiful black dress. It reached just above 2778 02:40:23.280 --> 02:40:26.159 her knees, and she had on some tall heels. She 2779 02:40:26.319 --> 02:40:29.920 smiled at my surprised look and turned around. The zipper 2780 02:40:30.040 --> 02:40:33.360 on her dress was completely down. Can you zip me up? 2781 02:40:33.559 --> 02:40:36.559 Her back looked smooth, and I felt a little nervous 2782 02:40:36.639 --> 02:40:39.840 as I helped her. Once I was done, she faced me, 2783 02:40:40.239 --> 02:40:43.200 gave me a light smile, and picked up a small purse. 2784 02:40:43.559 --> 02:40:47.200 Where are we going? I remember you like surprises. She 2785 02:40:47.559 --> 02:40:50.959 just smiled and took my hand, remembering how much she 2786 02:40:51.040 --> 02:40:53.520 loved B

b Q. I took her to the best 2787 02:40:53.559 --> 02:40:56.680 place in town. She had to wear a plastic bib 2788 02:40:56.719 --> 02:40:59.479 to keep the sauce off her dress, but she thoroughly 2789 02:40:59.639 --> 02:41:02.399 enjoyed the meal. It took her a bit to clean 2790 02:41:02.600 --> 02:41:06.200 up afterward. While sitting in the car, she cradled her 2791 02:41:06.200 --> 02:41:09.799 tummy and sighed, I haven't eaten that much in forever. 2792 02:41:10.079 --> 02:41:12.559 Please tell me We're off to a quiet movie where 2793 02:41:12.600 --> 02:41:16.040 I can relax. Promise me, if I start snoring, you'll 2794 02:41:16.040 --> 02:41:19.120 wake me up. Her eyes got big when I pulled 2795 02:41:19.200 --> 02:41:22.079 into the parking lot of the dance club. The sign 2796 02:41:22.159 --> 02:41:26.559 out front Red Sandy Bottom Shag Club, Big dance tonight. 2797 02:41:26.920 --> 02:41:30.200 Shag dancing is a Southern tradition that started back in 2798 02:41:30.280 --> 02:41:33.840 the forties. It's a fun mix of various dances. We 2799 02:41:34.040 --> 02:41:37.479 loved it as kids. Our first vacation together was a 2800 02:41:37.520 --> 02:41:41.280 weekend trip to Myrtle Beach just to dance. We skipped 2801 02:41:41.280 --> 02:41:44.360 meals for two months and saved a lot just to go, 2802 02:41:44.639 --> 02:41:47.280 and it turned out to be one of our best trips. 2803 02:41:47.600 --> 02:41:50.639 After the first dance, we took off our jackets and 2804 02:41:50.760 --> 02:41:54.479 changed into comfy shoes. We did pretty well, even though 2805 02:41:54.520 --> 02:41:58.120 I hadn't danced in two decades. Kara twirled around happily 2806 02:41:58.360 --> 02:42:00.799 and we managed to dance for a bus thirty minutes 2807 02:42:00.879 --> 02:42:04.680 before kneading a break. She sat down, laughing and fanning 2808 02:42:04.719 --> 02:42:08.479 her face. We're going to be so sore tomorrow. Speak 2809 02:42:08.559 --> 02:42:12.280 for yourself. I planned to sleep soundly and wake up 2810 02:42:12.520 --> 02:42:15.959 ready for more. She just smiled and said we'd see. 2811 02:42:16.280 --> 02:42:19.879 We kept dancing until about one thousand, one hundred thirty 2812 02:42:19.920 --> 02:42:23.200 before calling it a night. Kara fell asleep just a 2813 02:42:23.239 --> 02:42:26.079 few minutes after we got back to the hotel, and 2814 02:42:26.159 --> 02:42:29.159 I found out she had a little snoring habit. Now. 2815 02:42:29.200 --> 02:42:31.840 I woke her when we arrived at our suite, and 2816 02:42:31.959 --> 02:42:35.440 she sleepily held onto my arm as we walked inside. 2817 02:42:35.680 --> 02:42:39.600 I took another shower and changed into comfortable clothes. I 2818 02:42:39.760 --> 02:42:43.040 almost jumped when I walked into the bedroom and saw 2819 02:42:43.120 --> 02:42:45.840 Kara in a pretty gown. I know I said I 2820 02:42:45.920 --> 02:42:49.280 didn't want to share a bed, but I changed my mind. 2821 02:42:49.559 --> 02:42:52.879 It's been over two years since I slept next to someone, 2822 02:42:53.159 --> 02:42:56.319 and I really don't want to feel alone tonight. I 2823 02:42:56.440 --> 02:42:59.159 need some comfort. Will you share the bed with me? 2824 02:42:59.520 --> 02:43:02.600 I didn't think twice. Do you still sleep on the 2825 02:43:02.680 --> 02:43:06.920 right side. Her sleepy smile lit up the room. I do. 2826 02:43:06.920 --> 02:43:10.520 Do you still steal the covers? I never stole the covers, 2827 02:43:10.879 --> 02:43:14.680 she laughed softly. If you say so, Time to snuggle. 2828 02:43:14.879 --> 02:43:19.159 Out of everything I had experienced, nothing prepared me for this. 2829 02:43:19.760 --> 02:43:23.079 Sleeping next to my first love after twenty two years 2830 02:43:23.200 --> 02:43:26.879 was something I never imagined would happen. Kara fell asleep 2831 02:43:27.000 --> 02:43:30.159 quickly after we settled in. I must have lain there 2832 02:43:30.200 --> 02:43:33.520 for two hours, thinking as she slowly moved closer to me. 2833 02:43:33.799 --> 02:43:37.520 When I finally fell asleep, she was nestled under my arm, 2834 02:43:37.680 --> 02:43:41.000 her hand resting on my stomach. She was still there 2835 02:43:41.040 --> 02:43:43.920 when I woke up. I felt her stir and knew 2836 02:43:43.959 --> 02:43:47.079 she was awake. Her hand moved to my head, and 2837 02:43:47.159 --> 02:43:49.920 she pulled me in for a gentle kiss that lingered. 2838 02:43:50.319 --> 02:43:53.639 She sighed and lifted the covers. I would cuddle more, 2839 02:43:53.879 --> 02:43:57.200 but I don't think you're into surprises. I have to go, 2840 02:43:57.559 --> 02:44:00.639 I chuckled as she rushed to the bathroom. I heard 2841 02:44:00.680 --> 02:44:03.840 her sigh from the bed. She spent a while in there. 2842 02:44:04.120 --> 02:44:06.920 When she came out, her hair looked perfect, and I 2843 02:44:06.920 --> 02:44:10.319 could taste the freshness of mouthwash. When we greeted each other. 2844 02:44:10.719 --> 02:44:13.479 It struck me that she was forty three and trying 2845 02:44:13.559 --> 02:44:16.680 to hide the signs of getting older. She had always 2846 02:44:16.760 --> 02:44:20.840 cared about her looks. I pulled back a bit. You're right, Kara, 2847 02:44:21.159 --> 02:44:24.799 I prefer sweet dreams, not distractions, and I doubt you 2848 02:44:24.920 --> 02:44:27.879 do either. I was standing by the sink when the 2849 02:44:27.920 --> 02:44:33.319 door opened. Kara leaned against the frame, smiling. I was surprised, Para, 2850 02:44:33.600 --> 02:44:37.479 what are you? Her laughter filled the room. Relax, If 2851 02:44:37.520 --> 02:44:40.719 you remember, I've seen you just as you are before. 2852 02:44:41.000 --> 02:44:44.159 You look different now? How often do you work out? 2853 02:44:44.440 --> 02:44:47.920 Four or five days a week? After Sandy, I had 2854 02:44:47.920 --> 02:44:51.200 to either exercise or pick up bad habits, and I 2855

02:44:51.440 --> 02:44:55.079 wasn't much of a drinker. She nodded sadly. I get it. 2856 02:44:55.360 --> 02:44:58.680 When Bob and I grew apart, I turned to exercise 2857 02:44:58.760 --> 02:45:01.319 to cope. I want you to know I never thought 2858 02:45:01.360 --> 02:45:04.040 of straying, but I relied a lot on my own 2859 02:45:04.120 --> 02:45:07.319 time over the last two years. How about you. Have 2860 02:45:07.440 --> 02:45:11.639 you dated anyone since No? I didn't even think about 2861 02:45:11.680 --> 02:45:14.680 it for the first year, and after that I couldn't 2862 02:45:14.719 --> 02:45:18.600 find anyone I liked. Wow, your dry spell is even 2863 02:45:18.719 --> 02:45:22.399 longer than mine. She shook herself and surprised me by 2864 02:45:22.440 --> 02:45:25.799 pulling a gown over her head. Quickly, come on, we 2865 02:45:25.959 --> 02:45:29.360 both need to freshen up. It felt strange as we 2866 02:45:29.479 --> 02:45:33.680 helped each other wash. It began softly, but quickly grew 2867 02:45:33.760 --> 02:45:37.319 more lively. By the time we finished, we leaned against 2868 02:45:37.360 --> 02:45:41.719 each other, enjoying the moment. She laughed and jumped up. Wow, 2869 02:45:42.079 --> 02:45:45.079 I really needed that. After you brightened up the shower, 2870 02:45:45.360 --> 02:45:48.440 I bet you needed it too. Now let's get dressed. 2871 02:45:48.799 --> 02:45:51.399 We have people to see. We had lunch with the 2872 02:45:51.479 --> 02:45:53.959 women in my tribe. As I started to call them, 2873 02:45:54.120 --> 02:45:57.760 my two remaining grandmothers, my kind little mother, the girls, 2874 02:45:57.879 --> 02:46:01.399 and even my two aunts. The waves of Josie and Dan, 2875 02:46:01.639 --> 02:46:04.559 Michael and Miguel couldn't join us because they were far 2876 02:46:04.639 --> 02:46:07.959 away finalizing a deal on another store. Most of the 2877 02:46:08.040 --> 02:46:11.040 children were around playing in the yard and calling me 2878 02:46:11.200 --> 02:46:14.239 to join them. The women thought it was a good idea, 2879 02:46:14.520 --> 02:46:17.479 so I went outside. I would have liked to hear 2880 02:46:17.559 --> 02:46:20.120 more of what they had to say. The kids kept 2881 02:46:20.200 --> 02:46:23.360 me entertained for about an hour until they called us 2882 02:46:23.399 --> 02:46:26.520 in for lunch. They all had that mischievous look like 2883 02:46:26.600 --> 02:46:29.520 they had made a plan. Even Kara smiled as she 2884 02:46:29.600 --> 02:46:32.399 held a two year old on her lap, feeding her. 2885 02:46:32.680 --> 02:46:35.280 I felt a twinge of sadness. As much as I 2886 02:46:35.399 --> 02:46:39.520 wanted children, being a part time father didn't seem attractive 2887 02:46:39.600 --> 02:46:43.000 to me. Even then, when Kara looked up, a shadow 2888 02:46:43.079 --> 02:46:46.719 passed over her face. I think she sensed my feelings, 2889 02:46:47.079 --> 02:46:50.079 she sighed. When we got back

in the car, how 2890 02:46:50.120 --> 02:46:53.680 do you remember all the birthdays? Amy put a program 2891 02:46:53.760 --> 02:46:58.479 on my laptop. It gives me reminders about birthdays, anniversaries 2892 02:46:58.559 --> 02:47:01.600 and important school events for the kids. I try to 2893 02:47:01.639 --> 02:47:04.239 make as many as I can and always send a 2894 02:47:04.280 --> 02:47:08.719 thoughtful gift. She smiled. I never would have guessed Stephen 2895 02:47:09.120 --> 02:47:13.120 more family man, More like Stephen more easy to please. 2896 02:47:13.440 --> 02:47:16.239 Those kids and their parents know how to charm me. 2897 02:47:16.639 --> 02:47:19.799 You wouldn't want it any other way. Just admit it. 2898 02:47:20.120 --> 02:47:24.879 You're right. My family wasn't very close except for my grandmother. 2899 02:47:25.280 --> 02:47:28.000 My birth mother doesn't have much to do with me. 2900 02:47:28.479 --> 02:47:32.600 She doesn't approve of my choices, and honestly, I'm okay 2901 02:47:32.639 --> 02:47:35.559 with that. What I share with the people we just 2902 02:47:35.719 --> 02:47:38.799 left is real love. They could have judged me by 2903 02:47:38.840 --> 02:47:42.159 my appearance, but they saw who I really am. People 2904 02:47:42.280 --> 02:47:45.959 could learn so much from my experience. What I learned 2905 02:47:46.000 --> 02:47:49.440 from grand Masselia could fill a book. To my surprise, 2906 02:47:49.840 --> 02:47:52.440 she made me stop at a flower shop and asked 2907 02:47:52.440 --> 02:47:55.040 me to wait in the car. When she returned, she 2908 02:47:55.159 --> 02:47:58.479 had two small flower arrangements and asked me to drive 2909 02:47:58.520 --> 02:48:01.639 to Forest Lawn. I want to say hi to Celia. 2910 02:48:01.920 --> 02:48:05.440 We stood by her grave. I wasn't surprised to see you. 2911 02:48:05.520 --> 02:48:09.239 A few more flowers near her headstone. Kara gently placed 2912 02:48:09.280 --> 02:48:12.840 the flowers and whispered something I couldn't hear. Then she 2913 02:48:13.000 --> 02:48:17.120 stood up and smiled. Here she said, a person should 2914 02:48:17.200 --> 02:48:20.639 always bring flowers when they can. We walked a few 2915 02:48:20.760 --> 02:48:25.239 rows over and stopped at another grave, Sandramore, loving wife 2916 02:48:25.280 --> 02:48:28.479 and mother. Tears filled my eyes as I placed the 2917 02:48:28.559 --> 02:48:32.040 flowers there. Kara stood close and held my hand. I 2918 02:48:32.159 --> 02:48:34.840 pulled back a bit, but kept a firm grip on 2919 02:48:34.920 --> 02:48:38.239 her hand. I need to tell you something important. No 2920 02:48:38.440 --> 02:48:41.079 matter what happens with us from now on, if I 2921 02:48:41.159 --> 02:48:43.719 pass away, I want to be laid to rest here 2922 02:48:43.760 --> 02:48:47.639 next to Sandra. Her smile said everything. That's how it 2923 02:48:47.680 --> 02:48:50.760 should be. I want the same for Bob when my 2924 02:48:50.959 --> 02:48:54.239 time comes. We owe it to them. We were quiet 2925 02:48:54.319 --> 02:48:57.159 as we walked back to the suite, each lost in 2926 02:48:57.239 --> 02:49:00.879 our thoughts. I surprised her by stopping in the lobby. 2927 02:49:01.000 --> 02:49:03.920 I have something to take care of. I would take 2928 02:49:03.959 --> 02:49:06.559 you with me, but it's work and I wouldn't want 2929 02:49:06.600 --> 02:49:09.559 to distract you. I'll be back in about an hour, 2930 02:49:09.959 --> 02:49:14.120 maybe a little longer. That's fine, dear. I think I'll 2931 02:49:14.120 --> 02:49:16.760 have a long bath. TO day has given me a 2932 02:49:17.000 --> 02:49:20.399 lot to think about. Kara looked beautiful in her long, 2933 02:49:20.600 --> 02:49:23.959 dark green dress that reached her ankles, which matched her 2934 02:49:23.959 --> 02:49:28.040 four inch heels perfectly. Her hair was styled in loose curls, 2935 02:49:28.360 --> 02:49:31.440 showing off her graceful neck. I told her how lovely 2936 02:49:31.520 --> 02:49:35.000 she looked, and she complimented my tailored tucks. I felt 2937 02:49:35.040 --> 02:49:37.399 it was worth getting the tucks as long as I 2938 02:49:37.440 --> 02:49:40.159 could keep my weight in check. The look on her 2939 02:49:40.200 --> 02:49:43.760 face when she saw my latest purchase was unforgettable. I 2940 02:49:43.840 --> 02:49:47.719 had bought my other car, a nineteen hundred eighty four Corvette. 2941 02:49:47.840 --> 02:49:50.840 We used to admire those cars when we were kids, 2942 02:49:51.040 --> 02:49:54.120 dreaming of having one some day. A few years back, 2943 02:49:54.319 --> 02:49:56.959 while looking for a new store, I found the car 2944 02:49:57.040 --> 02:49:59.959 in an older neighborhood. A for sale sign caught me 2945 02:50:00.079 --> 02:50:02.959 my eye, and I went back. After my meeting, an 2946 02:50:03.000 --> 02:50:06.000 older woman welcomed me and was excited to show me 2947 02:50:06.159 --> 02:50:09.479 the car, which had belonged to her late husband. She 2948 02:50:09.680 --> 02:50:12.239 was asking much less than what it was worth and 2949 02:50:12.360 --> 02:50:16.440 explained I really need the money. Our retirement plan didn't 2950 02:50:16.440 --> 02:50:19.840 go as expected. I offered her the fair price and 2951 02:50:19.920 --> 02:50:22.879 wrote a check right there, promising to come back for 2952 02:50:22.920 --> 02:50:26.479 the title transfer once it cleared. She had tears in 2953 02:50:26.559 --> 02:50:29.200 her eyes as I left. The car with only thirty 2954 02:50:29.280 --> 02:50:32.559 nine thousand miles, was in great shape. I didn't drive 2955 02:50:32.600 --> 02:50:36.239 it much because I enjoyed just having it. It sparkled 2956 02:50:36.319 --> 02:50:39.520 under the lights as Kara admired it, running her hand 2957 02:50:39.600 --> 02:50:42.719 over the hood. It's our dream car. How long have 2958 02:50:42.840 --> 02:50:45.760 you had it? I got it

