Blenster @Blenster@qoto.org

Something happened recently and I've been debating whether or not to share it here but it's giving me pause to reflect on my life.
Around 13-ish years ago I was almost homeless. I owed my landlord thousands of dollars and I don't even want to talk about the child support.

2013-2015 sucked.

I'd had 2 years of back to back kidney stones. My 401k was almost gone. I'd gone through a bunch of startups at various levels - learning but not making money.

It's hard to keep a regular job when you fall on the floor screaming and disappear for a couple of weeks every couple of months.

I look at my life now and I'm a homeowner, I have some savings, I'm rebuilding my retirement, I lead an amazing team doing the best work of my career, I just got an expensive (used) vehicle that is VERY comfortable, and overall life is really good right now.
Such a contrast from those times.

All that to say I was made a Kentucky Colonel this month and I just got the certificate signed by the Governor and it hit me that I made a plan and worked hard and got lucky and made it here and I just want to sit with that and enjoy the accomplishment.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kentucky_Colonel

How did I earn this? Well y'all know I'm a chronic volunteer and I've been active in both non-profits and in the entrepreneurial world (as I said, lots of startups) and I've taught classes and spoken all over the state and the country.

I have complicated feelings on this honor.

On one hand: you could frequently get awarded through political favors or other trivial means. On the other there are a long list of people who worked hard and helped the community that earned this award as well.

On the whole I am humbled and proud to be an ambassador for my adopted state.

I apologize if I rambled a bit here; I'm still processing this and reflecting on the various achievements and where I am in life now, where I want to go next, and how I feel about all this.
Also: I definitely updated my work email signature. 😜

I love you.

I don't have the right words so all I can say is that I love you and that I'm glad you are here.

Thank you.

#MakeKindnessNormal

This can be a rough time of year for folks; please have as much patience as you can with yourself and others as we all struggle through this together. Take good care of everyone.

Remember we are not truly alone as long as we have each other and our communities.

I love you.

#MakeKindnessNormal

It's 10:53 AM Easter and I am so glad you are alive.

Honestly I am.

My heart aches at the thought of those we have already lost.

Thank you for being here with me, even when it's tough.

You are worth the effort. Always.

#MakeKindnessNormal

It's 11:40 AM Eastern and I am glad you are alive.

Thanks for being here with me. Your light in my sky brings me more comfort than you may realize.

#MakeKindnessNormal

It's 10:57 PM Eastern and I'm glad you are alive.

The time may have fallen back here but I've not fallen back on my love for you.

Remember you are wroth the effort my friend. You are worthy.

#MakeKindnessNormal

Happy Diwali 🪔

It is 11:02 AM Eastern and I'm glad you are alive.

Thanks for being here with me.

I love you.

#MakeKindnessNormal

It's 9:10 AM Eastern and I'm glad you are alive.

Thanks for being here with me.

I love you.

#MakeKindnessNormal

@JSCybersec @Shrigglepuss I can arrange for an online lesson/Q&A/whatever when I get back to civilization