I am the youngest of four siblings. My sister and two brothers all have dark hair. I was born a blue-eyed blonde. My hair was so light that I was almost a tow-head. But my hair didn't stay blonde. Down through the years it gradually got darker until it became brown. Now being blonde when everyone else in the family has very dark hair makes life interesting. I never felt like I fit.

My mother wanted a girl so so taught me to cook and iron clothes and clean house. Not exactly 'manly" things. However, these were very valuable to me when my first wife got sick with cancer. I was able to take care of her and our three kids until she passed away.

 I also have the ability to look at things from a very different viewpoint than most people. Even though others may eventually agree with me they do not appreciate that I dont just agree with everyone else. There is a pharse, "On the outside looking in." I am on the outside looking out.

 I have been successful in my second marriage; 27 years. I chose a woman who loved me and loved my kids. I ahve had an interesting career. When I lost my job the day after the World Trade Center came down, I went back to college and ended up teaching English in China for four years. Being different has its advantages. People rain on my parade but they ahven't gone the places and I have gone and havent dared to do some of the things I have done.

Vive la diference

 Donald Hallock