Скачать или смотреть On Tuesday Dec 1, 2020, I hurried to Venice Beach to view the sunset.

Later that evening, unaware of the tragic events that unfolded due to gun violence, I unexpectedly found myself observing the aftermath of the sun setting on Ky Alicia Thomas for the final time. She was a former Pasadena resident who died that night. Like me, Ky visited the beach that day to watch the sunset, too. Over three decades, I've heard as many gunshots as I've heard doorbells ringing. I was relieved to know that I didn't hear the ominous sound of gunshots pierce the evening air on that night.

During my childhood, I loved visiting California's beaches, from Redondo to Malibu, with my family and community and on school field trips. As an adult, I discovered comfort in setting aside regular moments near the water. This calmed my nerves and allowed for deep contemplation about my life's purpose. These routines offered a refreshing break from haunting memories starting in 1991, which frequently invaded my thoughts. The peaceful beaches were a crucial barrier, preventing me from making choices I'd regret and saving me from treating others as targets, even when they deserved my wrath. But I understood by harming others, I'd hurt myself. Whenever I viewed the stunning sunset over the Santa Monica mountains, I felt captivated and thankful for another day of life, hoping to witness tomorrow's sunrise and sunset.

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