Fresh out of high school, my life plans where to become a musician. I played in and day out with my best friend, Boner. When Boner died of an overdose, My dreams of becoming a musician died with him. I suddenly embarked on a journey of self discovery through meditation and found my spiritual mentor MANUEL the most humble human being I’ve ever met, enlightened me to the teachings of Carlos Castaneda and other Spiritual guides. Manuel lived to paint, and listened only to one musician ROBERT MARLEY. One day Manuel suggested that I should give painting a try, so he told me to purchase a canvas and he would provide the rest. After our first painting session, Manuel said to me,” This is what you were meant to do in life, this is your calling, I’m sure of it.” He then offered to gift me his painting set, which was basically his only material possession other that a car he shared with his father. Considering his limited resources and the importance that painting took in his life I refused at first, but he then insisted, and went as far as telling me that if I did not accept his painting kit (all his paints, brushes, etc.) he would disappear from my life and I would never see him again, so I reluctantly accepted. I’ve been painting ever since, and came to accept this as my life’s calling after painting took over my life.