Chasing Dreams:A Journey Back to School & Passion

Hello, beautiful souls!

I'm Ryan, and I'm reaching out to share my journey with you—a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of true passion. After spending 15 years in the world of sales, I found myself yearning for more fulfillment and purpose in my life. The shadows of self-doubt and the desire for validation have been constant companions since my childhood.

Born with one hand, I overcame numerous challenges, yet the lingering feelings of not being attractive or wanted persisted. The quest for acceptance and fitting in led me through a journey of seeking validation, from my early school days to college. While I finally felt popular and seen in college, the wounds from my past experiences had already taken their toll.

Growing up in a Christian environment, I carried a heavy secret since 5th grade—feeling shame for being attracted to men, a belief that I was a bad person. The combination of being gay and having one hand intensified my search for validation and love. A decade of substance abuse followed, as I grappled with feelings of inadequacy and fear of rejection.

Seven years ago, I embarked on a transformative path. Therapy became my refuge, and I confronted the root of my issues with the help of my therapist, Kenny. Through the years, I learned to love myself, breaking free from the chains of worry, rejection, and inadequacy. I've been sober for seven years and am now devoted to spreading love and acceptance.

Recently, a profound moment urged me to reassess my life. A voice echoed, "What are you doing, Ryan? Why aren't you pursuing your passion and finding true joy?" With clarity, I realized that my true calling lies in helping others love themselves, just as I have learned to love myself. I'm bidding farewell to my sales career, selling my belongings, and returning to my home state to pursue a master's in Therapy, specializing in addiction.

I am on a mission to make a difference, to save lives, and to share the love that has transformed mine. This is where I need your support. The journey ahead involves a hefty tuition, and I'm navigating it with faith and trust that everything will come together. Your contribution, whether financial or simply sharing your love, will make a significant impact on my quest to spread love and make a difference in the lives of others.

No pressure, no expectation—your friendship and love alone mean the world to me. I'll miss LA dearly during these next two years, but I'm listening to my soul's calling. Thank you for being a part of my journey, for making me feel loved, and for being my friend. With gratitude and love,

Ryan