My story…where it began.

Overall, I consider myself fortunate and have led a relatively good life, but it wasn't always this way.

When I was around 9 years old, I experienced a sexual assault. It took me 16 years to fully comprehend the extent of its impact, and I kept this burden hidden from everyone.

Throughout my school years, I endured relentless bullying, seemingly unable to fit in for reasons unknown.

During elementary school, I grappled with health issues, and in high school, I underwent hip surgery due to a sports injury. In high school, my friends struggled to relate to my health challenges, leaving me feeling isolated and lonely.

These hardships in my life accumulated, and I reached a point where I contemplated giving up, questioning the purpose of living with such pain. I even began to doubt my faith, asking God, "Where are you? Do you even love me?" I carried this pain and shame for an extended period, akin to a dormant volcano waiting to erupt, and eventually, it did.

My anger began to surface during college. I decided that anyone who had caused me pain needed to repay me—with interest. I was on the brink of losing many people in my life.

I desperately needed help, and my anger served as my loudest cry for assistance, pleading with God to save me.

Finally, that help arrived. My wife encouraged me to seek counseling, and I knew she was right; my bad days were outweighing the good.

I must emphasize that the journey to healing demanded significant effort.

Over time, I found the strength to reach out to important individuals in my life, apologize for my anger, and seek forgiveness. I am proud to say that these relationships are now stronger than ever.

I share my victory story to convey that even when I doubted myself, God had something remarkable in store for me. I want you to understand that you, too, are destined for greatness, nothing less.

During my anger-fueled period when hurt consumed me, I failed to see the goodness around me. When I felt utterly alone in high school, I prayed for a best friend to help me through those times. Well, I still have that best friend, and she happens to be my wife. During my college anger phase, I ventured into MMA, and my coach became a close friend. Now, through GRIT, I collaborate with him as he pursues his dream.

My message is simple: Do not permit hurt and pain to dominate your life, as it will only isolate you.

I eventually realized that my anger was directed at everyone due to the incident from my childhood, but the truth was that it was caused by one person, not multiple. The only person I needed to forgive was the one who had hurt me.

My story is far from over. I still face challenges and must daily strive to fulfill my purpose, but my past experiences have taught me the power of grit.

My passion is to be a source of support for those grappling with their mental health, to remind them of the courage they display daily, and to reinforce the value they bring to this world.

-Ricky