two years ago. I 2959 02:50:45.879 --> 02:50:48.440 told her about how I found it. As we walked 2960 02:50:48.479 --> 02:50:51.879 to the venue, she smiled, holding my hand. When we'd 2961 02:50:52.040 --> 02:50:55.680 entered the event, we were greeted by many familiar faces. 2962 02:50:56.079 --> 02:50:59.520 They remembered Kara's introduction from the previous year and seemed 2963 02:50:59.600 --> 02:51:03.879 curious about us, especially since she no longer wore her rings. 2964 02:51:04.159 --> 02:51:07.639 We didn't feel the need to explain. Our story was 2965 02:51:07.680 --> 02:51:11.680 ours to keep. The night went wonderfully. I invited Kara 2966 02:51:11.719 --> 02:51:14.239 to join me on stage to announce the winner of 2967 02:51:14.280 --> 02:51:17.520 the award, a dedicated young woman who had grown her 2968 02:51:17.559 --> 02:51:21.760 nonprofit to national fame. In her acceptance speech, she added 2969 02:51:21.840 --> 02:51:24.959 humor to her plea for more support, and I decided 2970 02:51:24.959 --> 02:51:28.319 to help her. Later on, as the evening continued, we 2971 02:51:28.479 --> 02:51:32.000 mingled both together and apart. At one point I saw 2972 02:51:32.079 --> 02:51:35.440 Kara deep in conversation with another woman, and it ended 2973 02:51:35.479 --> 02:51:38.840 with tears and warm hugs. I was talking with someone 2974 02:51:38.920 --> 02:51:41.920 at the event when she suddenly reached out to touch 2975 02:51:41.959 --> 02:51:46.280 my arm. Just then someone else approached. There you are. 2976 02:51:46.520 --> 02:51:49.479 Every time I lose you, it seems I find you 2977 02:51:49.559 --> 02:51:53.600 chatting with an interesting woman. Should I be worried? I smiled, 2978 02:51:53.799 --> 02:51:56.520 realizing she was making it clear to the woman that 2979 02:51:56.600 --> 02:51:59.600 I had a partner. Not at all. We were just 2980 02:51:59.680 --> 02:52:04.159 discos gussing our interests. Excuse us, please. We walked away 2981 02:52:04.239 --> 02:52:09.200 from the surprised person, both smiling. What just happened? She asked, 2982 02:52:09.600 --> 02:52:12.719 she wasn't the right match for you. I recognize that 2983 02:52:12.799 --> 02:52:16.000 look too well. I went through a similar phase after 2984 02:52:16.079 --> 02:52:19.360 we split, and it wasn't my best moment. We all 2985 02:52:19.440 --> 02:52:23.120 find our way eventually. I wish her happiness with whoever 2986 02:52:23.239 --> 02:52:26.559 she connects with. She smirked a bit. Let's hope he 2987 02:52:26.719 --> 02:52:29.760 knows how to take care of himself. It's been a 2988 02:52:29.840 --> 02:52:33.000 long day. Can we go home now. Once we got 2989 02:52:33.040 --> 02:52:36.399 to our suite, she moved around the room with confidence. 2990 02:52:36.680 --> 02:52:39.120 Do you like it? I picked this out for you. 2991 02:52:39.440 --> 02:52:42.200 I haven't worn something like this in years, and it 2992 02:52:42.319 --> 02:52:46.000 feels good.

You should freshen up before joining me. I 2993 02:52:46.120 --> 02:52:50.159 did just that. When I returned, she was already in bed, 2994 02:52:50.200 --> 02:52:53.399 and I joined her, surprised by the warmth beside me. 2995 02:52:53.840 --> 02:52:57.479 I've missed being close. I know I've been teasing, but 2996 02:52:57.559 --> 02:52:59.319 I want to make it up to you when the 2997 02:52:59.360 --> 02:53:02.680 time is. I woke up feeling a wave of affection. 2998 02:53:03.159 --> 02:53:08.040 She smiled, her eyes sparkling with familiarity. Oh good, you're awake. 2999 02:53:08.319 --> 02:53:12.319 Remember last night and my promise. I think I'm ready now, 3000 02:53:12.760 --> 02:53:15.760 just be gentle at first. It's been a while. Be 3001 02:53:15.920 --> 02:53:20.200 with me, Stevie. We shared tender moments together, smiling and 3002 02:53:20.319 --> 02:53:23.799 laughing as we cherished our time with one another. Thank you, 3003 02:53:24.120 --> 02:53:27.520 Stevie for making me feel whole again. Let's take a 3004 02:53:27.600 --> 02:53:30.959 shower and see if two old friends can reconnect. We 3005 02:53:31.079 --> 02:53:33.920 found we still had the energy and joy to create 3006 02:53:34.079 --> 02:53:37.959 beautiful moments together. After a refreshing shower and a meal, 3007 02:53:38.200 --> 02:53:41.399 we spent the evening in each other's company, drifting into 3008 02:53:41.440 --> 02:53:44.200 peaceful sleep. I woke up to the sound of the 3009 02:53:44.280 --> 02:53:47.319 shower running and her humming a happy tune. I got 3010 02:53:47.440 --> 02:53:51.520 up and wandered into the bathroom. Good morning, don't even 3011 02:53:51.600 --> 02:53:55.360 think about joining me in here. My little kitty isn't 3012 02:53:55.360 --> 02:53:58.760 feeling well and I think I need your help with breakfast. 3013 02:53:58.959 --> 02:54:02.479 Could you please order for us? I did. She came out, 3014 02:54:02.520 --> 02:54:05.159 wrapped in a towel and ate like she hadn't had 3015 02:54:05.200 --> 02:54:08.719 a meal in ages. After finishing, she stood and let 3016 02:54:08.719 --> 02:54:12.559 the towel drop, revealing a matching outfit and light, sky blue. 3017 02:54:12.840 --> 02:54:15.920 Take a picture what I want you to take a 3018 02:54:15.959 --> 02:54:20.399 picture of me, several pictures from different angles. I want 3019 02:54:20.440 --> 02:54:22.760 you to look at these photos in the next few 3020 02:54:22.879 --> 02:54:26.079 days to remember that this really happened. I took many 3021 02:54:26.159 --> 02:54:29.639 pictures as she posed and smiled. Then she asked me 3022 02:54:29.799 --> 02:54:32.719 to take off my shirt for her photos. She took 3023 02:54:32.760 --> 02:54:35.959 a close up shot. We shared a warm moment before 3024 02:54:36.000 --> 02:54:38.920 she stepped back. It's time to get dressed and go 3025 02:54:39.040 --> 02:54:42.079 back to our routines. I need to head home, and 3026 02:54:42.200 --> 02:54:46.799 you have your next store to manage. Saying goodbye felt bittersweet. 3027 02:54:47.040 --> 02:54:49.680 It seemed like it might be the last time we 3028 02:54:49.719 --> 02:54:53.760 saw each other. Don't call email me. This way you 3029 02:54:53.840 --> 02:54:56.719 can take your time to express your thoughts and say 3030 02:54:56.760 --> 02:54:59.760 what you really mean instead of rushing it. Whatever you 3031 02:54:59.760 --> 02:55:02.639 say will be out there forever, so make sure it's 3032 02:55:02.680 --> 02:55:06.479 something you won't regret. I realized she was right. Writing 3033 02:55:06.600 --> 02:55:10.040 it down would make it last forever. Sharing feelings in 3034 02:55:10.079 --> 02:55:13.040 a tender moment is one thing, but putting them in 3035 02:55:13.079 --> 02:55:18.040 writing is another. We started cautiously talking lightly about our lives. 3036 02:55:18.360 --> 02:55:21.200 She told me about the properties she listed and the 3037 02:55:21.280 --> 02:55:24.840 social events she needed to attend. I emailed her from 3038 02:55:24.879 --> 02:55:29.159 different places I visited, sharing the challenges I faced. I 3039 02:55:29.280 --> 02:55:32.280 sent her a picture of Miguel's new baby, a boy 3040 02:55:32.360 --> 02:55:36.280 named Michael Stephen after his best friend. She didn't reply 3041 02:55:36.479 --> 02:55:39.399 for a few days. When she did, her message was 3042 02:55:39.479 --> 02:55:43.840 filled with emotion. He's a beautiful boy, born to loving parents. 3043 02:55:44.079 --> 02:55:47.079 I'm sure he will have a wonderful life, especially with 3044 02:55:47.239 --> 02:55:51.040 Uncle Steve and Uncle Michael looking out for him. Sometimes 3045 02:55:51.040 --> 02:55:54.040 I think about my biggest regret, not having a child 3046 02:55:54.079 --> 02:55:57.399 with you. Mikey speaks highly of you, mentioning how you 3047 02:55:57.479 --> 02:56:00.360 took care of a child that wasn't yours when his 3048 02:56:00.440 --> 02:56:04.040 birth mother left. I wonder if having a child together 3049 02:56:04.079 --> 02:56:07.000 would have changed things. I hope I would have been 3050 02:56:07.040 --> 02:56:09.879 a good mother, but I can't know for sure. She 3051 02:56:10.079 --> 02:56:13.280 shared her feelings for a while before wrapping up. I 3052 02:56:13.440 --> 02:56:17.399 need to go now. I feel very overwhelmed. I want 3053 02:56:17.440 --> 02:56:20.520 you to know before I leave. I love you. I've 3054 02:56:20.600 --> 02:56:24.680 always loved you, even when I tried to tell myself otherwise. 3055 02:56:25.000 --> 02:56:28.040 I loved Bob too. He still has a piece of 3056 02:56:28.120 --> 02:56:30.840 my heart even as I share it with you. It 3057 02:56:30.879 --> 02:56:33.360 took me most of the night to write my reply. 3058 02:56:33.840 --> 02:56:37.000 I never stopped loving you, even when I was hurt 3059 02:56:37.079 --> 02:56:39.760 by what happened when you showed up that day. I 3060 02:56:39.920 --> 02:56:42.959

