It's actually a pretty long story that starts back in grade school. Bottom line, for the first eighteen years of my life I was pretty much behind the ol' 8 ball. 

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Less than ideal home life- check. Barely a mediocre student- check. Life below the poverty line- check.

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However.....

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I was really good at sports and that attitude of winning and fair play carried over into my life. I also had a good mother who kept me on the straight and narrow. Even if it was on the threat of death by wooden spoon. IYKYK

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Things improved in college when I discovered education didn't come in a one-size-fits-all box. I had options. After college I started my career and accomplished some amazing things that would have shocked my grade school teachers. Oddly, or fittingly, I retired as a consultant with a top education technology firm. Go figure.

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But then, it was health issue after health issue, with a scare or two thrown in for good measure. Twelve surgeries in fourteen years! That's a lot of anesthesia. I am blessed to still be here. 

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Through it all I experienced the ups and downs and ups of marriage, and was a dad to four kids. I know what it means to lose a good job and feel the pain of financial struggles. I also know what it means to get up every day and keep fighting.

 

Add to all of that a relocation ten years ago to an area where I thought I would enjoy retirement. But no, not so much. I'm still trying to figure that one out. And retirement? It seems there is still work for me to do.

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So, here I am at 72 years of age, and doing my best to live out my Personal Vocation. I believe God is not done with me, and you just might be part of my story. I'd like that. Because He's probably not done with you either.

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Michael

My CliftonStrengths- MAXIMIZER • STRATEGIC • LEARNER • ARRANGER • EMPATHY