Spiritual revival

How have your political views changed over time?

Reflecting on my personal political journey, I recall starting as a conservative Christian Democrat in high school while living in my native Bolivia. My perspective shifted significantly during my college years at UCLA, where I became a progressive democrat, passionately advocating for civil rights and free speech on campus. This evolution continued in graduate school at UCSB, where I embraced revolutionary socialism, dedicating a significant portion of my life to fighting for the underprivileged in Nicaragua and Bolivia. However, over time, I came to realize the limitations of socialism. Despite my genuine intentions, the results were not as I had hoped, leading me to a critical reassessment. I eventually joined academia, and now, I identify as a social democrat. I strongly believe in the principles of democracy and advocate for a regulated free market economy. This journey has been both challenging and enlightening, shaping my current understanding of political and economic systems.

You get to build your perfect space for reading and writing. What’s it like?

The perfect space for reading, for me, is anywhere I can sit comfortably with good lighting. However, the most crucial element is the book itself. I prefer reading books that delve into philosophical arguments, especially those that help me understand my relationship with the Divine.

What is your all time favorite automobile?

My all-time favorite car is the red 1964 Ford Mustang I purchased upon graduating from UCLA.

Who are the biggest influences in your life?

Jesus and Buddha significantly influence my life with their teachings of compassion, love, and inner peace. Jesus’ emphasis on love, kindness, and forgiveness guides my interactions and personal growth. Buddha’s insights into mindfulness and the path to enlightenment shape my understanding of life and how to navigate its challenges. Both inspire me to live with compassion and wisdom.

Share what you know about the year you were born.

The good news:

End of World War II

Interfaith Movements Post-WWII

Formation of the United Nations

Liberation of Concentration Camps

The bad news

Atomic Bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki

Beginning of Cold War

Are you a good judge of character?

My ability to assess character played a crucial role in my success as an academic executive. By looking into people’s eyes, I could gauge their honesty, ambition, and passion for achieving their goals. This insight enabled me to choose individuals who consistently met these criteria and proved to be exceptional employees.

When are you most happy?

I find my greatest happiness in the moments after prayer or meditation, when I feel the presence of a Divine power and sense that I am, in some way, a part of it.

What was the last thing you did for play or fun?

Following a family tradition, I have just built the manger to commemorate the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. In this world of violence and war , racial and gender hatred , let us look upon this manger and recall His timeless message: ‘Love thy neighbor as thyself, and the neighbor is every human being regardless of race, national origin, or religion

List your top 5 grocery store items.

here are five universally acclaimed books that offer deep insights into various aspects of life:

1. “Man’s Search for Meaning”
   2. “To Kill a Mockingbird”
   3. “The Alchemist”
   4. “Siddhartha”
   5. “The Diary of a Young Girl”

Describe a man who has positively impacted your life.

Jesus’ teaching, ‘Love thy neighbor as thyself,’ has profoundly impacted my life. It has guided me to act with empathy and kindness, enriching my relationships and bringing purpose to my daily actions. This simple yet powerful principle continues to shape my journey towards compassion and community.