October 16, 2022
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. If you’re waiting for a bolt of lightning to strike or a vision from above; you may be sitting inactive for a long time. My suggestion; pull yourself up, get off the couch, move your body, go outside, enjoy some sunshine, experience nature, breathe and dream new dreams. My path to enlightenment wasn’t an instantaneous vision of grandeur. Instead, it’s been a long arduous journey; with ups, downs and difficulties. During my years on this earth I have learned, grown and matured as a human. The journey of life isn’t always easy. It has struggles, hardships and sadness; but it also brings amazing joy and incredible happiness. It’s interesting, as I get older, I’ve become more aware of how little I knew about myself and life; yesterday, last year or a decade ago. I’m grateful to greet each new morning with a positive attitude, a vibrant outlook and personal happiness. I look forward to new opportunities and experiences that enhance my life. The last eight years, since I entered retired life, have proven to be my greatest years of self-discovery and transformation. I didn’t know my life (and heart) could be so open, free and unencumbered. My past and trauma locked me up for far too long. I’m happy and thankful to be here today, mentally and spiritually vibrant and empowered. The energetic boost allowed my physical body to benefit as well. Some events that led me to my “epiphany” or “phoenix” moment weren’t always happy or pleasant. The revelation I required, to push me out of the ashes, came at a high cost. The loss of love is heart breaking; when your life-long dream of finding an amazing partner to share life is lost. The valuable lessons I’ve learned have been more significant than I could have imagined. I learned to love myself, as I continue to seek new adventures and experiences. Changing my attitude, perceptions and beliefs increased my clarity and vision of life and love. Don’t wait! Get up, go out and love your life! It’s never too late to dream new dreams (and then live them).
Halloween is a couple weeks away and the holiday season will soon be descending upon us. The police officer (protector / dad side) in me always wants to keep everyone safe. I’m well aware of the evil that exists in our world. As much as some individuals may want to hide from that fact, it doesn’t change anything. If you’re living in your own rosy world, it’s time to wake up to the reality of life. Before I became a police officer, I was unaware of the magnitude of how cruel humans can be to one another. In college, I majored in Political Science, with a minor in History. I am well educated in the evil exploits of individuals, dictators, groups and tyrannical rulers throughout world history. Their type of evil is easily recognized. When I began my career in law enforcement, I was immediately immersed into the dark world of human behavior. The abuse and torture suffered daily, in homes, and across our nation is immeasurable. I was aware incidents occurred, from news reports, but never fully comprehended the sheer magnitude of this hideous behavior. You can walk through a neighborhood, not knowing what occurs behind closed doors. Children, spouses and animals are being violently assaulted daily. Knowing that perverted and sadistic criminals roam our lands, truly frightens me. If we don’t unit to recognize and combat evil together, we can never succeed against it. If you believe something to be suspicious, trust your instincts and investigate further. Call law enforcement if necessary. Don’t brush it off, thinking, “I don’t want to get involved.” Your actions may prevent a crime, stop the abuse or save a life. Deadly assaults on law enforcement officers continue by murderous thugs. When will we stand up America and end this insanity. We must demand our weak and politically motivated leaders to put a stop to criminal attacks, for the sake of all people.
During my years in law enforcement, the holidays always compounded any incident, but especially those with sorrow or tragedy. I have witnessed far too much death and sadness, both personally and professionally. With Halloween and the holiday season looming, I’m compelled to share several safety ideas or tips for you, your family and friends. Whatever you’re doing or your adventures take you, please use common sense to stay safe. Keep your home locked, safe and secure. Don’t leave items of value in your car, whether it’s in your driveway or parked anywhere else. It’s sad to live in a distrustful world, but thieves are of opportunity are out there lurking. If you’re driving, especially in residential areas, slow down. If you need to look at your cell phone, pull to the side of the road and stop. It only takes a moment of inattention for an accident to occur. Anytime children are outside, especially after sunset (especially for “trick or treating”), remain aware and cautious. For the parents and children out collecting candy and treats, remain vigilant that evil does exist in our world. Some individuals will be dispensing items that can cause injury or death. It’s best not to accept items unwrapped or suspicious looking. Throw them away or call police if your suspect they may be harmful. We know drugs like fentanyl (a synthetic opioid) has been made to look like candy. Deaths from opioid overdoses in 2020 was over 70,000 and increased to over 80,000 in 2021. Drug overdose deaths, this year alone, are already over 109,000. Please protect your children, family, friends and yourself from potential catastrophic events. Always pay close attention to your surroundings; don’t walk around with your face buried in your cell phone; as I see many individuals doing. If you’re alert and attentive, it’s less likely you won’t become a victim. This isn’t meant to frighten you, but hopefully it will increase your awareness, to help yourself and others stay safe.
The tragic and trauma filled incidents during my career, and life, remain as embedded visions in my mind. They are real, don’t fade away and are everlasting. Evil exists my friends. We rarely know when or where it will strike next. If we are vigilant and stand together, we can defeat it. I don’t want anyone else to experience the type of horror or sadness I’ve witnessed. Be mindful, alert and unrelenting in your daily effort to stay safe. Enjoy and cherish each and every moment the holidays bring for you and your family. These are once in a life time events. Create new and fabulous memories from the amazing experiences of life. I am eagerly awaiting the opportunity to share the joy of this time of year with those I love and with all of you. It took me many years to get this point in life; where I’ve discovered the real me. My heart and soul are open and free. I knew I was in there, it just took more work than I realized to release the past and trauma storied inside me. The effort, support and guidance; with the assistance of loving hands; helped push me to the therapy I needed. Now, I am finally me. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The puzzle of life is always changing. Change can lead to amazing opportunities. Together, let’s be healthy and strong; mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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