I debated to write anything but decided to share. I write to share a message of hope. 4 years ago, a new journey began (5/26/13)……. And another one ended……Ironic isn’t it, it falls around Memorial Day. This is moment each year, where I now reflect on hope and courage. Life was never bad, but I came to realize I was walking a path where I wasn’t myself. My true self. We all suffer in different capacities, mine was addiction. Alcohol was the enemy and it was winning the war. Through grace, luck, courage and the help of others I reemerged. Shaken but not stirred…. I'm forever grateful and humbled by a second chance at life. I share this not to boast, but because I want to share that there is always a way to discover hope, to discover change. We must have courage to change. And if you choose hope and courage, anything is possible. I feel - if you open your mind - you will discover that fortuitous things start happening organically...... Feeling stuck? Then I bet, if you reach out, listen, I mean really listen…. or choose to open up a little, courage and hope will find you on your own….. or with the help of others. Try it, you might be surprised by what you find. If you don't know who to ask, ask me. I'll lend a hand.

Through my journey I've discovered we must find things that resonate within to help drive us forward. In my case, one example, is sharing adventures through this bookFace thing. If I can provide a sliver of inspiration or take someone to a new place, if even for a moment, then I've succeeded. A sincere thank you to all my friends who have encouraged me to share!

A wise man (my old high school soccer coach for those of you who know Dr. Abboud) once told me (and others) a few genius words I will never forget. 20 years ago he said; we are Lions of the Den, Mold Breakers and Trailblazers..... it took me a while to fully comprehend what that meant to me, and how to use it. I’m still learning how to apply that today.... but if I remember words like that, it is a guide, an inspiration, a moment to reflect. I believe the point is anyone can write their own story, choose your own adventure (remember those books?), start over, push the restart button. And this doesn’t have to be life changing moments. It can be restarting a day after a bad morning. For example, a hard moment hits you, then stand up, walk a few steps, close your eyes, take a deep breath, turn around and walk the other way…. Shazaaaaaam… a new day has begun.

Lastly: It's funny where inspiration comes from. Jim Carrey once said we can choose to live life through love or fear. That so many of us choose our path out of fear disguised as practicality……. I’ll choose love, and see where life takes me.

I believe in: Reflecting on the past (never regret it), live for today and have hope for tomorrow (the future). Find what resonates for you and perhaps share your Perspective. You could be helping others, or even helping yourself!

#hope #courage #discovery