From The Beginning

I was born in the mid-’60s in a bustling Michigan city, but my urban journey was fleeting. Just months after my birth, my parents returned to their familial roots in a small northern Michigan village.

Initially, we lived with my grandparents while my father pursued education, and by the time I was four, we relocated again. This move took us to a mid-sized town nestled between city life and rural charm.

My childhood revolved around biking, tree climbing, and immersing myself in the wilderness, pretending to be an adventurer in uncharted lands.

As I began school, I almost reached graduation in this town when my dad opted to transfer back to the village of my early years.

During my time in school, I was often dubbed the class clown, but upon starting anew in my senior year, I was branded the class flirt instead.

As a naturally shy and introverted person, I found it challenging to navigate the sudden attention—should I shrink away or embrace it? Ultimately, the new label reflected my triumph in social dynamics.

Prior to this, my life was a series of mischiefs and discoveries, questioning the purpose of school and the necessity of stepping into a yellow bus that transported me to an institution that felt like a waste of time.

As graduation approached, an overwhelming realization struck me: WHAT WILL I DO AFTER SCHOOL? My life had been a well-structured routine—rise, dress, attend school, return home, explore, and repeat. A brief summer break led back to the same cycle in the fall.

The Next Phase

In the final month of school, a friend suggested I join the military through the buddy system—enlisting with a companion to share the experience. However, my friend backed out at the last moment, leaving me to embark on this journey alone.

He didn’t last long as a friend…

No matter; I had never shied away from new adventures. My previous travels across the U.S. with my parents and a mission trip to Northern Europe had prepared me for this next chapter.

The first six months were spent at Bootcamp, followed by specialized training for my assigned role. I then served as a crew chief for three and a half years, flying to aircraft carriers across the Mediterranean on one of the largest helicopters in existence.

At the conclusion of my service, I faced another crossroads, pondering my future beyond the military. Despite the fleeting thought of extending my enlistment, I quickly dismissed it. I had a countdown calendar marking my departure that I couldn't ignore.

I know, it seems irrational now, but at the time, my attitude was my only armor.

Reality Check

Patterns were emerging in my life—routine followed routine.

I transitioned from a structured upbringing to military life, which was all about routine. Now, liberated yet overwhelmed, I struggled to face the reality of adult responsibilities while enjoying my newfound freedom.

I reconnected with old friends, sought out parties, and fell for get-rich-quick schemes, all while waiting for the next spontaneous opportunity.

Time sped by, and before I knew it, I was 20 years older, with three children, a myriad of jobs, several relocations, three marriages, and a wealth of heartache that could fuel countless films.

In my third and final marriage, after 11 years of cohabitation with someone equally lost, I left with my dignity and moved into a basement apartment, desperately searching for hope and a fresh start.

It was surreal to realize that just shy of turning 50, I had little to show for my years except for a long list of regrets and shattered dreams.

I explored religion, self-help, and a deep yearning to rewind time, but all that remained was me, sitting at rock bottom—a popular catalyst for change.

The Grand Finale

Don’t feel too sorry for me; I’ve had my share of unforgettable moments and have remained engaged in hobbies and experiences that fill me with pride.

• Created beautiful children who are thriving.
• Traveled extensively during my youth on mission trips.
• Continued traveling through my military career.
• Rode a camel to the Pyramids in Egypt.
• Advanced to management positions in various companies.
• Built a successful business in graphic design and printing.
• Drove a semi-truck across the country.
• Established my own photography venture.
• Played drums in a soft rock band.
• Endured injuries, accidents, and numerous mishaps that make for wild stories.

I’ve been through it all and lived to share my tales.

A few other personal stories worth mentioning include: 1. The Worst 10 Minutes Of My Life 2. Living Without The Will To Be Alive 3. Turning Cold

Though my past could have consumed me, living alone in my basement became a period of deep reflection on my identity and the meaning of life.

A transformative trip to New Zealand acted as a catalyst, propelling me into a profound evolution in character that can only be likened to a six-month metamorphosis.

This experience deserves its own tale, akin to Frodo’s journey in the Lord of the Rings—minus the fantastical elements, but with enough essence to resonate.

Throughout it all, I maintained my passion for outdoor activities like camping, kayaking, and hiking, while also enjoying quality time around a campfire with friends and a good drink—striving to embrace life to its fullest.

What’s Next

With the wisdom I’ve gained through my life’s journey, I aim to create and teach a curriculum designed to guide others through the complexities of life, helping them avoid the senseless heartache I faced due to my lack of structure.

I also have numerous books in mind that encourage deeper reflection beyond the mundane routines that often hold us back.

I recently completed my first book, Bite Size Life Lessons: Modern-Day Proverbs, offering practical advice and insights from my experiences. It’s available on Amazon and can be found through a universal link at Books2Read.

If you’d like to connect on other platforms, feel free to reach out:

1. Facebook
2. Instagram
3. LinkedIn
4. Twitter
5. Website

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Thank you once again, and much love.

Rick