I retired in 2000. I worked as a Management Analyst: designing forms, charts, graphs, incorporating 16 languages and other forms of information collections for food safety. I have always wanted to travel and experience other cultures. I was influenced by my father's stories of his travels during the Second World War. I want to experience the culture of the country I visit, not just to see the sights. Brazil (4 times) and Japan (3 times) are my favorite destinations. I have also travelled to Europe, Jordan, Israel and Egypt. When I travelled to Ghana and visited the Door of No Return, I was so overcome with emotion, as were many others in the group. The local Africans did not understand why we were so emotional and why we cried. We could feel the spirits of those who were forced into slavery. I could not speak of it for a long time. I have been in the arts for over 50 years: as a graphic artist, writer, poet, and actor. I travelled with Encore Theater Company of Washington DC. We performed locally, nationally and internationally at the Toyama Theater Festival in Japan. I am a member and Archivist of Black Artists of DC. I produce and publish Jembe, BADC's annual list of accomplishments. I enjoy culinary skills. I took a year of Chinese cooking from Joan Shih. She was a friend of Martin Yann and when he came to DC to introduce his new cookware, he asked Joan to send him two students to help with his demonstration. I was one of the students selected. We cooked and dined with Mr. Yann. I tell everyone to write their story. In time you may forget so write it now! I started mine when I was 42 years old. With God's grace I shall be 80 years old this year. We all have a story; write it down for those who follower you.