ran away because I knew if I stayed, you'd find 3061 02:56:42.959 --> 02:56:45.799 a way back into my heart, and I was scared 3062 02:56:45.840 --> 02:56:49.120 of being hurt again. Maybe that was a mistake, but 3063 02:56:49.159 --> 02:56:52.920 we both weren't thinking clearly. Maybe it was for the best. 3064 02:56:53.239 --> 02:56:56.239 I wouldn't have had Sandy and you wouldn't have had Bob. 3065 02:56:56.559 --> 02:56:59.920 Maybe loving them helped us learn about true love. It's 3066 02:57:00.200 --> 02:57:03.159 only been a couple of weeks, but I really miss you. 3067 02:57:03.440 --> 02:57:06.639 Clear your weekend and meet me at the cabin Friday morning. 3068 02:57:06.879 --> 02:57:11.479 Plan to stay until Tuesday. If that doesn't work, I understand. 3069 02:57:11.799 --> 02:57:15.799 Don't expect a weekend of romance. We have Friday, but 3070 02:57:15.959 --> 02:57:19.000 most of the family is coming on Saturday. I know 3071 02:57:19.120 --> 02:57:21.639 you've met many of them, but this will be your 3072 02:57:21.680 --> 02:57:24.840 formal introduction. Think of it as a preview of what 3073 02:57:25.000 --> 02:57:27.879 to expect if we'd become a couple. I didn't hear 3074 02:57:28.040 --> 02:57:31.799 back for eighteen hours. Be there by nine. We need 3075 02:57:31.799 --> 02:57:34.840 to open the windows and go to the store for supplies, 3076 02:57:35.040 --> 02:57:39.760 including probane and charcoal. I'm really excited about this. I 3077 02:57:39.920 --> 02:57:43.319 called her. I have a better idea. I'll be passing 3078 02:57:43.440 --> 02:57:45.840 by you to get there, So why don't you get 3079 02:57:45.840 --> 02:57:48.600 your things ready and I'll pick you up around seven. 3080 02:57:48.879 --> 02:57:51.760 We can grab breakfast and pick up supplies on the way, 3081 02:57:52.040 --> 02:57:56.440 so when we arrive we can relax. She sighed, great idea. 3082 02:57:56.760 --> 02:58:00.440 I could use some relaxation right now. She was ready 3083 02:58:00.520 --> 02:58:04.600 and waiting with her bag. She looked different, dressed in jeans, 3084 02:58:04.719 --> 02:58:07.719 a T shirt, and sneakers. Her hair was in a 3085 02:58:07.799 --> 02:58:11.600 messy ponytail, reminding Meal of when we first started dating. 3086 02:58:11.840 --> 02:58:15.520 The memories flooded back. Kara gave me a friendly hug. 3087 02:58:15.879 --> 02:58:19.280 I'm really looking forward to this weekend, but right now 3088 02:58:19.360 --> 02:58:23.239 I'm starving. She suggested a small cafe that was well 3089 02:58:23.280 --> 02:58:26.559 known for its breakfast. I chose a classic meal, but 3090 02:58:26.680 --> 02:58:29.799 she went for a spinach and goat cheese omelet with fruit. 3091 02:58:30.079 --> 02:58:32.799 When she offered me a bite, I wished I had 3092 02:58:32.879 --> 02:58:36.520 chosen differently. She noticed the back of the suv I 3093 02:58:36.600 --> 02:58:40.920 rented was almost empty. I'm surprised you own grocery stores. 3094 02:58:41.280 --> 02:58:44.600 I thought it would be full. I believe in buying local, 3095 02:58:44.879 --> 02:58:48.600 a habit from my farming days. There's a farmer's market 3096 02:58:48.760 --> 02:58:52.079 on the way that's opened today. I want to stop there, 3097 02:58:52.399 --> 02:58:55.719 and there's a little grocery just a few miles further. 3098 02:58:56.079 --> 02:58:59.799 I checked online, and it has an excellent meat department. 3099 02:59:00.120 --> 02:59:03.600 You're not in a hurry, are you, Para smiled, I'm 3100 02:59:03.680 --> 02:59:06.920 on vacation. I didn't mind how long it took us 3101 02:59:06.920 --> 02:59:10.440 to get there. We traveled, enjoying the view and discussing 3102 02:59:10.559 --> 02:59:13.920 various things. The market was quite large, and I would 3103 02:59:13.959 --> 02:59:16.799 have stayed longer if it weren't for Kara. I bought 3104 02:59:16.840 --> 02:59:20.159 most of my items from an older man in his sixties. 3105 02:59:20.559 --> 02:59:23.840 He grew his food without chemicals and shared his knowledge, 3106 02:59:24.120 --> 02:59:28.360 suggesting recipes and talking about nutrition. I could see myself 3107 02:59:28.360 --> 02:59:31.440 in his place twenty years from now, working full time 3108 02:59:31.520 --> 02:59:34.639 in a factory and farming part time, if life had 3109 02:59:34.719 --> 02:59:38.360 gone a different way. His wife joined him before we left. 3110 02:59:38.719 --> 02:59:42.079 She was small, with thick white hair. The love between 3111 02:59:42.120 --> 02:59:45.440 them was obvious, and he proudly mentioned they were celebrating 3112 02:59:45.479 --> 02:59:50.600 their thirty seventh anniversary soon, a remarkable milestone. Kara liked 3113 02:59:50.639 --> 02:59:53.879 the little grocery store. It wasn't much bigger than my 3114 02:59:54.000 --> 02:59:57.760 first one, but it was neat, clean and well organized. 3115 02:59:58.159 --> 03:00:01.000 She had made a list on her phone while we traveled, 3116 03:00:01.079 --> 03:00:04.040 and as I pushed the cart, she checked things off. 3117 03:00:04.399 --> 03:00:07.760 In the end, we needed another cart just for the meat. 3118 03:00:08.040 --> 03:00:11.040 The store owner, who was also the butcher, chatted with 3119 03:00:11.159 --> 03:00:14.040 us as he filled our order and seemed surprised by 3120 03:00:14.079 --> 03:00:16.799 how much we wanted. This is a lot of food 3121 03:00:16.879 --> 03:00:19.559 for just you and your husband, he said to Kara. 3122 03:00:19.840 --> 03:00:23.000 She smiled back, Oh, we have the kids and grand 3123 03:00:23.079 --> 03:00:26.319 kids coming, along with a few friends and the grandmother's. 3124 03:00:26.680 --> 03:00:29.639 We might need to come back since this group loves 3125 03:00:29.680 --> 03:00:32.799 to eat. I smiled as the owner and his wife 3126 03:00:32.840 --> 03:00:36.159 wished us a good vacation. We had probably spent more 3127 03:00:36.200 --> 03:00:39.639 than a few of his

regular customers. Although the store 3128 03:00:39.799 --> 03:00:42.760 was tidy, it looked a bit worn. I asked if 3129 03:00:42.760 --> 03:00:45.879 it was a family business, and the wife confirmed it was. 3130 03:00:46.319 --> 03:00:49.600 It was started by my great grandfather. I bought my 3131 03:00:49.680 --> 03:00:53.040 brother and sister out when my father passed, and Ralph 3132 03:00:53.120 --> 03:00:55.600 and I have run it et her since. I guess 3133 03:00:55.600 --> 03:00:58.680 we'll keep it going until we retire and decide to 3134 03:00:58.760 --> 03:01:02.920 close unless someone buys it. Our kids have good jobs 3135 03:01:02.959 --> 03:01:06.600 and aren't interested in running a small grocery store out here. 3136 03:01:06.920 --> 03:01:10.000 We've thought about selling, but it's hard to let it go. 3137 03:01:10.440 --> 03:01:13.000 It will be tough when we do, but that's how 3138 03:01:13.040 --> 03:01:16.280 it is. It's a shame. Really, this is a great 3139 03:01:16.319 --> 03:01:19.319 spot and there's a lot of potential here. We were 3140 03:01:19.399 --> 03:01:21.840 less than half an hour from the cabin. After we 3141 03:01:22.000 --> 03:01:25.319 unpacked the groceries, Kara looked at me with a grin. 3142 03:01:25.600 --> 03:01:30.479 You're thinking about it, aren't you? About what buying them out? Well, 3143 03:01:30.600 --> 03:01:33.639 it is a good location. If the store closes, it 3144 03:01:33.760 --> 03:01:36.319 might leave a gap for food in the area, and 3145 03:01:36.479 --> 03:01:39.639 you know how much I dislike that. Once we had 3146 03:01:39.719 --> 03:01:42.920 everything put away, we walked down to the dock, took 3147 03:01:42.959 --> 03:01:45.680 off our shoes and let our toes touch the water. 3148 03:01:45.959 --> 03:01:49.319 Looking out over the little lake, I said, I still 3149 03:01:49.399 --> 03:01:52.639 can't believe this is mine. I never thought I would 3150 03:01:52.639 --> 03:01:55.959 own something this nice. It feels a bit wrong that 3151 03:01:56.040 --> 03:02:00.479 it sits empty so often. Don't think too much about it, honey, 3152 03:02:00.680 --> 03:02:03.760 you deserve this as your family grows. I doubt it 3153 03:02:03.799 --> 03:02:07.479 will stay unused for long. Oh. She jumped and pulled 3154 03:02:07.520 --> 03:02:10.680 her feet out of the water. Something bit me. I 3155 03:02:10.799 --> 03:02:13.920 looked down at the clear water. A school of fish 3156 03:02:14.040 --> 03:02:17.040 was swimming around, and they must have mistaken her pale 3157 03:02:17.120 --> 03:02:20.879 toes for food. Relax, it's just a bunch of fish 3158 03:02:20.920 --> 03:02:24.440 that thought your toes looked interesting. I wonder what kind 3159 03:02:24.520 --> 03:02:27.479 of fish are in here? Caronneled down to look at 3160 03:02:27.520 --> 03:02:31.360 the fish. The original owner put three hundred catfish, three 3161 03:02:31.479 --> 03:02:34.520 hundred base and five hundred crappie in when he built 3162 03:02:34.559 --> 03:02:37.479 the lake. That was eight years ago, and I doubt 3163 03:02:37.520 --> 03:02:40.280 and once fished it more than a few times. That 3164 03:02:40.559 --> 03:02:43.559 was enough to get us back into the SUV. I 3165 03:02:43.680 --> 03:02:47.120 had seen a bait shop just past the grocery store. 3166 03:02:47.440 --> 03:02:50.000 There was a big lake ten miles up the highway 3167 03:02:50.079 --> 03:02:52.879 and the shop was well stoked. I talked it over 3168 03:02:52.959 --> 03:02:55.799 with the owner and ended up buying six five foot 3169 03:02:55.840 --> 03:02:59.280 fishing rods with zip code, thirty three reels, three you 3170 03:02:59.319 --> 03:03:02.920 open faced combos, and two bait cast her setups, along 3171 03:03:03.000 --> 03:03:06.079 with two tackle boxes filled with everything we would need. 3172 03:03:06.360 --> 03:03:09.600 I also got a small styrofoam cooler and filled it 3173 03:03:09.639 --> 03:03:12.399 with cups of worms. Then it was back to the 3174 03:03:12.440 --> 03:03:16.239 grocery store for chicken livers. The owner smiled when I 3175 03:03:16.360 --> 03:03:19.280 told him what I wanted and asked me to wait 3176 03:03:19.319 --> 03:03:22.319 a moment before coming back with a large box. This 3177 03:03:22.479 --> 03:03:25.760 has gizzards and hearts packed in a special sauce. The 3178 03:03:25.840 --> 03:03:29.200 fish will hold onto these longer. If you didn't buy 3179 03:03:29.280 --> 03:03:32.200 any from the bait's shop. You might want to grab 3180 03:03:32.239 --> 03:03:35.959 a couple of bags of shrimp. I picked up five pounds, 3181 03:03:36.360 --> 03:03:39.520 really glad I had room in the cooler. We cooked 3182 03:03:39.520 --> 03:03:42.639 a simple meal and ate on the patio under torches 3183 03:03:42.680 --> 03:03:45.920 filled with oil to keep the bugs away. Cleaning up 3184 03:03:46.000 --> 03:03:48.959 didn't take long, and then she disappeared for a moment, 3185 03:03:49.239 --> 03:03:52.600 returning with a bottle of wine and two glasses. I 3186 03:03:52.680 --> 03:03:55.840 had mostly been a beer drinker, but she had learned 3187 03:03:55.879 --> 03:03:58.799 a lot about wine during her travels and encouraged me 3188 03:03:58.959 --> 03:04:02.000 to try new things. We kept a nice selection of 3189 03:04:02.040 --> 03:04:05.239 wine in our kitchen pantry and usually ended the day 3190 03:04:05.319 --> 03:04:09.760 with a glass. I took a sip, enjoying the taste Australian. 3191 03:04:10.120 --> 03:04:15.040 She looked surprised. How did you know? I shrugged. Lucky guess, 3192 03:04:15.040 --> 03:04:18.719 she smiled, If you say so, I think, my dear ex, 3193 03:04:18.959 --> 03:04:22.239 that you've become much more refined as you have grown older. 3194 03:04:22.520 --> 03:04:26.079 You know you don't have to act so surprised. Change 3195 03:04:26.200 --> 03:04:29.000 is part of life. I wouldn't want you to think 3196 03:04:29.079 --> 03:04:32.040 I was still stuck

