WHO YOU ARE MATTERS
Where do I come from?
I grew up in Manhattan Beach, California, just a short distance down the street from USC.
Where am I going?
"The future is not set. There is no fate but what we make for ourselves." -Quote from Terminator 2
How do I plan to get there?
"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." -Quote from Ferris Bueller's Day Off
My parents are my rock, I strive to be like them everyday I wake up. Like my dad hardworking, determined, and unafraid of any challenge. Like my mom caring, understanding, and the life of any room she walks into. Without them I honestly don't know where I would be today.
How am I UNLIKE my parents?
Like everyone, I am my own person. Although they are my role models, and always will be long after they are gone, I never strive to copy them. They have taught me how to act since I was young, and I have developed into someone that has used those qualities to shape the way that I act. Although if I had to pick a quality, I have a better sense of humor than both of them combined.
Have you developed your own expectations for yourself?
Yes, I have my own set expectations for myself, and will never let anyone tell me what I can and cannot do. Sure, my parents push me to do my best, but I never do things strictly for them. I spent my entire freshman year in Italy, having to make all new friends, and learn how to act in a completely new culture. Since then, I have developed a new sense of independence and understanding about what I want from my life. Although I will always have my family to rely on, it is up to me to go out and achieve greatness. Relying on others to get me there isn't what I want for myself.
Who, other than a relative, serves as a model for you?
Growing up I got the chance to meet David Beckham. As I kid I grew up playing soccer, and was inspired by him. He has always showed great respect for the people around him, and never let the fame completely destroy him. He still to this day is a very respected individual, and great family man.
What wild animal do you feel a special connection with, and why?
Weirdly enough I feel a special connection to a gorilla. They are one of the biggest, strongest, and smartest animals on the planet, while also being amazingly empathetic creatures.
Describe a significant childhood encounter with a tree or plant.
When I was younger, my family took a road trip up north to San Luis Obispo. We did a 5 day camping trip, and while we were camping we took a hike into the forest to look for some kind of fishing hole. As we were walking, I ran off the path to try and catch a lizard. However, I never caught the lizard, instead I ran through a patch of poison ivy bushes. I had no idea such thing existed so I though nothing of it. Surely enough, about an hour later, I started to itch from head to toe. I honestly thought I was gonna die from the pain. I rushed to the hospital and the nurses said I just have to tough it out. I really grew up a lot that trip.
BIRTH CHART
SUN: Aries
MOON: Cancer
RISING: Aries
I have had the same experience with running into poison ivy as a kid, thankfully I was near a pool and jumped in. Apparently the chlorine helps the itch, I dunno southern things I guess. And I love San Luis Obispo, such a chill place to cruise around.
ReplyDeleteBrenton, outside of the wonderfully written blog I wanted to point out that your use of pictures and quotes was very clever and entertaining! I thoroughly enjoyed your comparison to your parents as I feel I'm on a similar boat, and I laughed at the sense of humor comment. As a Miami kid, David Beckham holds a special place in my heart as well seeing as how he's building something special for my city!
ReplyDeleteHello Brenton, as soon as I saw the Terminator quote I knew I wanted to comment about it. Great quote selection foe the question at hand. Also, meeting David Beckham must have been incredible. As a life-long soccer fan myself, I envy you. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteFirstly, it is so cool that you grew up in Manhattan Beach. I can only imagine what it was like growing up there. I really liked the point you made about having your family to rely on yet depending on yourself to achieve your goals is important to you. I think that is so important acknowledging your family's place in all of it. Lastly, YIKEs about the poison ivy that is no fun at all. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteBrenton, your writing is super fun to read. Thank you so much for sharing. I really connected with how your parents are your rock; they are for me and appreciate how we have the same perspective. Can't wait to read more of your work!
ReplyDeleteHi Brenton! I really enjoyed reading your blog, the pictures were really cool. Although I have only visited Manhattan Beach a few times, I think you're so lucky to have grew up there. I love the beach. How was Italy? I have always wanted to visit.
ReplyDeleteBrenton, as a movie buff myself I love your integration of movie quotes into your blog, I'm a huge sci-fi fan myself! Terminator 2 is probably my dad's favorite instalment in the series so we rewatch it pretty often. Love to see it getting some recognition!
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