I'd undertake a brutally honest assessment of the reflection in the mirror after experiencing the worst regret in my life in late spring 2003—not an easy task. But to figure out and overcome what held me back from proposing and marrying Jill, I couldn't allow anything to continue taking up space in my mind, living rent-free, impacting my present or future.

Adrienne is who I confided in. Nothing earth-shattering, but it brought us closer long before we ever talked about marriage. Loved ones would test me a decade later, including one who had me feeling almost broken at times. Its outcome was unfortunate, but the life lessons were invaluable. I became spiritually aware in my teens—I wouldn't know its name until decades later.

As a spiritual being on a human journey, I needed to learn more about myself and grow. Hindsight would confirm this and the purpose for the pain. I was "walking the Red Road."

With technology, the internet, and social media, we have more ways to connect, but are less connected than ever before. I may not be able to change the world, but my world has changed. I took ownership, was honest with my reflection, and challenged the warrior residing within to rise. It happened one step and day at a time.

Life is a gift from the creator. What we do and act in this life matters. My gift back is what I do with my life. My story is how I confirmed who I am, reaffirming who I will strive to continue to be. We need to learn from those with experiences greater than our own so we don't repeat the same or similar mistakes. Attract what you expect. Reflect on what you desire. Become what you respect. Mirror what you admire. Semper fi!