in the past. She used to 3197 03:04:32.120 --> 03:04:35.120 tease me about my old habits in a fun way. 3198 03:04:35.479 --> 03:04:38.840 Her eyes looked a bit wistful. I miss those days. 3199 03:04:39.239 --> 03:04:42.719 I've missed our simpler moments. I'm afraid it's a bit 3200 03:04:42.879 --> 03:04:47.879 different now, even so I appreciate it. Her smile was sincere. 3201 03:04:48.159 --> 03:04:51.040 A full moon was rising, and she convinced me to 3202 03:04:51.120 --> 03:04:53.840 walk down to the lake to watch the reflection as 3203 03:04:53.879 --> 03:04:56.760 it grew brighter. She held my hand all the way. 3204 03:04:57.120 --> 03:04:59.479 I remember a time when we wouldn't have let this 3205 03:04:59.680 --> 03:05:03.319 chance slip away. We would have been enjoying the cool water. 3206 03:05:03.440 --> 03:05:07.200 By now. She sat down, drawing her knees up, gazing 3207 03:05:07.239 --> 03:05:10.239 across the water. I took off my shorts and tea, 3208 03:05:10.319 --> 03:05:14.239 soon standing beside her. She looked back at me with surprise. 3209 03:05:14.600 --> 03:05:17.479 I gently pulled her up, encouraging her to join me. 3210 03:05:17.840 --> 03:05:21.280 Before long, she was ready to embrace the moment. She 3211 03:05:21.360 --> 03:05:24.200 reached for me and playfully. I lifted her over my 3212 03:05:24.319 --> 03:05:27.399 shoulder and ran toward the end of the dock. Kara 3213 03:05:27.479 --> 03:05:30.079 must have known what I was going to do, because 3214 03:05:30.079 --> 03:05:33.559 she started tapping my back in provst Don't you dare 3215 03:05:33.840 --> 03:05:37.399 I see? Her surprised shout turned into laughter when we 3216 03:05:37.479 --> 03:05:40.479 splashed into the water. I was happy to feel how 3217 03:05:40.520 --> 03:05:42.680 warm it was as I let her go and we 3218 03:05:42.799 --> 03:05:46.920 both came back up to the surface. You scared me. Assay, Chang, 3219 03:05:47.399 --> 03:05:51.120 Let's enjoy the moment, I said with a smile, playfully 3220 03:05:51.120 --> 03:05:54.319 wrapping my arms around her from behind and enjoying our 3221 03:05:54.399 --> 03:05:58.159 time together. I leaned in, giving her gentle kisses on 3222 03:05:58.280 --> 03:06:02.600 her neck, cherishing the connect we shared. She responded happily, 3223 03:06:02.799 --> 03:06:06.399 and we laughed together, enjoying the light hearted moment. Kara 3224 03:06:06.440 --> 03:06:09.799 playfully wrapped her legs around me as we shared some fun. 3225 03:06:10.280 --> 03:06:12.840 Just when I thought the moment couldn't get any better, 3226 03:06:13.159 --> 03:06:15.680 she leaned back and let out a joyful laugh that 3227 03:06:15.760 --> 03:06:19.200 bounced off the lake, filling the air with warmth and happiness. 3228 03:06:19.479 --> 03:06:23.360 After a brief pause, she softly rubbed my chest and said, 3229 03:06:23.559 --> 03:06:26.920 I am glad you're not sitting around all day. Now 3230 03:06:27.040 --> 03:06:30.159 help me out. We need to get ready for bed. 3231 03:06:30.559 --> 03:06:34.040 The family is coming early and we must have breakfast ready. 3232 03:06:34.239 --> 03:06:36.719 I lifted her out of the water, relieved that I 3233 03:06:36.719 --> 03:06:39.680 could manage it. When I set her down, she smiled 3234 03:06:39.719 --> 03:06:42.920 at me. We showered at the outdoor stall by the pool, 3235 03:06:43.120 --> 03:06:46.440 making sure we felt fresh for the day ahead. Afterward, 3236 03:06:46.840 --> 03:06:49.680 we went upstairs, where she put on a lovely dress 3237 03:06:49.760 --> 03:06:52.360 and sat at the bedroom mirror working on her hair. 3238 03:06:52.600 --> 03:06:56.159 I took her brush and stood behind her, gently untangling 3239 03:06:56.200 --> 03:06:59.680 the stubborn knots until her hair was smooth. She closed 3240 03:06:59.680 --> 03:07:02.920 her eye and contentment, and I admired her calm face. 3241 03:07:03.200 --> 03:07:05.600 Though she wasn't as young as she used to be, 3242 03:07:06.040 --> 03:07:10.280 she was still very attractive, especially when she looked so relaxed. 3243 03:07:10.559 --> 03:07:14.479 We cuddled together, hoping to enjoy our time, but soon 3244 03:07:14.559 --> 03:07:17.440 the day caught up with us and we fell asleep quickly. 3245 03:07:17.719 --> 03:07:20.680 We woke up, still snug against each other. When her 3246 03:07:20.719 --> 03:07:23.920 phone alarm rang at five forty five a m. She 3247 03:07:24.120 --> 03:07:27.920 stretched against me before giggling and turning off the alarm. 3248 03:07:28.040 --> 03:07:31.639 Rolling over, she flashed me a warm smile and jumped 3249 03:07:31.680 --> 03:07:35.200 out of bed, playfully nudging me get up. We need 3250 03:07:35.239 --> 03:07:38.920 to shower and start breakfast. I'm not quite ready. How 3251 03:07:38.959 --> 03:07:41.639 about I text them to stop at mc donald's so 3252 03:07:41.719 --> 03:07:45.200 we can enjoy a little longer. She giggled and pulled 3253 03:07:45.239 --> 03:07:48.280 down the covers. Come on, if you're a good boy, 3254 03:07:48.479 --> 03:07:51.239 I'll let you help wash up. That did the trick, 3255 03:07:51.319 --> 03:07:53.559 and I got out of bed to help her. She 3256 03:07:53.719 --> 03:07:57.840 playfully swatted my hands away and hopped out. I followed, 3257 03:07:58.120 --> 03:08:02.159 but much more slowly, and by seven we were cooking. Luckily, 3258 03:08:02.440 --> 03:08:06.719 our family started arriving before we finished. Micky and Ashley 3259 03:08:06.840 --> 03:08:10.799 were first, followed closely by Miguel, Michael, their wives, and 3260 03:08:10.879 --> 03:08:14.959 their kids, including the little one. Ashley immediately picked up 3261 03:08:15.000 --> 03:08:18.440 the baby. Then Amy and Alice came with their families. 3262 03:08:18.719 --> 03:08:22.399 Amy's oldest ran up to me, saying, Poppy, I'm hungry. 3263 03:08:22.680 --> 03:08:25.479 All the kids called me Poppy, so it seemed I 3264 03:08:25.639 -->

03:08:29.920 was like a grandfather to them. Next, Veronica and Saul arrived, 3265 03:08:30.040 --> 03:08:34.520 bringing a surprise Mickey's little sister. I'd only seen her 3266 03:08:34.600 --> 03:08:38.040 in old photos. Now she was twenty and looked like 3267 03:08:38.120 --> 03:08:41.559 a prettier version of her mom. She seemed a bit shy. 3268 03:08:41.840 --> 03:08:44.959 Grandma Vasquez was with them, and soon we had her 3269 03:08:44.959 --> 03:08:47.719 settled in a comfortable chair. While we all showed our 3270 03:08:47.760 --> 03:08:51.680 respect to her, the ladies moved me aside and started helping. 3271 03:08:52.079 --> 03:08:54.799 Soon the kids who could feed themselves were in the 3272 03:08:54.840 --> 03:08:58.239 breakfast area, while the adults gathered around the bar and 3273 03:08:58.319 --> 03:09:02.600 a big dining table. I mounted sixteen adults and nine children. 3274 03:09:02.959 --> 03:09:05.920 The noise was lively, and I wondered what Kara thought 3275 03:09:05.959 --> 03:09:08.840 of it all. I found her at the table feeding 3276 03:09:08.920 --> 03:09:11.879 the two month old bottle while her mother ate. She 3277 03:09:12.040 --> 03:09:15.159 looked up at me and smiled. I could see tears 3278 03:09:15.200 --> 03:09:18.600 in her eyes, but she didn't seem sad. I sat 3279 03:09:18.680 --> 03:09:21.799 down next to her and gently rubbed the baby's head. 3280 03:09:22.040 --> 03:09:25.799 He gurgled and cooed. After finishing his bottle. Kara lifted 3281 03:09:25.840 --> 03:09:28.440 him up and walked him a bit until he burped. 3282 03:09:28.799 --> 03:09:32.360 Then she placed him in the basinette. After breakfast, once 3283 03:09:32.399 --> 03:09:36.079 the kitchen was clean, everyone went outside to explore for 3284 03:09:36.120 --> 03:09:40.000 the first time. I really appreciated my wealth being able 3285 03:09:40.079 --> 03:09:43.200 to provide moments like this for my family. We had 3286 03:09:43.200 --> 03:09:45.520 to keep a close eye on the kids when we 3287 03:09:45.600 --> 03:09:48.440 went down to the lake. Some wanted to jump in 3288 03:09:48.559 --> 03:09:52.319 right away. Little Sea, as Amy's daughter was called after 3289 03:09:52.399 --> 03:09:56.399 her grandmother. Celia, ended up between Kara and me. At first, 3290 03:09:56.479 --> 03:09:59.360 she was holding my hand, but soon she reached for 3291 03:09:59.479 --> 03:10:03.079 Kara's tak Kara didn't mind at all. The girl was 3292 03:10:03.079 --> 03:10:06.559 a seven year old bundle of energy and endless questions. 3293 03:10:06.840 --> 03:10:09.840 Things were going well until she asked, are you going 3294 03:10:09.959 --> 03:10:13.879 to be my new grandma? Kara smiled slightly before answering, 3295 03:10:14.239 --> 03:10:16.639 I don't know yet, but I would love that if 3296 03:10:16.639 --> 03:10:20.479 it's possible. Mommy says, you are going to be everyone 3297 03:10:20.600 --> 03:10:24.319 said so in the car, I hope so. You seem nice. 3298 03:10:24.719 --> 03:10:27.959 I glanced around and saw that everyone was either busy 3299 03:10:28.000 --> 03:10:31.040 with the children or avoiding eye contact, but they couldn't 3300 03:10:31.120 --> 03:10:35.000 hide their smiles. Little Sulia soon got distracted when she 3301 03:10:35.120 --> 03:10:39.280 spotted some fish fishies. Yes, sweetie, the lake is full 3302 03:10:39.399 --> 03:10:42.719 of them. Maybe we can go fishing this afternoon if 3303 03:10:42.760 --> 03:10:46.000 you want. She looked at Kara with wide eyes. Do 3304 03:10:46.040 --> 03:10:50.000 you know how to fish? Daddy watches fishing shows sometimes 3305 03:10:50.079 --> 03:10:53.239 and I watch them too. Will you teach me? Kara 3306 03:10:53.319 --> 03:10:57.319 picked her up and hugged her. Yes, darling, your grandpa 3307 03:10:57.360 --> 03:10:59.440 and I will teach you if you promise to be 3308 03:10:59.520 --> 03:11:03.280 a good girl today. Celia grinned, knowing that I couldn't 3309 03:11:03.360 --> 03:11:06.239 resist her charm. She could be a little naughty the 3310 03:11:06.280 --> 03:11:08.600 rest of the day and I would still want to 3311 03:11:08.639 --> 03:11:12.159 teach her. She looked at Kara excitedly. I want you 3312 03:11:12.280 --> 03:11:16.200 to teach me, Grandma, willy you. Kara felt a rush 3313 03:11:16.239 --> 03:11:19.600 of emotion as she hugged the girl close. After putting 3314 03:11:19.600 --> 03:11:22.680 her down, She promised to teach her and then walked 3315 03:11:22.719 --> 03:11:26.200 off into the woods. Amy smiled at me. We're quite 3316 03:11:26.239 --> 03:11:30.479 a handful, aren't we a little, okay, a lot. Please 3317 03:11:30.520 --> 03:11:33.399 tell the family this is just between Celia and me. 3318 03:11:33.799 --> 03:11:36.639 We'll take our time or let it be just memories. 3319 03:11:37.040 --> 03:11:40.959 Now spread the word fishing lessons for anyone interested. At 3320 03:11:41.000 --> 03:11:44.719 six tonight, I walked off searching for Kara and found 3321 03:11:44.760 --> 03:11:47.520 her in a meadow I didn't know was on the property, 3322 03:11:47.719 --> 03:11:50.959 sitting beside a small stream. She was sitting with her 3323 03:11:51.000 --> 03:11:54.760 knees hugged to her chest, staring into space. I sat 3324 03:11:54.799 --> 03:11:58.799 next to her, quiet and still. About fifteen minutes later, 3325 03:11:59.159 --> 03:12:02.440 she broke the sign silence. You know I wanted kids. 3326 03:12:02.760 --> 03:12:06.479 I especially wanted kids with you. Later, when I was 3327 03:12:06.520 --> 03:12:09.559 with Bob, I thought about it, but time passed and 3328 03:12:09.680 --> 03:12:12.920 we just didn't have any. I see your big family, 3329 03:12:13.200 --> 03:12:16.000 and even though they aren't related to you by blood, 3330 03:12:16.239 --> 03:12:19.440 they love you. Little Sullia sees you as a grandfather, 3331 03:12:19.639 --> 03:12:22.600 and you love her just the same. I realized that 3332

03:12:22.680 --> 03:12:25.079 if I care for you, I need to be part 3333 03:12:25.120 --> 03:12:27.639 of their lives too. What if they don't like me. 3334 03:12:28.040 --> 03:12:31.120 I believe I can accept them, but will they accept me. 3335 03:12:31.479 --> 03:12:34.440 I wrapped my arm around her and pulled her close. 3336 03:12:34.840 --> 03:12:37.719 You know, one of the last things Sullia told me 3337 03:12:37.920 --> 03:12:40.280 was to make sure I didn't let you slip away. 3338 03:12:40.719 --> 03:12:44.440 That's a big compliment in my world. Mamma Chan and 3339 03:12:44.559 --> 03:12:48.120 grand Ma Fey feel the same way. You make me happy, 3340 03:12:48.360 --> 03:12:51.399 and that's all they ever wanted for me. She tried 3341 03:12:51.399 --> 03:12:54.559 to hold back her tears, but they were close to spilling. 3342 03:12:54.840 --> 03:12:58.319 I stood up and offered my hand. Let's go. The 3343 03:12:58.440 --> 03:13:01.040 kids were getting ready to jump ump into the pool, 3344 03:13:01.120 --> 03:13:03.920 and I was getting lunch ready on the grill. I 3345 03:13:04.040 --> 03:13:06.440 knew I would need all the help I could get. 3346 03:13:06.680 --> 03:13:09.239 When we got back to the house, I noticed she 3347 03:13:09.360 --> 03:13:12.200 hadn't let go of my hand during the walk. It 3348 03:13:12.319 --> 03:13:16.399 felt natural. Everyone had changed into their swimsuits, and soon 3349 03:13:16.479 --> 03:13:19.799 the pool was filled with happy kids and adults. Kara 3350 03:13:19.920 --> 03:13:23.000 vanished for a moment, returning in a cover up. I 3351 03:13:23.120 --> 03:13:25.879 expected to see O one piece, but when she took 3352 03:13:25.920 --> 03:13:29.000 it off, she wore a stylish bikini. It was more 3353 03:13:29.040 --> 03:13:32.879 modest than some, but she looked comfortable in it. Grandma 3354 03:13:32.959 --> 03:13:36.600 Vi relaxed on a lounge chair under an umbrella, enjoying 3355 03:13:36.639 --> 03:13:40.120 the sight of everyone playing. Mama Chen joined her briefly 3356 03:13:40.239 --> 03:13:43.559 before the kids eagerly invited her into the water. She 3357 03:13:43.719 --> 03:13:46.760 showed a beauty that shon through age. Even in a 3358 03:13:46.799 --> 03:13:50.799 one piece suit, she looked great. Soon she was splashing 3359 03:13:50.840 --> 03:13:53.959 around with the kids, encouraging Kara to join the fun. 3360 03:13:54.319 --> 03:13:57.639 Mickey and Michael were busy at the grill, cooking burghers 3361 03:13:57.680 --> 03:14:01.319 and hot dogs, saving the big meal for later. The 3362 03:14:01.440 --> 03:14:04.760 kids happily chowed down and soon started to get tired, 3363 03:14:05.159 --> 03:14:08.280 even the oldest one settling in for a nap. The 3364 03:14:08.399 --> 03:14:12.319 ladies took over cleaning up. The guys walked to the lake. 3365 03:14:12.559 --> 03:14:16.440 Josey looked over it and smiled. I'm sixty years old 3366 03:14:16.479 --> 03:14:20.959 and I've never been fishing.

