Roland Beauford

What do you do in your spare time?
I’ve always been interested in electronics and computers. My hobby goes back to the early 1960s when my father and I built a crystal radio for a science fair at my school, and I’ve been hooked ever since. I usually spend any free and unallocated time with my hobby. Technology has really changed the way we think, live, and socially connect with family and friends.
What pivotal decision helped to shape your life?
Getting involved in sports at an early age. One field led to another and with that exposure, it eventually led me to college. A college education allowed me to explore and choose advantage points. I really believe kids who participate in sports tend to do better as adults. I think sports change your life for the better.
Tell us about a way you have changed over the years.
I have more patience. I have learned over the years that the phrase “patience is a virtue” is so true and dynamic. Patience is something you have to use each and every day whether you want to or not. It’s also a thought in life you have to practice. Like anything else, you have to practice something to be good at it. As individuals, we don’t have the ability to change many things at our whim. There are not many ideals that you can force in a direction. Many times you have to let them come to you.
What has surprised you about life?
I guess the biggest surprise is the birth of my two daughters and my granddaughter. It has yet to fail how much joy and love radiates from them to me and me to them. I am so proud of what they have accomplished. They truly represent God’s gift to me and I am thankful.
What’s one thing that you hope to accomplish before you die?
To write and publish a book. I’m currently in the process of writing a cookbook with a particular theme. I started about two years ago but I found out it’s harder than you think to get thoughts into print. But I’m almost there!
Tell us about one of your regrets.
I’m not sure that I have any regrets. I look at things from the standpoint that life is short and there is a reason for everything that happens. So I conclude I have no regrets!
What quote or saying do you connect with most? Why do you like it?
“Every man get one man, every good man get two.” It was stated to me by my college football coach. It means that you never give up at anything you do. You must possess the determination and resolve to complete a task or assignment. It’s a saying that has stuck in my head ever since my college days. That saying is a sure way to be successful in whatever goals and aspirations you want to accomplish in life.