I've Been Tagged

What is your greatest regret?

I guess it would be putting my job before my family when I was in my 40's. I was in charge of hiring part time teachers, all sophomore students, three committees (and was a member of two other committees), school extra-curricular activities and belonged to several teacher organisations. Although I only taught 6 classes per week, I usually worked 60+ hours per week. I became a Full Professor at age 39 and had enormous power and status that went to my head. I missed almost all of my children's school events. I became a dictator at home, when I was there. I don't know how my wife put up with me.

Do you believe in the existence of soul mates and/or true love?

I knew the moment I first saw my wife that she was the one. I was 27 and was dating four other women when I met her. I was a party animal. She put me in my place and I only had eyes for her. She graduated a semester before I did and had to go back to Japan. I cried all day when she left. Six months later we got married.

What do you believe makes a successful life?

Caring, sharing and trust. I also believe daily prayer is essential.

Who is the person you despise the most, and why?

 I despise greedy and selfish people. I despise those who try to hurt others with words or physical violence. I despise people who use the Church for political purposes. 

What makes you laugh?

I see humor in almost everything now that I'm free of the burden of self importance. My wife says I often laugh in my sleep. I love most forms of comedy, but sometimes get sick of the sex jokes. I personally detest swearing.

Are you a better leader or a follower?

Me follow. That isn't likely unless I have great respect for the person. I like to lead. I like to be on stage with everyone looking at me.

What is your greatest Fear?

Without a doubt it would be the death of my wife or my children. My brother, age 17, died when I was 18 and my father passed away in 1991. I have never come to grips with this. I still dream with my dad in my dreams.

What are your pet peeves?

I'm pretty easy going. If I get angry, I don't stay angry unless the person continues to try to annoy me. I guess my biggest pet peeve is that I hate to argue or feel angry.

What's the most adventurous thing you've done or would do?

I went on a canoe trip on a fast flowing river with about 20 friends. We used bottles to fire firecrackers at each other, then started slamming our canoes into each other. The one with me and my friend tipped over. I floated quite rapidly downstream for maybe 20~30 minutes before our canoe beached and we could get ashore. The strange thing is that I wasn't in the least bit afraid. Looking back, I think I was totally nuts.