No One is Beyond Hope

Drug addict. Alcoholic. Expelled from school twice (high school and college in the 80s). Arrested multiple times. Countless bad relationships. Couldn’t keep a job. Total train wreck. Only question was which I would reach first… a jail cell or the grave? That was then. That was me in my early twenties.

Completed my third master’s degree in 2020. MBA. MPA. Published author. Business professional. Global volunteer. Congressional advocate with ONE. UN Volunteer currently doing remote work for GLOWA in Cameroon to help eradicate child sexual exploitation in that war-torn country. Happily married for 34 years with 3 kids, 1 son-in-law, and 1 grandson. This is now. This is me in my late fifties.

Just wanted to remind everyone today that ABSOLUTELY no one is beyond hope. As I reflect on my life’s journey, I am extremely grateful for two things: the grace of God and the love of close friends. Looking back over my life, I am reminded that I would not be here today if it were not for so many people who refused to give up on me. Never underestimate the power of encouragement and belief. Your words, your kindness, your support could make all the difference in someone’s life. It made all the difference in mine.

Bottom line… Do you want to “be the change”? Far too often, we look to the “grand stage” for opportunities to serve. But in reality, our greatest impact happens in our immediate sphere of influence. Start where you are. Start with the people around you. Start today.