Some things in life we’re simply powerless over. So it is with me. This past week has forced me to be honest with myself in ways I never dreamed I could. Or would need to be. I’ve learned that I’m not alone, that there are others like myself.

I feel like I’ve lived a double life. On the outside I seem competent. Skillful. People generally like me and think my life is fascinating. I’ve traveled around Asia and now North America writing about gemstones and mining, interviewing people and publishing my articles.

On the inside I’ve been dying. I’ve been running from myself and my problems for years, many more years than I was willing to admit.

But something has happened. Life has brought me to my knees and as a result new people have come into my life in just the past few days who I see now are guides and teachers. And I’m learning to embrace life in a way I wasn’t able to just a week ago.

For the first time in many years, maybe the first time forever, I have hope that my life will daily become clearer and more honest.