i have achieved nothing specifically as a humanist. as a human being i have taught a lot of teens and young adults to think, not WHAT to think but HOW to think, how to use logic, and how to value themselves as human beings. i helped one young man discover what he wanted to do with his life, and no, i did not guide him -- he found his way. i hope my writings have meant something to some people. i hope i have changed the life of my guy for the better. i don't know what else i have achieved that is outstanding. maybe i have achieved some things without knowing it; i hope i have. i'd hate to think i was keeping a list!

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Since 2006, I have been a volunteer college mentor at Wenatchee High School. I help low income, first generation students write essays for college and scholarship applications. Also I teach them organization and the importance of completing deadlines early.

One of my best success stories is Brenda, who won $269,545 in scholarships in 2016. A sophomore at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, Brenda plans to become a medical doctor and pathologist. She hopes to cure diseases.

They are the first person in their family to go to college. It thrills me to send these kids to college.

I'm a rockstar! Last May, I was awarded the first "Scholarship Rockstar" award from the College Mentor Program, Wenatchee High School.

In June 2018, I took three students I previously mentored on a short, beautiful hike around Icicle Gorge.

From the left: Tammy plans to become a neurosurgeon; Elisabeth will be a pediatrician; me, and Teresa, is studying to be an accountant. An enthusiastic community volunteer, Teresa has been asked to run for public office as a Democrat.

Photo #3: I'm second from the left with other volunteer college mentors who won awards.

Between 1986 and today, I've taught literally hundreds of people how to play the violin and mandolin. Music gives people joy. I feel pretty good about that.