Though this book is a work of fiction, its result is from memory-facts. Many mesmerizing outcomes ensued from things I did not at first want to do, but did, a jinx that will follow me all through this narrative. My recollections of facts may differ from others. Who is to say whose memory is more factual, as memory can be subjective? Some names have been changed because I don’t wish to misspell them, don’t remember them, or do not want them to call me in the middle of the night to complain that their memories are different from mine. Prejudice and discrimination were common during the time and place of this story, and I may share in some of it, since many events and decisions took place outside my awareness. Who am I to tell? Those I consider good and bad guys may get a different rating by members of their family, and they can write their own, or possibly set me straight, as it has happened before. I interfered in controversial things around me, a history by people I never knew and to be completed by more deserving people than I would ever know. Those good people, better than me, not known and/or never mentioned, whose real power resulted in successes in this story more critical than anything I did, or didn’t do, are the kind of people I am most fond of.
It all began the day I opened my big mouth at a public meeting that ended with some city and government officials engaged in questionable and illegal activities, drastically changing my outlook on life, even if I take to heart that I recognize myself included with those who have not always behaved appropriately. I try to find and undo my own weaknesses and develop my strengths in the use and misuse of power. The value of exposing at times my naked behavior I leave up to the readers. How many people may have stood at the corner of Simpson and Main Avenue, with a smile gazing at the legend of El Tiradito Shrine and La Pilita building and have as a remarkable story to tell as I do? This book deals with how to expose, use, abuse and share power. The evolving emphasis on sharing, to be found by the end of this book, is dedicated to you the reader. Use it well.
