Riz had to be persuaded to take part in 365 Stories. He is a dedicated manager, and did not want to be tied up, in the event a customer needed him. However, between his coworker’s convincing and his own curiosity, he agreed. Riz is Pakistan born, but an American through and through. He misses his life on the west coast, and his UCLA days. Riz also loves youtube, and was happy to direct me to some pretty funny videos. Meet Riz…
365 Stories #76 Meet Igor-
I was wondering if I would actually meet a stranger on Christmas. About three days ago, I began to get concerned about where I might meet someone, most stores are closed on Christmas, not to mention the full day of family commitments. To my surprise a stranger ate Christmas dinner with us this year. An elderly member of the family joined us, and he brought along his health aide, Igor. This year Igor gave up Christmas dinner with his own family so that someone else could join their family for the holiday. I was not able to photograph Igor, but I like to think him of as a gift from Santa. Here’s to Igor, and all the other caretakers out there making a difference!
365 Stories #73 Meet Harley
This young woman considers herself a creator. Although most people describe her as an artist, she doesn’t like to be labeled. Harley explains that by the time someone attaches a label to her, she has already changed and the label likely won’t fit. She is honest about having no life plan, but loves the challenge of making something out of nothing, and always doing the unexpected.
365 Stories #74 Meet Azure
In 2011 Azure hopes to right some wrongs. She plans on returning to her high school in Newark, NJ to obtain a diploma. Azure doesn’t want anything for Christmas. Since her parents separated 9 years ago, when she was 10 years old, Azure stopped looking forward to things. But she assures me that each day of life is gift enough for Azure, that and she’s in love.
Extended interviews coming soon…
365 Stories #78 Meet Ronald
On the eve of his retirement, Ronald looks back on 30 years in the fire department. I can tell that this Captain is respected by the firefighters and he will be missed. After fighting fires and facing real life dangers for a living, Ronald now fears the unknown and wonders what the future will bring. Meet Ronald…
If you don’t know The Muppet’s Christmas Carol, or Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas, be sure to put them on your to do list. I miss Jim Henson’s magic. Enjoy! More video after the jump!
As 2010 nears its end, I have already met and interviewed 72 strangers. These stories have reached readers in various ways. Some have been uplifting, motivating, and encouraging, while others have surprised us, and made us question things around us. No matter your reaction, I am grateful to the readers for their loyal following! 365 Stories will return on January 3rd to bring you #73- 86. If you get a chance, take a look at some of the stories already posted. Many of them are better the second time around!
Cheers & Happy Holidays!
365 Stories #72 Meet Yasmeen
The elves at Target are hard at work as the store hours are extended until midnight. This employee was happy to be getting off early… at 11pm. She is recently out of a 6 year relationship, that she ended, however, believes one day they will be together again. Meet Yasmeen…
365 Stories #71 Meet Lia
A train ride can be uneventful, but not today’s ride. Most people get on the train, either heading home, or heading to work. We often sit close enough to strangers that we can hear their conversations, smell their food, or read their books, yet never say a word to one another. This morning it was nice to take a minute to meet a fellow passenger and talk. Meet Lia…
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