Me neither, said Jason, Amy's husband. 3367 03:14:21.159 --> 03:14:24.319 But how hard can it be. Michael and Miguel said 3368 03:14:24.360 --> 03:14:27.159 they went to summer camp but never had an interest 3369 03:14:27.200 --> 03:14:32.159 in fishing, explaining it wasn't cool. Micky just smiled, you too, 3370 03:14:32.239 --> 03:14:35.200 can join me. My dad took me fishing a lot 3371 03:14:35.319 --> 03:14:38.920 until he got too busy with work. I miss those days. 3372 03:14:39.360 --> 03:14:42.200 Then he looked at me and laughed, I doubt you'll 3373 03:14:42.200 --> 03:14:45.680 get to fish much, dad, Watching the kids will keep 3374 03:14:45.760 --> 03:14:48.840 you busy. Just then we heard the women laughing, and 3375 03:14:48.920 --> 03:14:51.719 he glanced up the hill. By the way, it looks 3376 03:14:51.840 --> 03:14:55.319 like you found someone special. Everyone laughed, and I felt 3377 03:14:55.399 --> 03:14:58.639 a little shy, which made them laugh even more. They 3378 03:14:58.680 --> 03:15:01.719 all seemed happy about the idea of Kara and me 3379 03:15:01.879 --> 03:15:05.760 being together. You seem happ air, brother. It's nice to 3380 03:15:05.799 --> 03:15:09.040 see you smiling again. I think we should keep her 3381 03:15:09.079 --> 03:15:12.799 around just for that, Dan said with a grin. Thanks 3382 03:15:12.879 --> 03:15:16.000 ever One. But it's not official yet. We have some 3383 03:15:16.159 --> 03:15:19.200 things to figure out. Still. I think it will be 3384 03:15:19.399 --> 03:15:22.600 worth it. We were just kids before, and we've both 3385 03:15:22.639 --> 03:15:26.399 grown up, hopefully for the better. We'll see what happens. 3386 03:15:26.719 --> 03:15:29.479 We walked back up the hill and began setting up 3387 03:15:29.520 --> 03:15:33.079 the tents, five big cabin tents and two smaller ones. 3388 03:15:33.399 --> 03:15:35.680 I got them because there was no way to fit 3389 03:15:35.760 --> 03:15:38.399 all of us into the cabin, even though it was 3390 03:15:38.479 --> 03:15:42.760 quite spacious. The kids were really excited, while the adults 3391 03:15:42.799 --> 03:15:46.479 seemed less eager. After we took a break, little Celia 3392 03:15:46.559 --> 03:15:49.959 pulled on my shorts. Is it time to go fishing? Yet? 3393 03:15:50.239 --> 03:15:53.319 It was only five, but I could see the excited 3394 03:15:53.360 --> 03:15:56.559 faces of the kids and some adults, so I decided 3395 03:15:56.600 --> 03:16:00.360 that was good enough. Yes, it is, sweetheart, ever One, 3396 03:16:00.399 --> 03:16:03.680 grab your chairs and let's go. The kids dashed off 3397 03:16:03.719 --> 03:16:08.000 while the adults walked along bringing chairs, coolers, towels, and 3398 03:16:08.120 --> 03:16:12.000 plenty of wipes. I initially left the fishing rods behind, 3399 03:16:12.280 --> 03:16:15.840 thinking they were too tricky for beginners. That was a mistake. 3400 03:16:16.120 --> 03:16:18.600 I had to go back and get them. I

had 3401 03:16:18.639 --> 03:16:22.600 already prepared them for catching bluegill. I showed them how 3402 03:16:22.680 --> 03:16:26.200 to cast, knowing they would want to practice, and handed 3403 03:16:26.239 --> 03:16:29.680 the rod to Celia. Honey, watch the cork. If it 3404 03:16:29.840 --> 03:16:33.360 goes under, that means you've got a fish. Like now. 3405 03:16:33.680 --> 03:16:37.239 I turned to see her cork had disappeared. Pull back 3406 03:16:37.319 --> 03:16:40.520 and reel it in slowly, keeping the line tight. If 3407 03:16:40.559 --> 03:16:43.920 it gets loose, the fish might get away. Of course, 3408 03:16:44.280 --> 03:16:47.159 I helped hold the rod and guide her. Her happy 3409 03:16:47.239 --> 03:16:50.239 squeal filled the air as we caught a nice bluegill. 3410 03:16:50.479 --> 03:16:53.079 When I told her we could keep it, she was 3411 03:16:53.159 --> 03:16:56.280 so excited. I had been ready for this and set 3412 03:16:56.360 --> 03:16:59.200 up a cooler to keep the fish fresh. The other 3413 03:16:59.319 --> 03:17:02.799 kids were so Mickey and Kara joined in, and soon 3414 03:17:02.879 --> 03:17:05.559 lots of rods were in the water. It was more 3415 03:17:05.639 --> 03:17:08.920 than just fishing. It was a great time. The lake 3416 03:17:09.000 --> 03:17:12.200 hadn't been fished much before, and there were many fish. 3417 03:17:12.440 --> 03:17:16.559 The best moment came when Grandma Vee caught a big catfish. 3418 03:17:16.719 --> 03:17:19.360 I had to get the other rods out because everyone 3419 03:17:19.440 --> 03:17:23.040 wanted to fish, making sure only Mickey or I cast them. 3420 03:17:23.360 --> 03:17:25.959 She watched in awe as her rod bent and the 3421 03:17:26.040 --> 03:17:29.239 line tubbed. What do I do? What do I do? 3422 03:17:29.680 --> 03:17:34.079 She asked, filled with excitement. Keep the line tight, Grandma. 3423 03:17:34.440 --> 03:17:38.280 If it gets loose, reeled it in. Everyone watched closely 3424 03:17:38.479 --> 03:17:41.319 as she pulled the fish up from the water. After that, 3425 03:17:41.719 --> 03:17:44.719 we switched most of the rods over to different hooks 3426 03:17:44.799 --> 03:17:48.200 and bait. Carol was helping Celia, who was eager to 3427 03:17:48.280 --> 03:17:51.479 continue fishing, and they soon let out joyful sounds when 3428 03:17:51.559 --> 03:17:54.479 Celia caught a big one. The fish we caught was 3429 03:17:54.559 --> 03:17:58.719 really big, weighing more than eight pounds. Our cooler was packed, 3430 03:17:58.799 --> 03:18:01.159 and there were two stringers in the water. When we 3431 03:18:01.280 --> 03:18:04.399 finally took a break, we took lots of pictures with 3432 03:18:04.559 --> 03:18:08.440 parents and kids proudly showing off their catches. Kara helped 3433 03:18:08.440 --> 03:18:11.879 Celia because she needed a hand holding hers up. Everyone 3434 03:18:12.000 --> 03:18:14.920 soon went back to get cleaned up while Mickey and 3435 03:18:15.000 -->

03:18:17.760 I took care of the fish. It took us about 3436 03:18:17.760 --> 03:18:20.680 an hour, and we agreed that someone needed some cleaning 3437 03:18:20.799 --> 03:18:24.360 lessons for next time. The fish fry the next day 3438 03:18:24.600 --> 03:18:28.559 was amazing. By ten zero zero, everyone was in bed 3439 03:18:28.600 --> 03:18:31.280 and most of the younger kids were asleep. By eight, 3440 03:18:31.600 --> 03:18:34.920 Kara and I settled down and rested. I woke up 3441 03:18:35.079 --> 03:18:39.719 once and felt something different. I saw Celia nestled between us. 3442 03:18:39.959 --> 03:18:42.920 She must have been scared, so her mother brought her 3443 03:18:42.959 --> 03:18:46.399 to us. She was happily tucked against Kara, who had 3444 03:18:46.440 --> 03:18:49.719 her arms around her. Celia looked so peaceful, with a 3445 03:18:49.760 --> 03:18:53.879 smile on her face as she slept. Soon, Monday afternoon 3446 03:18:54.000 --> 03:18:56.840 came and no one wanted to leave. I felt good 3447 03:18:56.840 --> 03:18:59.719 about my decision to buy the cabin because the kids 3448 03:18:59.760 --> 03:19:03.760 were already looking at their calendars and picking weekends for visits. 3449 03:19:04.000 --> 03:19:07.079 Kara and I had a nice talk on Sunday afternoon 3450 03:19:07.159 --> 03:19:11.239 with Sophia, Micky's sister. At first, she seemed a bit nervous, 3451 03:19:11.399 --> 03:19:14.760 but as the hours went by, she relaxed. She came 3452 03:19:14.879 --> 03:19:17.159 up to us right when we were about to take 3453 03:19:17.200 --> 03:19:20.360 a walk. I wanted to explore more of my property, 3454 03:19:20.440 --> 03:19:23.239 and Kara thought it would be good exercise, so we 3455 03:19:23.399 --> 03:19:27.040 invited Sophia along. We walked for a while and stopped 3456 03:19:27.079 --> 03:19:29.959 at a low ridge that gave us a great view 3457 03:19:30.040 --> 03:19:32.639 of our little lake. I want to thank you for 3458 03:19:32.760 --> 03:19:37.120 everything you've done for me. Micky always has trouble keeping secrets, 3459 03:19:37.399 --> 03:19:39.600 and he told me that you helped pay for my 3460 03:19:39.760 --> 03:19:42.559 sister and me to go to school. When I mentioned 3461 03:19:42.600 --> 03:19:45.840 wanting to go to college and then a scholarship arrived, 3462 03:19:46.200 --> 03:19:48.639 I knew you were behind it. You didn't have to 3463 03:19:48.719 --> 03:19:51.719 help children of someone who had hurt you. For a time, 3464 03:19:51.920 --> 03:19:54.959 I worried that you might want something in return, until 3465 03:19:55.000 --> 03:19:57.239 I realized that the best way to get back at 3466 03:19:57.319 --> 03:19:59.120 us would have been to leave us as we were. 3467 03:19:59.360 --> 03:20:02.079 I can't tell you how grateful I am, and I'm 3468 03:20:02.120 --> 03:20:05.159 sure my sister feels the same. If you ever want 3469 03:20:05.200 --> 03:20:10.000 anything from me, just ask, Actually, there is something I want, 3470 03:20:10.319 --> 03:20:14.239 I said, trying to stay serious. She looked nervous, but 3471 03:20:14.280 --> 03:20:17.079 then I smiled. I want you to come work with 3472 03:20:17.159 --> 03:20:20.600 me after you graduate. It's a family business, and with 3473 03:20:20.639 --> 03:20:24.319 your degree, you would fit perfectly into our nonprofit team. 3474 03:20:24.600 --> 03:20:29.319 Sophia was studying how to create and manage nonprofit organizations. 3475 03:20:29.600 --> 03:20:32.239 I could see her as part of our future. She 3476 03:20:32.440 --> 03:20:36.440 surprised me by getting a bit emotional, even as she smiled. 3477 03:20:36.760 --> 03:20:40.040 I accept, don't be surprised. If you stop by and 3478 03:20:40.120 --> 03:20:43.440 see pictures of Mickey, Ashley, my sister, and you and 3479 03:20:43.559 --> 03:20:48.159 Kara on my desk. Family. I nodded. Family. Then we 3480 03:20:48.319 --> 03:20:51.959 shared a hug. Even though she was nineteen, she walked 3481 03:20:52.000 --> 03:20:55.840 back between us, holding our hands like a child. Sophia 3482 03:20:55.920 --> 03:20:58.639 planned to spend her summers in turning with us until 3483 03:20:58.719 --> 03:21:01.440 she graduated. She would be the ahead of the game 3484 03:21:01.559 --> 03:21:04.680 by the time she started working full time. After we 3485 03:21:04.840 --> 03:21:07.879 watched the last car leave the driveway, Kara pulled me 3486 03:21:08.000 --> 03:21:11.879 back to our room, her excitement clear. I finally sat down, 3487 03:21:12.200 --> 03:21:15.440 feeling a bit worn out. What was that all about? 3488 03:21:15.719 --> 03:21:18.959 That was me showing my commitment. I've fallen back in 3489 03:21:19.079 --> 03:21:22.479 love with you, and I also love your family. I've 3490 03:21:22.559 --> 03:21:26.559 always wanted a big family, and you're offering me that chance. 3491 03:21:26.920 --> 03:21:29.959 I'm giving you three months to think about a proposal, 3492 03:21:30.239 --> 03:21:33.399 or I might rethink our future together. I played with 3493 03:21:33.440 --> 03:21:36.680 her hair, knowing how important this was for her. Good 3494 03:21:36.719 --> 03:21:40.000 thing you tired me out, or I might have hesitated. 3495 03:21:40.399 --> 03:21:43.680 We don't need to wait three months. Let's go ring 3496 03:21:43.799 --> 03:21:47.399 shopping tomorrow. She looked at me, her face lighting up. 3497 03:21:47.680 --> 03:21:51.639 You're sure, Yeah, I'm sure, she smiled at me. So 3498 03:21:51.840 --> 03:21:55.319 am I. But I want at least a six month engagement. 3499 03:21:55.600 --> 03:21:58.840 We'll be living together, and if any problems come up, 3500 03:21:59.040 --> 03:22:01.639 I want to deal with them before we get married. 3501 03:22:02.000 --> 03:22:05.920 Sounds fair. She cuddled back down and soon fell asleep. 3502 03:22:06.120 --> 03:22:08.840 I played with her hair and stared at the ceiling 3503 03:22:08.959 --> 03:22:12.200 for a long

