CURRENT MISSION

To learn from all and contribute where I see fit; my goal is to facilitate positive growth wherever possible.

ABOUT ME

I grew up in southern California so by proxy I enjoy nature and all types of physical activity. Now I am in Leipzig, Germany for a few months to work on a project at the University. Most recently I lived on the outskirts of UC Santa Barbara, and for the last few years I have worked forming cooperative living arrangements and as a resident director for undergrads. Needless to say I've seen my fair share of depravity, but I am not discouraged! I am shamelessly optimistic and adventurous.

PHILOSOPHY

If you can read a book, balance a check, tie your shoes or dance the hokie-pokie, you have something to offer the world. "I am the first example the world sees on how to love me, I have better be a great example."-Lisa Nicols

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I host, I surf, I enjoy meeting people.

I grew up with parents who made hospitality a livable virtue, I hope to keep that virtue strong and alive.

Travel carries with it a certain aura of unfamiliarity and often forces individuals outside their comfort zones. While respecting the nature of travel, I wish to combat any deficit of comfort by sharing with travelers and locals alike the values I hold true and dear. This means taking the strange out of stranger, and treating others with the same amount of respect that I offer myself. The cost of hosting is small but the rewards are potentially infinite. Economic metaphors aside, I have been shown a beautiful generosity and helpfulness associated with the concept of Couchsurfing and find these values to align with my own. If given the opportunity to share and grow with others, it will take quite a bit to dissuade me from doing so.

Interests

Practicing patience, mindful interactions, and staying true to my word.

• books
• traveling
• socializing
• music
• guitar

Music, Movies, and Books

The Alchemist excites me; I have a fantastic dream of traveling abroad some day.

Each day is an adventure.

It's the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting.

Movies: thought provoking social commentaries, terrible action films, documentaries, and just about anything, excluding low-budget or blockbuster horror - I find Trainspotting to be more horrifying than Paranormal Activity. I have seen both, but the latter fails to compare.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Giving people time who really need a friend. Some may consider this pitying, but I think the cornerstone of love is giving without concern of reciprocity.

Witnessing the empowering effects that making oneself vulnerable have on individuals fearful of vulnerability themselves.

Teach, Learn, Share

Mutual respect, when present between individuals or groups, is a beautiful model of what to strive for in relationships. When staying with me, I will treat you with kindness and generosity.

Reciprocity is never forced in my home but a lack of respect is quickly recognized.

What I Can Share with Hosts

A decent meal, company, and maybe some laughs or conversation.

I can fool around on the guitar and love to make music with a good spirit.

Countries I’ve Visited

Costa Rica, Côte d'Ivoire, Germany, Ghana, Mexico, Morocco, Oman, Spain, United Arab Emirates

Countries I’ve Lived In

Germany, Ghana, United States

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