My story is not special, but it is amazing. It is amazing to me. As I look back on my time in the senior legacy group, I realize how important it is to set aside time to be with each other. We need the space to hear each other's not so special but amazing stories. What makes our stories amazing and special are the lessons we learn along the way.

Here is a thumbnail sketch of my life and the lessons learned.

Until I was 50 ish, I thought our parents ended up in Arizona after a long trip from Arkansas in a model A where they ran out of gas and money. My dad got a job painting citrus tree trunks white. I can't remember why they wanted them white. My mother said we lived in chicken coops! This is a fascinating and captivating story but not true. Me and my younger siblings thought it was true and shared with our friends. We were raised to not speak unless spoken to, and therefore we never questioned it. What I learned is history is subjective.

In my 20s, my auntie admonished me that me and my younger siblings never appreciated what she did for us. We were children. What I learned is, I will do for others because I love them and it makes me happy. I won't have expectations of their appreciation. And, I learned something else. It is very possible my auntie was upset with her sister, my mother, and I was a safe place for her to vent.

During my 20s and 30s, I lived a closeted double life. I came to California to try and escape the anxiety that caused. I had such a fear of losing the love of my family. The lesson I learned. Trust yourself and your family. Years later I found out they knew anyway, and they loved me, anyway. After 50 and going through a tough break up, I thought I was going to die. But I then picked up the pieces. My mare was pregnant and I had her to think of. The lesson I learned here was I was stronger than I ever thought I was and people split up and don't die. I was going to be just fine. And then I found Linc and my life took an amazing turn. I found a group of lesbians who met every Friday at a safe place, Palomar universalist fellowship Church. My whole world expanded I found a community that was a culturally, ethnically, economically, and sexually diverse group of people. I found pride! Of all the lessons I learned as a member of LINC what I remember most are the ones that helped me grow as an individual. Thank you LINCers!

As I reflect on where I came from, how I managed my life, and what I could've told my younger self, I don't think she would have asked for advice from an 83-year-old. And wouldn't take it if it was given. All in all, she, I, we have done all right.

I thank the North County LGBTQI Resource Center, Max and the crew of Miracle workers, that has made a safe place for everyone. You have succeeded!

A little Center that could is doing it! With love and sincere gratitude.