No Coincidences

No Coincidences

I’m convinced that there are no coincidences. Lately I’ve experienced enough chance occurrences to support my belief.

Only yesterday I encountered a friend on her morning walk when I went to get our newspaper. Her mother died recently, and although I’d sent a card, I hadn’t seen her. We talked for a few minutes, and tonight I’m accompanying her to a grief support group. I think the time together will benefit us both. But I can’t help thinking about the timing of our encounter. We were meant to meet at that moment. (more…)

How Individual Stories Contribute to History

How Individual Stories Contribute to History

American writer Willa Cather said, “The history of every country begins in the heart of a man or a woman.” That is why each person’s life story contributes to history as a whole.

For nearly four years I chaired the Oral History Program at the Museum of Ventura County, and my mission was to capture the stories of individuals who had made a significant difference in the county. I recruited many volunteers to help me, and together we gathered stories.
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Love Makes a Family

Love Makes a Family

The old saying, “You can choose your friends but not your family” does not ring true for families who choose to adopt a child. In our extended family, including first and second cousins, there were thirteen chosen individuals. Sadly, three have died. We are related by adoption and by marriage. We call each other “cousin” because that’s our relationship to each other. Although we’re not related by blood, we are bound by love. It’s a tie that binds us together as tightly as it holds us to our families. (more…)