325. Interview yourself ten years from now . . .

Good afternoon Ladies and Gentlemen! Today we have a very special guest who we will be talking to here on the Donahue Show. He is a stock broker for Kidder – Peabody, Father of two and husband to one terrific lady. Let’s bring out Code #10…

Phil: So you graduated from West Virginia University?

10: Yes, in 1994 as a matter of fact.

Phil: How was that experience?

10: Well, looking back on it, it was probably the greatest time of my life. I remember all the friends I made, the parties I went to, the classes I took, and the teachers I had. The people and images that came from that place were some of the most influential I have ever been around. I don’t really wish I was back there, but I am going to cherish those memories forever.

Phil: What was it about WVU that really turned you on?

10: Everything! For example, when I was a freshman, I remember going to my first football game and the feelings it brought out in me. I had never felt so attached to single place in my life. Even in High School, where I was a three-sport varsity letterman, I didn’t identify with my surroundings. I just absolutely fell in love with the people and school. All of that carried over into my academics; where I finally came out of my shell and began getting the grades I always should have.

Phil: What did you do after graduation?

10: Well, midway through the first semester of my senior year I was offered a job as a stock broker. That was really exciting! I remember hearing that and really finally understanding what my hard work was all about. But, I’ll tell you this much, it was sure hard continuing that hard work.

Phil: So you took the job and you are obviously did well, then what?

10: Well, I started working and I finally asked my long-time girlfriend to (gulp) marry me. She said yes and we set a date. Getting prepared for that was probably the most stressful time of my life. But, let me tell you, it was worth the stress and the wait.

Phil: How do you like being a Father?

10: I love it. Probably more than I imagined I would. Since I was young I have always loved kids. The fact that you can make life and then mold it is a very powerful thing. It is a power that should not be abused, and unfortunately more times than not, it is.

Phil: You once said that your parents and little sister are the most influential people in your life. Why and is this still true?

10: Yes, I believe it is. Although I would have to add my wife to that list now. I have always thought of my parents as being very wise people. I have always tried to respect their wisdom and listen very carefully to what they have to say. They gave me life — how much more important can they be? My sister, well she is still one of the most loving and caring people I know. All you have to do is just ask and she will deliver. My wife goes in there because we are not only in love, but also in a partnership. We raise our children together, live together, and support each other.

Phil: Do you feel as though you have accomplished what you have wanted to this point?

10: Mostly, I have a great family, A great job, plenty of money. The only thing I would like to do is be able to spend more time with my family. That has been my number one priority from day one. I would love to pack it in and retire in a few years. Maybe then I could finish my doctorate and do some part-time teaching.

Phil: Is that something you’ve always wanted to do?

10: When I started college that is what I wanted to do. But then I got this job offer and it kind of set those plans aside. This offer was something I had to take. It was just too good of an opportunity to pass up. I always thought I would go on to get an advanced degree, I just didn’t know when.

Phil: Looking at your life ten years ago, did you ever imagine it would turn out like this or were you really afraid of the future.?

10: Well, looking back I would have to say that I thought I could be here, I just wasn’t sure that everything would pan out the way it has. As for being afraid of the future, I would have to say no. I try not to fear the future because it is always showing up. If the future were something to be feared, I think I would do something about it so I could get on with my life.

Phil: Thanks for your time.

10: No, thank-you.

Obviously, this is a lot of supposing but I do feel as though my life will resemble this scenario someday. I can only hope that I can get there from here in only ten years. This has been a very enlightening project, I am going to keep it and look back on it when my ten-year reunion rolls around. Hopefully we’ll talk about it.