Growing up in the 80s and early 90s was a different kind of time. My home life was scattered across pieces of a broken identity, and I spent years searching for a place where I felt safe, validated, and truly belonged. I wasn’t perfect—I was a wild child who hurt others as well as myself. But what changed in me was the decision to let go of what I couldn’t control and stop letting others define my worth.

Labels are easy to throw around. Anyone can say anything about you. But only you know your heart. Only you know your truth.

For me, that truth is rooted in God, the ultimate Creator. I don’t push my beliefs on anyone, but I hold to them as the foundation of my life. And I encourage others to use solitude not as punishment, but as a chance to reflect, to learn yourself, and to build a relationship with the Creator—or whatever source of strength you believe in.

I’ve learned that life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s about owning mistakes, carrying only your own cross, and building value for others and the world. My order of priorities is simple:

God

Myself

My family and children

Some may ask why my children aren’t first. The answer is that if I don’t take care of my relationship with God and my own well-being, I can’t take care of them. By trusting in God and tending to myself, I become the father they need.

I’m not perfect. I carry more cracks than a driveway poured in 1970. But I refuse to put myself down. I refuse to quit. I will keep building a good life for myself and my family, one day at a time.

You are worth it. You’ve always been worth it. Don’t let anyone’s labels weigh you down. Focus on what matters, and remember: if someone isn’t bringing value to your life, they aren’t meant for your life.

God bless you.

“But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.” — Isaiah 40:31
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

James 1:12
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”

Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”