In 2017, I finally decided to heed the voice that had been whispering in my ear for years: “Tell your story.” Despite my successful academic career, it felt contradictory to reveal the skeletons in my closet. Nevertheless, I embarked on the cathartic experience of writing about my past and journaling distant memories.

I recalled a summer day in 1972, when, as a 12-year-old boy, I took my first drink of alcohol. The memory is vivid, down to the gaudy orange color of my parents’ basement. Growing up surrounded by my parents’ frequent drinking, I took my first sip of brandy. The burning sensation in my throat gave way to an unusual feeling of calm and courage, taming the raging anxiety of my youth.

Fast forward to a winter day in 2002. I woke up early, feeling foggy and disoriented after another blackout from heavy drinking the night before. That morning was different. As I looked at myself in the mirror, I had a life-changing moment. A voice within my soul whispered, “Stop drinking or die.”

That was the day I found the courage to enter the hospital and undergo nearly thirty days of treatment. I also found the resilience to stay sober. Sixteen years later, I realized it was time to share the memories and the shame I had suppressed for so long with the world.

Finding a speaking platform proved more challenging than I had anticipated. Despite over two decades of teaching, the thought of standing before strangers and recounting the darkest moments of my life seemed insurmountable. Yet, I knew I had to find my voice and the courage to speak about my life, including both my failures and my successes.

I believed that telling my story could impact those walking down the same dark path I had known. I hired a professional speaker, Paul Artale, who became my mentor and helped me conceptualize my message. This journey was more difficult than expected. I spoke pro bono to any group willing to listen, including college students and community organizations. At first, I stammered and nervously tried to talk, which underscored how difficult it was to find my voice.

Over time, I realized it wasn't about shame or guilt but rather about celebrating victory and resilience. My journey is unique yet resonates with many. Achieving and maintaining sobriety is incredibly challenging, but this immense challenge paid dividends, making me almost unstoppable in my professional life. I transformed my past struggles into fuel for my work.

Now, I believe reconciling the dark roads of our past with the joy and successes of our future is essential. I understand how precious life is and how close I came to losing everything. I look forward to telling my story to anyone who will listen, enriching my future by opening up about my past.