Cheers to Transparency

June 17, 1999 marks the day I would’ve been married 23 years. Instead of being embarrassed, I choose to celebrate. When I got married I thought I was doing it right, but I did it all wrong. In retrospect, I’ve come a long way, and I’m ready to right my wrongs. Looking back on June 17, 1999… • We eloped in Vegas instead of waiting for the wedding • We never received premarital counseling • I thought in order to be the best husband all I had to do was work hard, love hard, and follow God • I barely knew who I was and tried to be the best man I could be • I internalized a lot and my communication was poor • I did it for love and didn’t understand the lifetime partnership • I wanted to change her but didn’t change much • I labeled myself as “damaged goods” after my divorce • I divorced God after my prayers didn’t fix the problems in my marriage • I felt like a failure because I couldn’t save my family • I didn’t love them hoes but I liked the way they made me feel • I hurt a lot of hearts searching for the unadulterated love I once had • I didn’t talk to my kids about how I push through the pain. They were hurting too I’m going to celebrate this day because… • I’ve forgiven myself • I trust God regardless • I invest to appreciate who I am • I overstand how I feel • Less is in lessons and blessings • I’m a grown ass mature man • I’ll elevate my future (life, business, and accountability) partner WIFEY • My status isn’t stapled • I have peace, joy, and wisdom • My past was a process and not a problem • I’ll never get divorced again • Love’s in need of love today and I got mad love to give