Michael Fielden:  

Life It all began quite simply, with the question: "Who am I?" It became amusing when I discovered that the answer was very unclear. Some words came to mind: intelligent, passionate, caring, mischievous, honest... but the essence of how to describe the person eluded me. Perhaps if I were to explain experiences, you will see the person that I am, and explore what I have become. And, as you read through some of the hyperbole, know that it is only as an effort to more eloquently share of myself, and not relate myself as anything more than who I am. And so my story begins -- I've sailed the seven seas, and I've walked barefoot on distant shores. I've wandered the alleyways of New York at night, and the slums of Brooklyn on a cold winter afternoon. I've played with young children and swapped stories of how "it used to be" with old men. I've relished the passion of a cold winter rainstorm, and marveled at the bright colorful rainbows of spring. I've crossed deserts in summer to gain the realization that life can be as simple as the water in a canteen. I've held the dying in my arms, and shared the joys of a newborn child. I've known the manicured hands of an executive, and worked in the fields to experience the pains and pleasures of a migrant worker. I've climbed mountains and wandered through caves. I've feared oppression, and battled for free speech and human rights. I believe in people, and goodness, and desire. I've read Uncle Tom's Cabin and Poetry from the communist Pablo Neruda. I've known love that has no bounds, and the pain that comes from the changing heart. I've lived the life of a pauper, and known the wealth of a king. But, with all that I have done and all that I have learned, what stands out most in my memory, are the friends that have joined me on these journeys, and...Expand for more