Growing up in the small town of Newark, California, my childhood was shaped by a blend of simplicity, creativity, and curiosity. Raised in a traditional home with a mother who devoted herself to our family and a father who was the provider, I was blessed with an environment that encouraged exploration and self-expression.
The Early Days: A Playground of Curiosity
In my early years, my world was the neighborhood, the nearby hills, and the many hobbies that kept my mind and hands busy. I wasn’t one for sitting idle. Whether it was playing sports with friends, riding my bike around the block, or hiking through the hills, I was always outside exploring. But it wasn’t just physical activities that interested me; I had a deep fascination with science and art, two areas that would later define my personal and professional life.
I built a meteorology station in my bedroom, where I could track the weather and learn about the world of meteorology. My grandmother, an artist, taught me how to paint with oils, which opened my eyes to the world of creative expression. Both of these hobbies connected me to the world in different ways: science offered a logical, structured view of nature, while art provided an emotional, personal connection to the beauty around me.
These early experiences laid the foundation for a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. I was curious about how things worked, whether it was the weather or a paintbrush. It was this curiosity that led me to pursue an education in engineering and later, physics and political science.
The Bridge Between Science and Art
As I ventured into the world of electrical engineering, the connection between science and art became even more apparent. My work as an electrical engineer, particularly in military electronics and consumer electronics, provided me with the opportunity to apply the scientific principles I had learned. I participated in the design evolution of cell phones, witnessing the transformation of a device from the size of a brick to something as small as a candy bar. This process of designing and refining technology was as much an art as it was science.
In both engineering and art, I discovered a shared desire to create something from nothing. Whether it was developing complex circuits or designing a painting, the process of bringing an idea to life was a deeply fulfilling experience. Science provided the tools and understanding, while art infused the work with creativity and purpose.
Writing as a Medium for Reflection
In the latter part of my career, I transitioned into writing, where I could combine the lessons I had learned from both science and art. Writing allowed me to share my thoughts, experiences, and insights in a way that was both logical and emotional. I wrote a book and lectured on American history and the U.S. Constitution, where I could blend my knowledge of science with my passion for history and storytelling.
In my book and lectures, I often found myself drawing parallels between the principles of science and the founding ideas of the American government. Both are rooted in reason, structure, and an understanding of human nature. My experience as an engineer helped me approach the complex ideas of history and politics with a logical mindset, while my artistic background allowed me to tell these stories in a way that resonated with my audience on a deeper level.
The Four Pillars: A Guiding Philosophy
Throughout my life, I have been guided by a philosophy I refer to as “The Four Pillars.” These pillars represent the core values and principles that have shaped my life’s work: knowledge, creativity, service, and family. The intersection of art, science, and writing in my life is a direct reflection of these pillars.
Knowledge: My love for learning and discovery has driven my pursuit of education, both formal and informal. From earning multiple degrees in engineering, physics, and political science to teaching as an adjunct professor, I have always sought to expand my understanding of the world.
Creativity: Whether through art, engineering, or writing, creativity has been the spark that drives me to create and innovate. It has allowed me to see the world in new ways and approach problems with a fresh perspective.
Service: After spending years in industries focused on destruction, I found peace in working for a non-profit organization, conducting outreach classes, and farming. I believe that true fulfillment comes from giving back to others and using one’s talents to make a positive impact.
Family: At the heart of everything I do is my family. My wife, children, and grandchildren have been my greatest source of joy and motivation. It is through them that I have learned the true meaning of love, sacrifice, and purpose.
Looking Forward: The Intersection Continues
Now, as I live on a 20-acre family farm in Temecula, California, I continue to explore the intersections of art, science, and writing. I enjoy gardening, creating art, and reflecting on the lessons I’ve learned throughout my life. My journey is far from over, and I believe that the intersection of these three elements will continue to shape my future endeavors.
In many ways, life itself is an art form, and the process of learning, creating, and reflecting is an ongoing masterpiece. As I continue to write and share my story, I hope to inspire others to find their own intersection of art, science, and writing – to explore the world with curiosity, create with passion, and reflect with purpose.
Conclusion
The intersection of art, science, and writing in my life has been a journey of discovery, creation, and reflection. Each of these elements has contributed to who I am today and how I approach the world around me. They have shaped my career, my family life, and my personal philosophy. I encourage others to find their own intersection – to blend their passions, knowledge, and creativity in ways that will bring fulfillment and meaning to their lives.
The journey of art, science, and writing is a lifelong adventure, and it’s one that I am grateful to continue exploring.
