Updates...
Our Trip to Durango!
My wife and I finally took a long overdue vacation out west in September, 2022. After visiting Taliesin West, Sedona, the Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, and Antelope Canyon, we spent a couple of days in Durango. We rode the train from Durango to Silverton on a glorious fall morning, almost 17 years to the day after my life-changing day. Our trip couldn't have been more perfect - the sky was deep blue, the aspens were changing to yellows and golds, and the Animas river was running wild from heavy rains the day before. My wife cried. I cried. Life is beautiful.
Southwest Travels
Our September 2022 journey through the Southwest, with visits to numerous National Parks including the enchanting Zion, was a magical experience. This adventure was a testament to the new possibilities opened up by my sobriety years ago. Pictured here at one of our favorite spots, Zion National Park, with my angelic wife.
Durango Touchstone
Here I am wearing the baseball cap that holds a profound meaning in my life. Gifted by a Harley Davidson biker after an unforgettable train ride in Durango, this cap symbolizes the unexpected moments of connection and kindness that can profoundly alter one's path. Alyson and I are standing at Wupatki National Monument, a hidden gem recommended by a kindred spirit we met on our vacation, we’re reminded of the power of human kindness and the surprises life holds when we remain open. This cap, more than a souvenir, is a touchstone of the day that marked the beginning of my renewed life—a reminder to always to look beyond the surface and cherish the kindness of strangers.
Durango
Captured during our delightful train ride from Durango to Silverton, this photo marks the culmination of a perfect vacation. Seventeen years of sobriety made such moments possible, moments that would have remained unexperienced had my journey taken a different path. Instead of a story ending too soon, here we are, my wife and I, celebrating life and eagerly anticipating our retirement years that are just around the corner.
Brett & Patricia
The first people we saw when we arrived in Phoenix were friends from way back. Brett & I lived together after college and before we both got married and started families. He and his wife knew how much this trip meant to us - they had a gift for us to remember the trip by - a wonderful Cosanti bronze windbell made in Phoenix, close to where they live.
Thank you, Brett & Patricia. It hangs today on our back deck where it reminds me daily of the beautiful time we had visiting Durango, old friends, the spectacular National Parks of the desert Southwest...and of the important things in life...
Faith
Family and Friendship
Purpose - it is our 'why'
Time
Learning
Love
And, hope...don't ever lose hope
The Cosanti Reminder
A cherished gift from dear friends, this Cosanti Windbell from our trip to Durango resonates with more than just its sound. Each ring is a gentle reminder of my journey, echoing the mantra that has guided me: Do good, be kind, and think of others. It serves as a daily call to kindness, a beautiful testament to the transformative power of change.
Fall, 2023
A New Chapter: Transitioning Beyond Employment
As noted in my biography, I dedicated many years to a wonderful company, a subsidiary of a major health system where long careers and retirements were the norm. As I ventured into my sixties, with memories of our enriching trip to Durango still fresh, I anticipated continuing my work for several more years. Unfortunately, that expectation shifted when our company was acquired by a venture capital firm, introducing a new era with different priorities.
Observing the influx of younger employees and new executives, I braced for inevitable changes. When downsizing commenced, I was among the first to transition out. While this sudden change disrupted my financial planning and hastened my exit from a career where I felt valued and impactful, it did not dampen my spirit nor my resolve.
Though the title ‘Chief People Person’ suggests a focus on employee welfare, the reality often aligns more closely with corporate objectives. Despite the abrupt end to my tenure, I remain grateful for nearly two decades of meaningful work, enduring friendships, and the opportunity to make a significant impact.
This transition, while challenging, did not sway me towards old vices. Supported by my faith, the love of my family, and a strong sense of self, I am navigating these changes with resilience. Life’s journey is filled with ups and downs, and this is merely a brief detour on my continued path forward.
Next Chapter...
I would be deeply humbled if you feel moved to share my story. Your support in spreading this message of hope and transformation can make a profound difference.