I used to live in Mission Valley… now I live in Mission Valley.

Soon after moving to San Diego to join the 10News team, I came upon an unfortunate realization. I am what locals refer to as a “transplant.” At first, I felt a sense of dread. The word conjures a harsh sense of not belonging. Much later, I began to think of the word’s positive connotations. The word “transplant,” as in organ transplant, is one which gives hope, a second chance, and an improved quality of life. The meaning and interpretation of words are at the heart of what I deal with ever day at 10News. Just as when I grew up in El Paso, Texas in an area of town known as the “Lower Valley.” Talk about negative connotations. Some very smart people, whom I never had the pleasure of meeting, decided a name change would spruce up my native enclave’s image. They were inspired by our most treasured feature: our missions. Hence, I lived in Mission Valley, and now I call Mission Valley my home. I used to live in a border town. Now, I live not too far from one. And I used to work at an ABC affiliate. Now I work at another. Having moved to a place that shares so many similarities has made me feel less like a stranger in America’s Finest City, and more like a kindred spirit. One who can finally drive to a beach in less than 10 minutes.

Submitted by David Gonzalez, Senior Promotions Producer.

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