time, wondering what the future would hold. 3504 03:22:12.440 --> 03:22:15.520 It seemed the future would be filled with happiness. After 3505 03:22:15.600 --> 03:22:18.920 we settled into her condo, the best choice for us, 3506 03:22:19.239 --> 03:22:22.840 we moved on with our lives. I continued to travel 3507 03:22:22.920 --> 03:22:25.399 as I opened more stores, and she took care of 3508 03:22:25.440 --> 03:22:29.040 her real estate work. Three months in, after a tough 3509 03:22:29.120 --> 03:22:32.840 ten days separation, she found a solution and sold her 3510 03:22:32.879 --> 03:22:36.360 business to her employees. She could have received more if 3511 03:22:36.360 --> 03:22:39.360 she sold it publicly, but she felt her loyal team 3512 03:22:39.440 --> 03:22:43.120 deserved it. After that, she followed me wherever I went. 3513 03:22:43.479 --> 03:22:46.399 She was a huge help to me. While she didn't 3514 03:22:46.440 --> 03:22:49.840 know much about the grocery business, she was great at 3515 03:22:49.920 --> 03:22:53.159 real estate, so I asked her to handle that side 3516 03:22:53.200 --> 03:22:56.559 of our work. While I negotiated to buy struggling stores, 3517 03:22:56.959 --> 03:23:01.000 she looked for investment opportunities and properties in need of care. 3518 03:23:01.319 --> 03:23:04.319 We were in Detroit, the furthest north I had ever 3519 03:23:04.399 --> 03:23:07.399 been when she came to me with an idea. She 3520 03:23:07.600 --> 03:23:10.520 was filled with excitement as she showed me an area 3521 03:23:10.559 --> 03:23:14.799 of mostly empty or destroyed houses covering nearly eight square blocks. 3522 03:23:15.079 --> 03:23:18.239 I didn't understand her interest until she showed me an 3523 03:23:18.319 --> 03:23:21.799 article on urban farming, which was just starting to grow 3524 03:23:21.879 --> 03:23:24.920 in popularity. The city is willing to give us a 3525 03:23:25.000 --> 03:23:28.680 fantastic deal if we go ahead with my plans. We'll 3526 03:23:28.719 --> 03:23:32.079 clear the old buildings and each block will become a farm. 3527 03:23:32.319 --> 03:23:35.639 We'll run it through our nonprofit, leasing it to trusted 3528 03:23:35.719 --> 03:23:40.040 individuals or groups. We'll provide hands on training and farming 3529 03:23:40.159 --> 03:23:43.159 and business to make sure they succeed. It's good for 3530 03:23:43.280 --> 03:23:47.360 ever one. People get careers instead of just jobs, the 3531 03:23:47.399 --> 03:23:50.520 community gets fresh food at a fair price, and our 3532 03:23:50.600 --> 03:23:54.000 non profit gains from the attention. I didn't start this 3533 03:23:54.120 --> 03:23:56.639 for the attention, but I think it's one of the 3534 03:23:56.680 --> 03:24:01.319 best ideas I've ever heard. Sophie, we'll finish school in 3535 03:24:01.399 --> 03:24:04.600 two months, so let's involve her and make this her 3536 03:24:04.600 --> 03:24:07.760 summer project. We should have some of the blocks ready 3537 03:24:07.799 --> 03:24:11.319 by then. You know you're more than just a pretty face, right, 3538 03:24:11.639 --> 03:24:15.760 she smiled brightly. Thank you. You're not just a wealthy guy. 3539 03:24:16.120 --> 03:24:20.280 You're a fantastic partner. We might have a wonderful future together. 3540 03:24:20.680 --> 03:24:25.120 The family was excited about the engagement. After Kara explained 3541 03:24:25.200 --> 03:24:29.239 the six month rule, they started making wedding plans. Kara 3542 03:24:29.319 --> 03:24:32.239 had been to many fancy weddings and wanted to keep 3543 03:24:32.280 --> 03:24:35.959 this one simple, focusing on family, but she still wanted 3544 03:24:35.959 --> 03:24:39.239 it to be beautiful. Like most couples, we had our 3545 03:24:39.360 --> 03:24:43.159 ups and downs, but nothing too serious. One reason she 3546 03:24:43.280 --> 03:24:46.200 sold her business was so I wouldn't worry about where 3547 03:24:46.239 --> 03:24:49.479 she was. It started to concern me, so I had 3548 03:24:49.520 --> 03:24:51.760 to talk to her. If I ever thought you would 3549 03:24:51.760 --> 03:24:54.920 break my trust, we wouldn't be here talking. If I 3550 03:24:54.959 --> 03:24:59.159 couldn't trust you, there wouldn't be an us. So please relax. 3551 03:24:59.600 --> 03:25:01.879 You don't need to be with me all the time. 3552 03:25:02.360 --> 03:25:05.920 Just know we're here for each other when needed. Where adults, 3553 03:25:06.239 --> 03:25:09.520 let's act like it. One thing we agreed on was 3554 03:25:09.559 --> 03:25:13.319 that August twenty seventh was her day, the anniversary for 3555 03:25:13.440 --> 03:25:16.120 her and Bob. I knew she would visit him to 3556 03:25:16.239 --> 03:25:19.559 lay flowers and remember him. She also knew I would 3557 03:25:19.639 --> 03:25:23.360 visit Sandy on our anniversary for the same reason. We 3558 03:25:23.399 --> 03:25:26.920 both found comfort in each other's company. The next day 3559 03:25:27.239 --> 03:25:30.760 we got married. It was a beautiful and elegant ceremony, 3560 03:25:30.840 --> 03:25:34.399 filled with people who cared about us. Her wedding dress 3561 03:25:34.559 --> 03:25:37.879 was simple yet stunning, making her look much younger. I 3562 03:25:37.959 --> 03:25:41.159 felt I looked nice in my tucks, but a wedding 3563 03:25:41.360 --> 03:25:44.559 is really about the bride. There was a cheerful moment 3564 03:25:44.680 --> 03:25:47.280 when she tossed the bouquet and it landed right in 3565 03:25:47.360 --> 03:25:51.479 Sophia's arms. She looked down and smiled widely. A few 3566 03:25:51.559 --> 03:25:54.920 months earlier, we picked Sophia up from college and her 3567 03:25:55.000 --> 03:25:58.200 roommate answered the door. I was paying for their apartment 3568 03:25:58.600 --> 03:26:01.159 and Sophia was helping her her friend, who was on 3569 03:26:01.239 --> 03:26:04.799 a scholarship and needed support. She had asked Mickey to 3570 03:26:04.840 -->

03:26:07.520 help find her a part time job at the local 3571 03:26:07.600 --> 03:26:11.280 store where Sophia had worked. Sophia covered the costs of 3572 03:26:11.319 --> 03:26:15.680 the apartment, utilities, and groceries, allowing her friend Betty to 3573 03:26:15.760 --> 03:26:19.200 buy nice clothes and have some spending money. The first 3574 03:26:19.280 --> 03:26:22.840 thing Betty said made Kara smile. It's great to finally 3575 03:26:22.879 --> 03:26:26.399 meet Sophia's parents. I was starting to think she made 3576 03:26:26.440 --> 03:26:29.399 you up. Thank you for the week at your private retreat. 3577 03:26:29.680 --> 03:26:33.280 We had an amazing time. I can't wait to go again. 3578 03:26:33.600 --> 03:26:36.399 Sophia had asked for the cabin for a weekend with 3579 03:26:36.479 --> 03:26:39.360 her friends. Kara went up to check that it was 3580 03:26:39.559 --> 03:26:42.440 just the girls, stopping by the local market to stock 3581 03:26:42.559 --> 03:26:46.680 up on supplies. Seven college students need a lot. After 3582 03:26:46.719 --> 03:26:49.559 making sure they were settled and playfully reminding them to 3583 03:26:49.639 --> 03:26:53.200 behave she left. Caara said they came back to school 3584 03:26:53.239 --> 03:26:56.840 with nice hands. The weekend was filled with friendships, and 3585 03:26:56.920 --> 03:26:59.959 while I wasn't sure how Sophia saw herself, I knew 3586 03:27:00.159 --> 03:27:02.600 it didn't matter who she loved, as long as they 3587 03:27:02.639 --> 03:27:06.319 treated her kindly. We were not just picking up Sophia. 3588 03:27:06.559 --> 03:27:09.879 Betty was coming along too. She would be working with 3589 03:27:10.000 --> 03:27:13.479 Sophia on an urban farm project this summer, which would 3590 03:27:13.520 --> 03:27:17.520 look impressive on her resume after graduation. Betty was her 3591 03:27:17.520 --> 03:27:21.120 guest at the wedding. Kara smiled and noted it felt 3592 03:27:21.159 --> 03:27:24.719 like we had gained another daughter. I sighed, we need 3593 03:27:24.760 --> 03:27:28.079 a new chart. The old one is getting old. The 3594 03:27:28.239 --> 03:27:32.079 urban farm program was a big success, with similar projects 3595 03:27:32.120 --> 03:27:36.639 appearing in nearly every major city. After graduating, Sophia traveled 3596 03:27:36.639 --> 03:27:40.440 across the country with our nonprofit, helping others who wanted 3597 03:27:40.440 --> 03:27:43.840 to start similar projects. She took Betty with her, and 3598 03:27:43.920 --> 03:27:46.959 it seemed she had finally made her choice in partners 3599 03:27:47.239 --> 03:27:50.520 as they both wore beautiful rings. A year later, one morning, 3600 03:27:50.760 --> 03:27:54.040 I woke up feeling worn out. My company had grown 3601 03:27:54.120 --> 03:27:56.959 to be the fourth largest food chain in the country, 3602 03:27:57.200 --> 03:28:00.680 with stores in every state. We faced a few challenges 3603 03:28:00.719 --> 03:28:04.000 along the way, leading to the closing of five stores. 3604 03:28:04.239 --> 03:28:07.479 Two were lost due to unfortunate events and we could 3605 03:28:07.479 --> 03:28:10.559 not reopen them. The others didn't do well because of 3606 03:28:10.600 --> 03:28:14.719 a lack of community support and safety, making them easy targets. 3607 03:28:14.959 --> 03:28:17.840 You can't win them all, but it still hurt. I 3608 03:28:18.000 --> 03:28:21.799 gathered my advisers and looked around the room. Dan was 3609 03:28:21.840 --> 03:28:25.120 no longer with us. He passed away from a heart 3610 03:28:25.159 --> 03:28:29.280 attack at seventy three. Grandma Vie also passed peacefully at 3611 03:28:29.280 --> 03:28:32.920 eighty three. She had taken up fishing and often visited 3612 03:28:32.959 --> 03:28:35.559 the cabin. You could find her sitting on the dock 3613 03:28:35.719 --> 03:28:39.319 under an umbrella, fishing rod in hand, with a grandchild 3614 03:28:39.399 --> 03:28:42.159 nearby to keep an eye on her. Most of her 3615 03:28:42.319 --> 03:28:45.399 estate went to Miguel and Connie, while she shared special 3616 03:28:45.440 --> 03:28:48.639 gifts with the family. I received a treasured photo of 3617 03:28:48.680 --> 03:28:51.440 her with the very first fish she had caught. Her 3618 03:28:51.479 --> 03:28:54.559 smile full of joy. A part of her estate was 3619 03:28:54.600 --> 03:28:57.799 given to our nonprofit, as she expressed her hopes for 3620 03:28:57.879 --> 03:29:01.680 future generations through Celia. She was laid to rest next 3621 03:29:01.760 --> 03:29:04.440 to her best friend, and I like to think grand 3622 03:29:04.479 --> 03:29:08.360 Macelia welcomed her warmly. I think I surprised them all 3623 03:29:08.440 --> 03:29:12.159 when I announced my retirement at fifty. Although I would 3624 03:29:12.200 --> 03:29:14.559 still be the chairman of the board, I would no 3625 03:29:14.680 --> 03:29:19.479 longer handle daily tasks. I appointed Mickey as president. Miguel 3626 03:29:19.559 --> 03:29:22.879 and Michael became vice presidents, each in charge of half 3627 03:29:22.959 --> 03:29:26.479 the country. Ashley was also named a vice president in 3628 03:29:26.600 --> 03:29:30.000 charge of marketing. Alice decided to retire to focus on 3629 03:29:30.079 --> 03:29:33.000 her family, but Amy stayed involved in the business and 3630 03:29:33.040 --> 03:29:35.959 received a title as well. Mamma Chen was in her 3631 03:29:36.000 --> 03:29:39.239 sixties and getting ready to retire. After her husband of 3632 03:29:39.319 --> 03:29:42.760 forty years passed away from a heart attack. Their adopted 3633 03:29:42.840 --> 03:29:46.680 children and grandchildren were surprised by his will, which left 3634 03:29:46.719 --> 03:29:49.280 them small gifts with the hope that they would improve 3635 03:29:49.399 --> 03:29:53.159 their communities. Sophia felt this loss deeply because they had 3636 03:29:53.200 --> 03:29:56.479 always

treated her kindly and she had spent a lot 3637 03:29:56.520 --> 03:29:59.520 of time with them. After we took care of everything, 3638 03:29:59.680 --> 03:30:02.959 I stood up taking Kara's hand. As we moved forward 3639 03:30:03.040 --> 03:30:07.159 into our lives together, I appreciated my one hundred acres. 3640 03:30:07.520 --> 03:30:10.239 We had settled into the cabin, and I found that 3641 03:30:10.360 --> 03:30:13.440 I liked not having guests all the time. We built 3642 03:30:13.479 --> 03:30:17.159 two more houses. One was a four bedroom home like ours, 3643 03:30:17.280 --> 03:30:20.440 and the other was a lodge with eleven bedrooms. They 3644 03:30:20.479 --> 03:30:23.280 stood on the other side of the lake, close enough 3645 03:30:23.319 --> 03:30:26.719 for us to connect, but far enough to enjoy some quiet. 3646 03:30:26.959 --> 03:30:30.159 In a surprising turn of events, the lodge became a 3647 03:30:30.159 --> 03:30:34.040 summer camp for three weeks each year. This happened because 3648 03:30:34.079 --> 03:30:37.200 our old church held a fundraiser for kids from less 3649 03:30:37.200 --> 03:30:40.600 fortunate families to enjoy nature. When they did not meet 3650 03:30:40.639 --> 03:30:43.920 their goal, it seemed the camp would be canceled, but 3651 03:30:44.000 --> 03:30:47.040 then Kara stepped in. Send the kids to us for 3652 03:30:47.120 --> 03:30:49.879 a week. We have a lake and plenty of space 3653 03:30:49.959 --> 03:30:53.000 for them to explore. They can fish, swim, and we 3654 03:30:53.040 --> 03:30:56.000 will get some canoes for them to use. It won't 3655 03:30:56.040 --> 03:31:00.239 cost you anything but the gas. We expected about twenty kidsids, 3656 03:31:00.479 --> 03:31:04.239 but they were encouraged to invite friends, so almost fifty 3657 03:31:04.319 --> 03:31:07.239 showed up. Carol made sure we had enough tents since 3658 03:31:07.239 --> 03:31:11.079 everyone wanted to camp out along with life jackets, sunscreen, 3659 03:31:11.239 --> 03:31:14.440 bug spray, and anything else the kids might need. Some 3660 03:31:14.680 --> 03:31:17.799 older members of the church came along and stayed in 3661 03:31:17.879 --> 03:31:20.600 the lodge. For many of the kids, it was their 3662 03:31:20.600 --> 03:31:25.079 first vacation. We advertised and hired experienced young people as 3663 03:31:25.159 --> 03:31:28.639 counselors to help look after everyone and run the activities. 3664 03:31:28.959 --> 03:31:32.120 One of the highlights was taking them to the farmer's market, 3665 03:31:32.440 --> 03:31:35.479 where each child got to pick something they wanted for 3666 03:31:35.559 --> 03:31:38.600 a meal. It was the season for corn and tomatoes, 3667 03:31:38.920 --> 03:31:42.159 so they chose those, along with green beans, cabbage, and 3668 03:31:42.239 --> 03:31:47.600 early cantalopes. Blueberries were also plentiful, giving them options for dessert. 3669 03:31:47.840 --> 03:31:50.520 There was an elderly man there who quickly gathered a 3670 03:31:50.559 --> 03:31:54.159 crowd as he shared stories about food history. The kids 3671 03:31:54.239 --> 03:31:57.239 laughed when he told them how in the mid one thousand, 3672 03:31:57.319 --> 03:32:00.920 eight hundred s people thought tomatoes were poor poisonous. A 3673 03:32:01.040 --> 03:32:04.600 man in San Francisco tried to prove otherwise by eating 3674 03:32:04.639 --> 03:32:07.319 one in front of a crowd, but then he ended 3675 03:32:07.399 --> 03:32:11.920 up feeling very sick, strengthening the superstition. We bought all 3676 03:32:11.959 --> 03:32:15.319 his produce, and he and his wife received many hugs 3677 03:32:15.319 --> 03:32:18.360 and pictures with the children. He wore overalls and a 3678 03:32:18.399 --> 03:32:21.719 straw hat, while his wife had a long flowing dress. 3679 03:32:22.079 --> 03:32:25.479 They looked just like the farmers the kids imagined. The 3680 03:32:25.559 --> 03:32:28.440 event was so successful that we promised to make it 3681 03:32:28.520 --> 03:32:32.360 an annual tradition. Then Michael's wife quietly asked if we 3682 03:32:32.399 --> 03:32:36.200 could help with her mosque. We agreed right away. We've 3683 03:32:36.239 --> 03:32:39.200 adjusted the menus a bit, but it turned out to 3684 03:32:39.239 --> 03:32:43.479 be another great success. Mama Chin gathered some Jewish children 3685 03:32:43.559 --> 03:32:46.719 and we did the same event again. There were plans 3686 03:32:46.760 --> 03:32:50.200 to have everyone together for a cultural exchange. The next year. 3687 03:32:50.559 --> 03:32:54.000 My birthday came and my wonderful wife surprised me with 3688 03:32:54.079 --> 03:32:57.159 a gift. I heard some ec it meant, but since 3689 03:32:57.200 --> 03:33:00.399 we were expanding the lodge for more seniors, I didn't 3690 03:33:00.399 --> 03:33:03.040 think much of it. She had a big smile, so 3691 03:33:03.239 --> 03:33:07.239 I knew something special was happening. The day before my birthday, 3692 03:33:07.520 --> 03:33:09.879 she took my hand and led me to a meadow 3693 03:33:10.079 --> 03:33:13.559 that meant a lot to us. It was different now. 3694 03:33:13.600 --> 03:33:16.280 The stream was turned into a small pond and the 3695 03:33:16.319 --> 03:33:20.159 meadow about four acres, was leveled and shaped. A shed 3696 03:33:20.319 --> 03:33:23.319 was built and inside was a small tractor along with 3697 03:33:23.440 --> 03:33:27.159 tools like hose and rakes. You got a first love back. 3698 03:33:27.360 --> 03:33:31.559 My husband time to reclaim another. She said, I couldn't 3699 03:33:31.600 --> 03:33:35.280 help but cry. At sixty two, Farming sometimes made me 3700 03:33:35.399 --> 03:33:38.520 feel my age, but most days I felt like I 3701 03:33:38.680 --> 03:33:42.360 was still in my thirties. Cora still looked beautiful, even 3702 03:33:42.440 --> 03:33:45.559 with her silver hair. I had just come back from 3703 03:33:45.559 --> 03:33:49.239 a

