Howdy Folks!

First, thanks so much for clicking this link. OK, so ZERO obligation since you've clicked the link to donate. No pressure whatsoever!!!

Long story short, these last 5-years have been a journey. And that's the easiest way to say it.

Getting back to Kansas City right before Christmas 2020 through today, I've had my ups and downs. Navigating new jobs, new friendships, new perspectives, and of course all the challenges hasn't been easy over the last 5-years. But the constant throughout all this time has been how I hold myself accountable...to myself.

By this I mean, I know that when I was in my active alcoholism, I was not showing up for myself in any way, shape or form. As some of you have heard me say before.. "alcohol was the solution to a much bigger problem until it became part of the problem". My problem that I was using alcohol to cope with was "self worth". I had very little if any.

Constantly comparing myself to others, seeking validation externally, wanting more for myself when I didn't do anything to deserve it. It became such a "woe is me" roller coaster ride that I would "grab the bottles" to numb, avoid, and deal with all the discontent (a little AA verbiage).

And as the saying goes "once you hit rock bottom, the only way out is up", well I tested that theory. Continued a self-destructive lifestyle. Lost friends, lost relationships, lost jobs, lost finances, and was on the brink of losing family. Until I asked for help.

But it was through the help of my friends, colleagues, and of course my family; that I started the journey. Those groups of people have continued to support me along the way. Reminding me, that the the reason those people wanted to help / continue to support me is because they love me and care about Justin.

Ultimately, it was that realization that allowed me to believe that for myself. That Justin should and GET's to care about Justin. That I GET to show up for myself and GET to hold myself accountable to myself. All this translating to, I now understand what it means to have self worth. And folks (channel your inner Nacho Libre) "My life is good!".

So that's why I continue the journey every day, if not every hour. But it also started with that First Call - that call to First Call. Which is who I want to help.

If you would like to contribute, I'm asking for $5. All donations are going to First Call. This is an organization that works to bring awareness, education, and help to those affected by the addiction crisis in GKC.

Everyone deserves a second chance - First Call helped me get mine.