Life has a way of taking unexpected turns, and my own journey has been no exception. Growing up in a close-knit town in Virginia, I was fortunate to have a supportive family and a promising future. After completing my B.S. in Communications, I decided to explore the world of sales. My adventurous spirit soon led me to join the military, where I served as an Infantry squad leader, shaping my leadership skills and instilling in me a strong sense of discipline and commitment. Using my sales background, and competing a second B.S. Degree in Clinical Psychology, I became a recruiter, during which time I became a Master Recruiter and was honored with the prestigious award of Recruiter of the Year. I took on the role of Recruiting Manager, and subsequently, the Operations Manager of the Exercises & Experimentation Division of the Joint Force Headquarters of Virginia. These roles allowed me to apply my skills in a dynamic and challenging environment.
My thirst for knowledge led me to pursue an MBA in Business & Finance, after which I went to work for the Federal Government, and four years after graduating from Southwestern College, I was humbled to be inducted into the Business Hall of Fame.
Life’s tragedies often strike when we least expect them. I met Dana, the love of my life who I called my sweet pea, during college, and we shared over two decades of marriage. However, fate had other plans, and I tragically lost both my beloved wife and my mother within a short span of time. These heartbreaking losses shook me to my core and prompted me to reevaluate my priorities. In the wake of these tragedies, I chose to take a strategic pause and reflect on the meaning of my life. I realized that these devastating events had, in a way, prepared me for the next great adventure awaiting me. With a brave resolve, I made the life-altering decision to leave my job, sell my possessions, and embrace a nomadic lifestyle.
Amidst the chaos and grief, I found solace in my passions for cooking and playing the piano. These creative outlets became a form of therapy, helping me navigate the emotional turmoil I experienced. Additionally, my love for travel found its wings.
My decision to start this blog is a testament to my adventurous spirit and my desire to share my story with others. Through this platform, I hope to inspire those who have experienced their own tragedies, encouraging them to find strength, purpose, and renewal in the face of adversity. I firmly believe that our greatest challenges can serve as catalysts for our greatest achievements.
Life’s journey is an unpredictable one, and sometimes, tragedy knocks on our door. However, it is in our response to these challenges that we define ourselves. We all possess the resilience of the human spirit, and the transformative power of tragedy can arise when awakened. Through reinvention, self-discovery, and a thirst for adventure, I have found a renewed sense of purpose and joy. I embarked on this new chapter of my life, to go on an extraordinary journey of resilience, hope, and growth; embracing tragedies that shaped be and finding the courage to start anew, and to visit at least 100 countries in my lifetime.