Trying to understand the other, I stumble upon myself.

(Wow, where did that come from?)

I have been writing most my life. Short stories, and now books. Five of them in progress. Does that hint of attention deficit disorder? Two are in final draft, three more in early draft. Heart of the Quetzal is the first book of a trilogy set in the backdrop of Guatemala history. Also ready for publication is my English translation (yet to be named) of the French memoir written by Bob Sheppard, a World War II hero of the French resistance.

So what drives me — besides coffee and Fruit Loops?

My whole life, I have tried to identify with those who are less fortunate than I. The mere fact that I can say that betrays a privileged status as well as some sort of discomfort with that. Hence, my messy journey. I study theology, move to Chicago, live with those whose skin is a different color. I learn from those we call poor — kids on the street, refugees of war, broken families trying to survive in a system beyond our control. I go to their places of origin to which many cannot return. I get involved. At times, it’s overwhelming. My career in Information Technology has provided a sort of escape valve — as well as a constant reminder that I am part of the fortunate few who can retreat. And write. I follow my characters as they tell me their story and beckon me to come out of my four walls, my thin veneer.

A scary proposition. For in the end, it is still myself whom I must confront.

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I welcome your feedback. Please feel free to contact me (if only to let me know your favorite cereal).

– David Lindstrom “PencilDave”