CURRENT MISSION

To live a good and simple life and so others can too :)

ABOUT ME

I work as school teacher and as a writer. I write poetry, prose, short-stories, and non-fiction articles on politics, social activism, comparative religion/cultures, and whatever else tickles my fancy. I've also been in management, non-profit, banking/loans, and retail management.

I'm an independent thinker. So for example I'm very eco-conscious, but think a lot of the green movement has recently become a fad capitalized by corporations. I'm a lover of all things outdoors and a martial arts instructor. I absolutely love learning and philosophy; talking with people to learn their philosophies and about deep subjects is just a deep part of me and who I've always been.

PHILOSOPHY

To spread freedom and love. I believe in warmth, compassion, unity, amity, truth, justice, beauty, and seeking peace. I try to see all sides and look at things from a variety of perspectives. I believe what we do is more important than what we say or think. I'm my own person, independent in politics and Judaism for example. I accept people of other faiths and welcome people; I don't believe in proselytizing (political or religious) and value open, peaceful communication.

I'm part of the Spanish-Portuguese Jewish tradition. I believe in compassion & kindness/tolerance for others - especially those who are different. I keep kosher so if you need a kosher couch or if you're interested in learning about Judaism, I'd be happy to host. I'm very into being "groovy," egalitarian feminism, and loving peace. I believe in inclusivism and pluralism.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

I've been hosted, played host, but mostly meet up to chat and tour around.

Interests

Studying, laughing, reading, writing, health, philosophy, movies, music, travel, reading, hiking, mountain biking, martial arts, qi gong / chi kung, playing with cat, walking the kitty (yes, on a leash), snowboarding, wakeboarding, frisbee, target shooting, surfing, volleyball, and lots more! :)

• cats
• arts
• writing
• poetry
• folklore
• beauty
• womens rights
• instructor
• walking
• politics
• movies
• reading
• traveling
• music
• outdoor activities
• cycling
• hiking
• hunting
• surfing
• snowboarding
• wakeboarding
• martial arts
• volleyball
• teaching
• religion

Music, Movies, and Books

Movies: Seven Samurai, Pulp Fiction, Garden State, Enemy of the State, Leon: The Professional, Man on Fire, the Rocky franchise, the Godfather series, Down With Love, Loser, Wedding Singer, Wedding Crashers, Munich, Never Die Alone, Be Cool, Constant Gardener, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days...too many more!

Music: all kinds! I enjoy music with a beat, something to make your pulse move or to inspire joy!

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I've hiked (as a minimalist) trailblazing up Big Bear, CA in the snow and had a couple near-death experiences. But once we got to the top, it was breathtaking and inspiring! Thankfully, we survived the winds, cold, encroaching nightfall, and other dangers. :)

Graduated NYU with a masters!

Teach, Learn, Share

Before thinking you know something or why someone did something, ask yourself why you think that way and if there are other ways you could look at it. Often times, we are too quick to judge one another. There may be many things going on inside a person to cause their behavior or speech; it might not be all bad (or good!).

Smile, it goes a long way! :D

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, Israel, Mexico, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Israel, United States