meeting. The company was doing well and making good money. 3704 03:33:49.479 --> 03:33:52.680 Micky was looking a bit older, and I encouraged him 3705 03:33:52.719 --> 03:33:55.760 to take it easy. Your family will want you around 3706 03:33:55.799 --> 03:33:58.799 for a long time. Be there for them. Mickey and 3707 03:33:58.959 --> 03:34:02.840 Ashley had three children, two boys and a girl. Ashley 3708 03:34:02.879 --> 03:34:06.000 had decided to stay home with them. I thought about 3709 03:34:06.000 --> 03:34:08.239 how happy she looked. As I stepped out of my 3710 03:34:08.360 --> 03:34:12.639 truck Daddy's home. Two excited children ran in and jumped 3711 03:34:12.680 --> 03:34:16.280 into my arms. I hugged each of them, telling them 3712 03:34:16.360 --> 03:34:19.760 how much I had missed them. Kara walked out gracefully, 3713 03:34:19.879 --> 03:34:23.000 and I held her until the kids started pulling at us. 3714 03:34:23.360 --> 03:34:26.920 Have they been good little rascals the whole time? Kara said, 3715 03:34:27.040 --> 03:34:31.079 her eyes sparkling. No, I was a perfect angel. Daddy 3716 03:34:31.319 --> 03:34:34.680 Bobby was the trouble maker, said one child. I looked 3717 03:34:34.719 --> 03:34:38.520 at my son, who turned red. I was not Sandy, 3718 03:34:38.760 --> 03:34:41.840 is just making that up? I figured the truth was 3719 03:34:41.879 --> 03:34:44.840 somewhere in the middle and smiled. It was good to 3720 03:34:44.920 --> 03:34:47.920 be home. So how did we get the kids? They 3721 03:34:47.959 --> 03:34:51.360 were a parting gift from my ex wife, Maria. Micky 3722 03:34:51.479 --> 03:34:55.520 called me in a hurry, Dad, something's wrong. I need 3723 03:34:55.600 --> 03:34:58.840 you and Mom here right away. After I learned they 3724 03:34:58.879 --> 03:35:02.920 were both okay, he drove straight through, arriving late at night. 3725 03:35:03.280 --> 03:35:06.799 Ashleigh was five months pregnant and we were worried about 3726 03:35:06.840 --> 03:35:11.680 the baby. They both seemed scared. Surprisingly, Sophia was with them, 3727 03:35:11.719 --> 03:35:15.760 looking serious. It's about our mom. She has passed away. 3728 03:35:16.159 --> 03:35:19.159 They hadn't talked for years, but it was still her mother. 3729 03:35:19.520 --> 03:35:23.319 What happened? She died after giving birth to twins. Our 3730 03:35:23.440 --> 03:35:26.399 father wouldn't take her to the hospital because he knew 3731 03:35:26.440 --> 03:35:29.399 they weren't his children, and she died at home. If 3732 03:35:29.440 --> 03:35:32.360 the neighbors hadn't heard her cries, the babies could have 3733 03:35:32.479 --> 03:35:35.840 also died. He left and the police are still trying 3734 03:35:35.920 --> 03:35:39.239 to find him. They traced us through medical records and 3735 03:35:39.360 --> 03:35:43.159 called Mickey, what do we do now? I thought about Maria. 3736 03:35:43.520 --> 03:35:46.719 She was seven years younger than me, making her about 3737 03:35:46.760 --> 03:35:50.600 forty four. What was she thinking? I didn't get to answer. 3738 03:35:50.840 --> 03:35:54.079 Kara did We're going to get them. They wouldn't have 3739 03:35:54.159 --> 03:35:57.920 a chance growing up alone. Down there. It's a better place, 3740 03:35:58.280 --> 03:36:01.000 but they still need to improve on how they care 3741 03:36:01.159 --> 03:36:04.079 for children. Will they let us have them? You're their 3742 03:36:04.159 --> 03:36:08.319 only family. They wouldn't have contacted you otherwise. I don't 3743 03:36:08.360 --> 03:36:12.360 see a problem. Now, let's pack. Six hours later, we 3744 03:36:12.360 --> 03:36:15.399 were on a plane to Costa Rica. The beauty of 3745 03:36:15.440 --> 03:36:17.959 the area hit us as soon as we left the 3746 03:36:17.959 --> 03:36:20.840 big city. We hired a driver with a newer van 3747 03:36:20.959 --> 03:36:24.159 because the small town we were going to head no airport. 3748 03:36:24.399 --> 03:36:28.280 It took us six hours to travel over increasingly rough roads. 3749 03:36:28.479 --> 03:36:32.680 The hospital was small, almost like a clinic. The administrator 3750 03:36:32.799 --> 03:36:36.280 and head nurse greeted us at the door, both looking relieved. 3751 03:36:36.719 --> 03:36:39.159 We went to see the babies and were amazed at 3752 03:36:39.159 --> 03:36:43.920 how tiny they were. Their mother hadn't cared for herself. Kara, Ashley, 3753 03:36:44.040 --> 03:36:47.399 and Sophia began to cry, and soon enough they were 3754 03:36:47.440 --> 03:36:51.319 sitting in old rocking chairs, holding and comforting the babies. 3755 03:36:51.520 --> 03:36:53.879 Kara looked at me and I knew we were going 3756 03:36:53.959 --> 03:36:57.479 to take them. I felt good about that decision. It 3757 03:36:57.559 --> 03:37:00.680 took six weeks to complete the necessary pace work and 3758 03:37:00.799 --> 03:37:04.760 finalize everything, but Finally it was done. The kids were 3759 03:37:04.760 --> 03:37:08.559 officially placed with Sophia and Mickey, but everyone knew where 3760 03:37:08.559 --> 03:37:11.799 they would go. A week after we arrived, we laid 3761 03:37:11.840 --> 03:37:14.319 their mother to rest. They had kept her in the 3762 03:37:14.360 --> 03:37:17.799 morgue while waiting for decisions. There were no signs of 3763 03:37:17.879 --> 03:37:20.799 foul play, and they released her to Mickey. I went 3764 03:37:20.920 --> 03:37:24.399 with him to identify her. She looked older and fragile, 3765 03:37:24.559 --> 03:37:27.680 no longer resembling the woman I once knew. We held 3766 03:37:27.719 --> 03:37:30.840 a simple funeral and buried her in a family plot 3767 03:37:30.920 --> 03:37:34.440 at the local church, which only required a small donation. 3768 03:37:34.840 --> 03:37:37.920 Everything we did there seemed to need a small contribution, 3769 03:37:38.360 --> 03:37:42.120 even though it wasn't necessary. Kara and I talked it over. 3770 03:37:42.479 -->

03:37:46.000 I feel good about kids aged ten and older thanks 3771 03:37:46.040 --> 03:37:49.120 to Mickey, but this is new for me, I said. 3772 03:37:49.319 --> 03:37:51.920 With our age, this is a new challenge and it 3773 03:37:52.000 --> 03:37:55.440 might be tough. I really want them. I just want 3774 03:37:55.559 --> 03:37:58.319 you to know what we're getting into. We'll be in 3775 03:37:58.399 --> 03:38:02.559 our seventies when they finished college, she smiled. I want 3776 03:38:02.600 --> 03:38:05.680 to be there to see that too. This is my dream, 3777 03:38:06.000 --> 03:38:09.920 my second chance. If we feel overwhelmed, we can hire 3778 03:38:10.000 --> 03:38:13.159 help for support and training. I'm ready to commit my 3779 03:38:13.280 --> 03:38:16.239 life to them and give them every chance to succeed. 3780 03:38:16.520 --> 03:38:19.639 Please say you're with me, I hugged her to comfort her. 3781 03:38:19.879 --> 03:38:23.000 Of course, I'm with you. We still need to think 3782 03:38:23.040 --> 03:38:26.000 of names for them. In the meantime, we have a 3783 03:38:26.000 --> 03:38:29.360 lot to do. I had a long talk with Mickey, Sophia, 3784 03:38:29.559 --> 03:38:33.479 and her sister Theresa, who had come by unexpectedly. It 3785 03:38:33.559 --> 03:38:36.159 was the first time Sophia had seen her in four 3786 03:38:36.280 --> 03:38:39.639 years and six years for Micky. She was newly single 3787 03:38:39.719 --> 03:38:42.000 and had a ten year old boy and a seven 3788 03:38:42.079 --> 03:38:45.120 year old girl. Life had not been easy for her 3789 03:38:45.520 --> 03:38:47.920 and it didn't take much to convince her to come 3790 03:38:47.920 --> 03:38:50.680 home with us. She was very close to her mother 3791 03:38:50.799 --> 03:38:54.079 and cried at the funeral. After wiping her tears, she 3792 03:38:54.239 --> 03:38:57.559 placed a red rose on her mother's grave before walking away. 3793 03:38:57.959 --> 03:39:01.000 Everyone agreed that we could take the chill even though 3794 03:39:01.040 --> 03:39:04.479 they were technically under Mickey's care. I'd love to take them, 3795 03:39:04.719 --> 03:39:07.319 but with our first child on the way, it would 3796 03:39:07.360 --> 03:39:10.600 be too much for Ashley. Sophia isn't ready to be 3797 03:39:10.719 --> 03:39:14.000 a mother, and Teresa already has her two kids. This 3798 03:39:14.159 --> 03:39:16.920 seems like the best plan, and I know you will 3799 03:39:16.959 --> 03:39:20.440 be a great dad. Once the paperwork was settled, Cara 3800 03:39:20.600 --> 03:39:23.399 arranged for a helicopter to take them to the airport. 3801 03:39:23.760 --> 03:39:26.239 There was no way we were letting the kids under 3802 03:39:26.319 --> 03:39:29.719 a rough six hour car ride. Our whole family, every 3803 03:39:29.760 --> 03:39:32.520 single one of them, met us at the airport. I 3804 03:39:32.719 --> 03:39:35.600 was holding our daughter while Kara had our son. As 3805 03:39:35.639 --> 03:39:38.719 we got off the plane, we were greeted with cheers 3806 03:39:38.760 --> 03:39:41.719 and excitement. There was lots of happy chatter, and the 3807 03:39:41.799 --> 03:39:45.440 kids were passed around among their new aunts, uncles, cousins, 3808 03:39:45.440 --> 03:39:50.159 and grandmothers. Mama Chan was especially joyful, first holding the 3809 03:39:50.200 --> 03:39:53.200 boy and then the girl, smiling at me the whole time. 3810 03:39:53.520 --> 03:39:56.200 You know, once they get a bit older, you'll have 3811 03:39:56.319 --> 03:39:59.559 built in help whenever you need time for yourselves. I 3812 03:39:59.639 --> 03:40:03.239 only wish I could live closer, Kara smiled, and two 3813 03:40:03.280 --> 03:40:06.760 weeks later, construction on a new house began. It was 3814 03:40:06.799 --> 03:40:09.799 a modest, three bedroom home that fit in well with 3815 03:40:09.879 --> 03:40:12.799 the other buildings. Kara took Mom a chen to see 3816 03:40:12.840 --> 03:40:16.319 the new place. It's lovely, dear, who will be living here? 3817 03:40:16.639 --> 03:40:19.440 It's for you, Mom. This way you can see the 3818 03:40:19.520 --> 03:40:23.399 kids every day. She eventually stopped crying and moved in 3819 03:40:23.520 --> 03:40:26.280 three weeks later. Even though I thought it was a 3820 03:40:26.319 --> 03:40:29.399 bit too much, space, since she often stayed with us. 3821 03:40:29.879 --> 03:40:33.520 I joked to Kara about spending our money. She smiled 3822 03:40:33.639 --> 03:40:37.040 back and said, no, we didn't. Mom is a lively 3823 03:40:37.079 --> 03:40:40.079 woman with many years ahead of her. I don't think 3824 03:40:40.120 --> 03:40:43.600 she'll be alone forever. When that day comes, she will 3825 03:40:43.639 --> 03:40:47.440 need her own space. Her prediction came true a year later. 3826 03:40:47.799 --> 03:40:50.319 The man turned out to be the farmer I had 3827 03:40:50.520 --> 03:40:53.399 liked at the market. His wife had passed away a 3828 03:40:53.479 --> 03:40:56.280 year and a half earlier, and he was starting to 3829 03:40:56.440 --> 03:41:00.239 enjoy life again. They had known each other for forty years. 3830 03:41:00.440 --> 03:41:03.520 Veronica met him at the market, and after a few 3831 03:41:03.520 --> 03:41:07.200 months he asked her out to a dinner dance. She accepted, 3832 03:41:07.319 --> 03:41:11.040 and when she opened the door, she almost didn't recognize him. 3833 03:41:11.319 --> 03:41:15.399 Gone worthy overalls and straw hat replaced by a smart suit. 3834 03:41:15.680 --> 03:41:18.319 He turned out to be a great dancer, and they 3835 03:41:18.360 --> 03:41:21.600 stayed at the place until it closed. I was awake 3836 03:41:21.719 --> 03:41:23.799 with the kids when he brought her home in the 3837 03:41:23.879 --> 03:41:27.040 early morning. They spent a little time in his car 3838 03:41:27.120 --> 03:41:30.680 before she finally came inside. He was impressed by her 3839 03:41:30.719 -->

