Erik Hastings has been creating, producing and performing since he was a young boy. One of 6 children, he knew at a young age what he liked and disliked. Today, Erik, 'Erik The Travel Guy', is the host of the award winning travel show "Beyond Your Back Yard" on PBS TV.
Erik has always loved music, performing, dance and laughter. He didn't like school. Erik's mother, Gerri, was very clear from the beginning on how exactly he was to get through high school. As an english teacher, she knew the benefits of a great education and wasn't about to let him slip through her fingers. Nor was she going to take any part in his decision to not get out of bed, which meant, she wasn't going to be responsible for him not graduating. She was very specific when she said she wouldn't be attending any parent teacher conferences or discussions when Erik had issues at school. It was his responsibility. If he had to repeat a grade, "he'd have no one to blame but himself."
That said, Erik and his mother were extremely close. She was a devoted and committed mother. She found the joy and humor if life. Having a role model like his mom has helped him raising his two daughters. Erik says one important lesson he learned from his mom is "she was present. She was not 'unavailable' when she was physically present." With all the distractions that we have in life now, this one memory of his mother really helps him with his girls. They are his priority when they're together.
Looking back, Erik recalls how his parents fostered self reliance and individuality. His mother taught english at night to help others who wanted to empower themselves. She often worked with bartenders, cashiers and workers who hoped to get a business degree and change their lives.
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