I’m a huge fan and supporter of The Guardian, the British daily “newspaper”. It’s where I get most of the morning news and, on the weekends, I truly enjoy the lifestyle section where public figures answer basically the same questions. This morning was the Q&A with Matthew Modine and it got me thinking: How would I answer these?

When were you happiest?

This morning.

What is your greatest fear?

Not accomplishing all my goals.

Which living person do you most admire, and why?

Dolly Parton. I am not a fan of country music, but Dolly seems to always be on the right side of everything, living her best life always, using her power for good and is a magnificent artist.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

Pride. Maybe.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

Lack of compassion.

Apart from property, what’s the most expensive thing you’ve bought?

(I hate this answer because it’s so cliché) – Shoes. I have spent too much money on shoes.

Describe yourself in three words:

Optimistic. Compassionate. Exhausted.

What makes you unhappy?

Lack of compassion.

What do you most dislike about your appearance?

As I get older, there is something happening to my neck, and I am not liking it at all!

If you could bring something extinct back to life, what would you choose?

My mom.

Which book are you ashamed not to have read?

The list is long, but I’m working on it.

Would you choose fame or anonymity?

Ultimately, anonymity would be my choice. But in my perfect world, I would choose that some people recognize me, but that most do not. For example, I would have loved to have been an actor on Star Trek (TNG) as a Cardassian where only true fans of the show would even bother to search out who the actor(s) might be. Something like that would be awesome! To be known for something, but not by everyone on the daily.

What is your guiltiest pleasure?

Chocolate Cake.

What do you owe your parents?

My father, nothing. Because I don’t know a thing about him.

My mom, everything. I still miss her after all these years.

What or who is the greatest love of your life?

What – would be music.

Who – I haven’t decided yet.

Have you ever said ‘I love you’ and not meant it?

No. I love fiercely and with intention.

What is the worst job you’ve done?

When I first moved to California, I was able to get a place that was listed as “free room and board for light housekeeping.”  The work was physically so hard and emotionally taxing. I had a new appreciation for what my mother had done for work to make ends meet.

What has been your biggest disappointment?

Not accomplishing MY goals. I think I still have time, so we’ll see. Crossing my fingers.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Without sarcasm, surviving. Especially when I was just a kid.

What has been your closest brush with the law?

I’m a Black Latina woman. I follow the rules to perfection because if I don’t…

What keeps you awake at night?

My inconsiderate neighbors.

Would you rather have more sex, money or fame?

Equally a lot more of all of it. Less the fame part.

What is the most important lesson life has taught you?

That continuously falling down is part of “it”. And getting up each time is how you move forward in life.

How would you like to be remembered?

That I did okay.

Happy 2023 everyone!

With Joy,

Carmen