We all have a story to tell and something each of us can learn from them. The purpose of this book is to share some "observations and life lessons" based on over three decades of service and counting. I share stories and experiences having grown up in poverty, serving in the Air Force as a Lt. Colonel, Non-profit CEO, Entrepreneur, President of two disability rights organizations and most importantly, a husband and father. In every case I have always tried to put others ahead of myself and have made my share of mistakes along the way. I did not write this book to boast about my accomplishments or to set the record straight, but rather to share some things I have learned which I hope at least one reader finds useful

The stories in this book are all based on actual events across several different careers and experiences. The writing of this book has been a "work in progress" for a few years and I have learned a lot about vulnerability in sharing these stories. In every case I have tried to present the story as it actually occurred and to share the lesson I learned from it. This book is my attempt to highlight the important things we all experience and how we can learn from them and share with others. We are all better together.

We learn and grow as a community, nation, and world when we talk, listen, and agree or disagree in a civil manner all aimed at the "Pursuit of a more perfect Union." Each story ends with the relevant lesson learned from my perspective and I hope readers will take away their own lessons from the stories. In every case I have tried to convey the stories as a way for all of us to listen and learn from each other. I believe we are all lifelong learners and should try to learn something new every day. If one reader finds inspiration, motivation, laughter, or insight from one of these stories then for that, I will be eternally grateful!