03:41:34.040 beauty and kind personality, and she liked his warmth and 3840 03:41:34.200 --> 03:41:37.479 gentle nature. They dated for six months, and then I 3841 03:41:37.559 --> 03:41:40.280 looked out the window one morning and saw his car 3842 03:41:40.399 --> 03:41:43.360 still parked at her house. I showed Kara and she 3843 03:41:43.520 --> 03:41:47.399 hurried over, waking them up and inviting them to breakfast. 3844 03:41:47.680 --> 03:41:50.399 Veronica didn't look at us at first, but as we 3845 03:41:50.520 --> 03:41:53.879 all talked, she started to open up. She and Kara 3846 03:41:53.879 --> 03:41:56.879 were in the kitchen when Kara suddenly started laughing and 3847 03:41:57.000 --> 03:41:59.879 Veronica blushed. Kara hugged her and they came out the 3848 03:42:00.120 --> 03:42:03.280 surprised to see Bert and me feeding the kids. What 3849 03:42:03.799 --> 03:42:07.639 he laughed, Sarah and I raised five kids. You don't 3850 03:42:07.680 --> 03:42:10.479 think she did all the work, do you? The way 3851 03:42:10.639 --> 03:42:14.520 Veronica looked at him, she admired him. Six months later 3852 03:42:14.840 --> 03:42:18.000 they decided to live together, and three months after that 3853 03:42:18.319 --> 03:42:22.079 he proposed they got married by the lake, surrounded by 3854 03:42:22.159 --> 03:42:26.440 wild flowers. The kids really liked having them as grand parents. 3855 03:42:26.680 --> 03:42:30.200 Bert was doing well, owning a large farm. He leased 3856 03:42:30.239 --> 03:42:33.040 the farm and the house, and to keep busy, he 3857 03:42:33.040 --> 03:42:36.600 helped me with my small garden. We expanded our garden 3858 03:42:36.639 --> 03:42:39.479 to keep up with demand, and we took turns selling 3859 03:42:39.600 --> 03:42:42.959 at the market. Our wives always joined us, and when 3860 03:42:43.000 --> 03:42:46.319 Kara brought the kids, we always attracted a crowd. I 3861 03:42:46.440 --> 03:42:49.719 asked Kara later what she had laughed about in the kitchen. 3862 03:42:50.000 --> 03:42:52.959 Mom said, Bert was sixty four and weighed two hundred 3863 03:42:53.079 --> 03:42:56.440 fifty and he was well built. Think about it, well, 3864 03:42:56.600 --> 03:42:59.799 then good for Bert. The kids grew up quickly. When 3865 03:42:59.799 --> 03:43:04.040 it was time for kindergarten, either Kara or Veronica took them. 3866 03:43:04.319 --> 03:43:07.520 As they made friends, they sometimes had extra kids in 3867 03:43:07.559 --> 03:43:11.200 the car. Kara and Mom decided to volunteer at the school. 3868 03:43:11.479 --> 03:43:14.079 They were both unhappy with the quality of the school 3869 03:43:14.159 --> 03:43:17.680 lunches and started a campaign to improve them instead of 3870 03:43:17.760 --> 03:43:21.879 resisting them. The cafeteria staff welcomed their help. I've been 3871 03:43:21.920 --> 03:43:25.120 trying to make improvements for years, and they always said 3872 03:43:25.120 --> 03:43:28.719 they bought the best

they could afford. We don't cook anymore. 3873 03:43:29.040 --> 03:43:32.920 We just opened cans. I've lost good staff because of it, 3874 03:43:33.159 --> 03:43:37.879 the cafeteria manager said, sadly. The changes started small, a 3875 03:43:37.920 --> 03:43:41.840 few fresh vegetables from local farmers. We bought a large 3876 03:43:41.879 --> 03:43:44.239 lot next to the school and used it as a 3877 03:43:44.280 --> 03:43:47.360 garden for the school. The older kids were allowed to 3878 03:43:47.399 --> 03:43:50.120 help out once a week with guidance from a few 3879 03:43:50.159 --> 03:43:54.879 retired farmers. Before long, the cafeteria was serving fresh meals 3880 03:43:54.920 --> 03:43:57.879 from local sources, bought at the same price as the 3881 03:43:57.920 --> 03:44:01.600 processed food. There was a big board outside the cafeteria 3882 03:44:01.639 --> 03:44:05.440 listing the meals for the coming weeks. Soon more parents 3883 03:44:05.479 --> 03:44:08.680 began to have meals with their children. We partnered with 3884 03:44:08.719 --> 03:44:12.319 a farmer who raised chickens for free range eggs. Our 3885 03:44:12.399 --> 03:44:16.280 school was small, with only three hundred students from kindergarten 3886 03:44:16.360 --> 03:44:20.079 to fifth grade, including teachers and staff. This meant he 3887 03:44:20.159 --> 03:44:24.399 could provide enough eggs every week before long breakfast was 3888 03:44:24.479 --> 03:44:28.440 being served. The meals were simple eggs, grits, home fries, 3889 03:44:28.639 --> 03:44:33.239 bacon or sausage, and toast. Sometimes there were pancakes and waffles, 3890 03:44:33.360 --> 03:44:36.879 and on those days the cafeteria was very busy. As 3891 03:44:36.920 --> 03:44:40.879 a result, student attendants and test scores began to improve. 3892 03:44:41.239 --> 03:44:44.000 It seemed that well fed and happy kids were more 3893 03:44:44.040 --> 03:44:47.760 focussed and engaged. The middle school even tried to hire 3894 03:44:47.799 --> 03:44:51.000 our cafeteria manager, but she chose to stay because she 3895 03:44:51.120 --> 03:44:54.680 worried the quality of food might change. Sophia got our 3896 03:44:54.760 --> 03:44:58.440 nonprofit involved and soon all five schools in the county 3897 03:44:58.520 --> 03:45:01.760 joined the slow Food for Fact Vast Learner's program. Three 3898 03:45:01.879 --> 03:45:05.680 years later, families started moving into the county, drawn by 3899 03:45:05.680 --> 03:45:08.559 its quality schools. When there was an opening on the 3900 03:45:08.600 --> 03:45:12.719 school board. Both political parties reached out to Veronica and Kara, 3901 03:45:12.879 --> 03:45:16.040 hoping one of them would fill the position. Kara supported 3902 03:45:16.159 --> 03:45:20.120 Veronica because of the kids, and Veronica was approved unanimously. 3903 03:45:20.479 --> 03:45:23.239 After a year, she was encouraged to run for a 3904 03:45:23.239 --> 03:45:26.440 full term, and she did so

as an independent. She 3905 03:45:26.600 --> 03:45:30.639 received more votes than the next two candidates combined. Out 3906 03:45:30.639 --> 03:45:34.440 of curiosity, one day, I added up my finances. My 3907 03:45:34.559 --> 03:45:38.680 personal wealth was just over three hundred million and still rising. 3908 03:45:39.000 --> 03:45:41.799 This was after I had stepped away from my business, 3909 03:45:41.920 --> 03:45:45.639 restructured my corporation, and ensured that all my children had 3910 03:45:45.639 --> 03:45:49.040 a share. Mickey still kept thirty percent while the rest 3911 03:45:49.239 --> 03:45:53.079 was shared equally. Apart from our home and property, Kara 3912 03:45:53.239 --> 03:45:56.399 and I enjoyed a comfortable middle class lifestyle that we 3913 03:45:56.520 --> 03:45:58.559 might have had if we had been together all those 3914 03:45:58.680 --> 03:46:01.879 years earlier. We made this on a yearly income of 3915 03:46:02.000 --> 03:46:05.639 dollar two hundred thousand. It was enough. If either of 3916 03:46:05.719 --> 03:46:08.719 us wanted something beyond the basics, we would talk it 3917 03:46:08.799 --> 03:46:12.719 over first. Kara still had her earnings from selling her business, 3918 03:46:12.760 --> 03:46:15.799 which were invested wisely and valued at a round dollar 3919 03:46:15.840 --> 03:46:19.120 four million. Even if I lost all my money, we 3920 03:46:19.200 --> 03:46:22.440 would still be secure. I thought about this As Kara 3921 03:46:22.479 --> 03:46:25.680 helped me fix my tie, my hands shook a little 3922 03:46:25.719 --> 03:46:28.719 at my age, so she made sure I looked nice. 3923 03:46:29.079 --> 03:46:32.280 We were going to an awards ceremony where Sophia was 3924 03:46:32.360 --> 03:46:35.600 receiving an honor for the National Slow Food for Fast 3925 03:46:35.680 --> 03:46:39.840 Learners Project. I smiled as I watched Kara move gracefully. 3926 03:46:40.120 --> 03:46:43.399 Her dress suited her beautifully, and she looked stunning. For 3927 03:46:43.479 --> 03:46:47.040 our twenty fifth anniversary, I had given her a diamond 3928 03:46:47.079 --> 03:46:49.959 necklace that she loved but rarely wore, except when I 3929 03:46:50.120 --> 03:46:54.000 insisted that night. It sparkled around her neck. She still 3930 03:46:54.079 --> 03:46:56.680 weighed the same as when we first met, and had 3931 03:46:56.719 --> 03:46:59.360 a lovely head of white hair that reached almost to 3932 03:46:59.440 --> 03:47:03.920 her waist. Even at our age, she received compliments. The 3933 03:47:04.040 --> 03:47:06.760 kids were back from college and were driving us to 3934 03:47:06.799 --> 03:47:10.200 the event. Bobby was set to intern with Sophia, while 3935 03:47:10.280 --> 03:47:13.840 Sandy was off to the corporate offices to work with Mackey. 3936 03:47:14.079 --> 03:47:17.479 I loved Western movies, and our family often joked that 3937 03:47:17.600 --> 03:47:21.079 I owned every Western ever made on Blu Ray,

starting 3938 03:47:21.120 --> 03:47:24.120 from the earliest talkies. My favorite was Angel and the 3939 03:47:24.200 --> 03:47:27.799 bad Man, a classic with John Waine. As I got older, 3940 03:47:28.040 --> 03:47:31.040 I understood that it was more than just a Western. 3941 03:47:31.360 --> 03:47:34.799 It had a message about the struggle between good and bad. 3942 03:47:35.079 --> 03:47:37.920 In the end, when John Wayne chose not to use 3943 03:47:37.959 --> 03:47:40.399 his guns, he knew that if he were to die, 3944 03:47:40.479 --> 03:47:43.200 he would do so with honor. I remember seeing a 3945 03:47:43.280 --> 03:47:46.479 cross stitch on the wall of his love interest's house. 3946 03:47:46.879 --> 03:47:49.719 They were Quakers, and it had a simple saying, live 3947 03:47:49.840 --> 03:47:52.040 by the side of the road and be a friend 3948 03:47:52.120 --> 03:47:55.399 to man. This thought stayed with me for a long time. 3949 03:47:55.719 --> 03:47:58.600 It was a good principle to live by. That's what 3950 03:47:58.760 --> 03:48:01.520 I aim to be. What is wealth if you can't 3951 03:48:01.639 --> 03:48:04.120 use it to help others. What if I hadn't met 3952 03:48:04.159 --> 03:48:06.799 a kind woman and became friends with her one day 3953 03:48:06.840 --> 03:48:09.399 when I just wanted to rush out of the neighborhood. 3954 03:48:09.719 --> 03:48:11.959 What if I hadn't met Maria to help me be 3955 03:48:12.079 --> 03:48:14.680 a father to Mickey, or Sandy who showed me the 3956 03:48:14.719 --> 03:48:18.600 meaning of true love, or Bob who helped Kara understand 3957 03:48:18.680 --> 03:48:21.200 what love should feel like so I could learn to 3958 03:48:21.559 --> 03:48:24.879 and finally Kara, who faced her own challenges for a 3959 03:48:24.920 --> 03:48:28.840 while feeling lost before finding her way back to happiness. 3960 03:48:28.920 --> 03:48:31.520 I thought about all the people who had influenced my 3961 03:48:31.639 --> 03:48:34.479 journey and helped me become who I am. I was 3962 03:48:34.520 --> 03:48:37.159 proud to know them, proud to be their friend, and 3963 03:48:37.280 --> 03:48:40.040 hopeful that I could make their lives better. As I 3964 03:48:40.159 --> 03:48:43.239 walked out, I glanced at the family while filled with 3965 03:48:43.319 --> 03:48:46.760 pictures of family, both living and those who had passed. 3966 03:48:47.120 --> 03:48:54.680 One section honored my children Mickey, Ashley, Sophia, Teresa, Emily, Michael, Miguel, Amy, Alice, Connie, 3967 03:48:54.760 --> 03:48:58.520 and finally Bobby and Sandy name to remember a wonderful 3968 03:48:58.600 --> 03:49:03.239 couple who left us too soon. Another section celebrated our grandchildren, 3969 03:49:03.399 --> 03:49:07.120 all twenty three of them, along with our nine great grandchildren, 3970 03:49:07.319 --> 03:49:10.440 all set for college or with trust funds for their future. 3971 03:49:10.719 --> 03:49:13.719 I touched the picture of Mama Chin, who had passed 3972 03:49:13.760 --> 03:49:16.600 away a few years back. She was one of the 3973 03:49:16.639 --> 03:49:21.000 best grandmothers and mothers, just like my wife, even though she, 3974 03:49:21.440 --> 03:49:25.479 like me, never had biological children. Love can go beyond 3975 03:49:25.559 --> 03:49:29.360 blood ties. There it is. Love can indeed be deeper 3976 03:49:29.399 --> 03:49:32.639 than genetics. You look at my wall and notice very 3977 03:49:32.680 --> 03:49:36.559 few white faces, mostly black and Hispanic ones or a 3978 03:49:36.600 --> 03:49:39.799 mix of different races. All I could see was love. 3979 03:49:40.959 --> 03:49:44.959 Thank you for listening with me today. I am Lady Truth, 3980 03:49:45.000 --> 03:49:47.319 and I will talk to you in the next crazy 3981 03:49:47.399 --> 03:50:00.280 cheat story.