It is important for people to know that no matter what lies in their past, they can overcome the dark side and press on the a brighter world.

Build on past successes, be grateful for what you do have, and know that this, too, shall pass. It's only for the now. Whatever we're facing, it's not forever.

I am not the most eloquent guy in the world.

Ask yourself: was there anything I could have done to prevent the situation? If the answer is yes, do something now and become a better person for it.

When you please others in hopes of being accepted, you lose you self-worth in the process.

Gripping my arm, Mother held it in the orange-blue flame. My skin seemed to explode from the heat.

I'm so alive. As I stand facing the beauty of the never-ending Pacific Ocean, a late afternoon breeze blows down from the hills behind. As always, it is a beautiful day. The sun is making its final descent. The magic is about to begin. The skies are ready to burn with brilliance, as it turns from a soft blue to a bright orange. Looking towards the West, I stare in awe at the hypnotic power of the waves. A giant curl begins to take form, then breaks with a thundering clap as it crashes on the shore.