Daniel Mutters:  

Why exactly would someone, anyone, want to know what I've been doing during the last 30 years? I've made no social or economic impact on society whatsoever. Neither here nor Abroad. I've saved no lives other than my own. I've climbed no mountains other than those created by me. Though I have fought many battles, some lost, some won. Little difference was felt in the end. Friendships get shattered and enemies get crushed, but who really wins? Perhaps the person with the biggest ego, that feels they won and needs such a victory to inflate their head? I have not revolutionized any industry, nor created any gadgets you can't live without. Though I had the opportunity to work with some that gave it a good shot. I did not Graduate from Havard, Yale or M.I.T. In fact, I didn't complete college at all. Better people than me have died in War, car accidents, from Cancer and other ailments. So why care about what I've been doing? Why not look at those that made a difference. But since you are here. Let me tell you about what really matters to me today, 30 Years after High School. My sole contribution to society, My 22 Year old daughter, Desiree, who graduated from Monterey High with the 100th graduating class. Though we have not had anything remotely close to a good relationship, she is the absolute only contribution I have made. Perhaps, with her big heart and cheerful disposition, she will do what I never did. Make a difference. Let me tell you what has made a difference in my life. My wife of 17 years who has tolerated me for so long, through thick and thin. She could have and probably should have kicked me to the curve (like my first wife did) several times over the years. But she didn't, because she had faith that someday, I would be friend she couldn't live without. I hope I never let her down again. She deserves the best in life. During the last 8 years, I've learned to appreciate life, especially after coming so close to loosing my own and having my heart ripped from my chest when my relationship with my daughter was severed. I filled that gap with my love for animals. My baby Taz, Chihuahua-Terrier mix was the joy of my life for years. Until her passing last month. A gap I'll never fill. She was so incredibly smart. Jake the Scrubjay is a rescued bird who was saved from a certain demise with his brother Lou (who passed shortly after rescue). When he joined our family four years ago, I hand fed him until he was old enough to peck the crap out of my hand. Fiercely independent and fully of life. He maintains that status and reminds me daily. He loves to dance for me. It's a dance rarely seen in nature by the typical casual observer and well worth it. Puppy, full blooded Chihuahua, has the genes made of cast iron. He joined our family near the beginning. He's almost 20 years old, has no clue that life is temporary. He has a heart of gold, no teeth and the brains of a rodent. Bless his heart. I don't know what we'd do without him, maybe carpet the house without fear? We have a Parakeet and several finches. Little Girl- Terrier Mix - She was rescured ...Expand for more