Introduction: Emotions on Sharing My Life Story

Why write a memoir? Why write it now? In this brief introduction, I explain the reasons for preserving family stories and why age 74 seemed the right time to begin this journey.

Chapter 1: Early Days in Kansas City

Some scenes in Prairie Village, my first words, my first book sale, and so much more.

Chapter 2: Prairie Village settings

Bookshop Judaica, “The Knife,” neighbourhood adventures, and life in the little subdivision of Meadowlake.

Chapter 3: Meet the Parents

My mother’s quiet strength, my father’s relentless work ethic, and the family legacy that helped shape who I would become.

Chapter 4: The Magic of Play

Baseball cards, comic books, World Books, neighbourhood games, and plenty of laughter. These ordinary moments shaped a curious young boy whose love of learning—and finding humour in life—would stay with him forever.

Chapter 5: Dreaming

As a young boy, I dreamed of becoming a doctor. Along the way, teachers, family, books, and unexpected experiences broadened my horizons and planted ideas that would eventually lead me in a very different direction.

Chapter 6: Becoming Me

Role models, first jobs, favourite meals, and unexpected experiences all helped shape the values, calling, and direction of my life.

Chapter 7: Adventures along the way

From suburban streets to the summit of Kilimanjaro, and from student protests to moments requiring real courage, these experiences challenged me to ask what adventure—and bravery—really mean.

Chapter 8: When Confidence outruns Preparation

Looking back, I can see times when confidence served me well—and times when it got me into trouble. This chapter explores both, culminating in the extraordinary recovery of my stolen camera through a combination of technology, community, persistence, and what I can only describe as God’s gracious hand.