5.11.2015

Empir3 Real Talk

My life has been a little crazy as of late and I wanted to share my thoughts.


   As some of you may be aware I had 3 strokes back in October and I'm currently trying to manage epilepsy that I got as a result. This has been the hardest 6 months of my life. But I have learned a lot from it and if I can help others in a difficult time as well then it's all worth it.

  Back in October I suffered the strokes resulting in partial blindness, cognitive issues, right sided weakness and a lack of propeoception. Thankfully through lots of rehab and hard work I have fixed most of these issues.I had to relearn how to talk, think, use my right arm, walk and lots of things we never consider and take for granted. Why am I sharing all this? Because this terrible experience gave me a interesting perspective I would like to share.

  Many people seem to get fed up or give up too easily and what I say to that is don't. Life may be hard at times but it is the only one you get, try and make the best if it. Do not cut yourself off and wallow in how bad you think everything is, it won't help anything or make you feel better. Sure there are times where you may feel down but use that to strengthen yourself. Set goals and try to improve like I am trying to write again you may be trying for a new job or learning an instrument. Life won't do everything for you you have to work at it. In doing so you will feel a great sense of accomplishment , there is nothing quite like it. When I was able to walk after being in a wheelchair for a month I felt so proud. But I didn't just magically stand up and walk I worked at it every day. I guess what I'm saying is its easy to get wrapped up in the bad stuff and let it drag you down. But how will letting that happen help you?

  I know it sounds corny but you need to stay positive and count the blessings you do have. Remember the little things that you may easily overlook and may mean the world to someone who does not have it. Don't let your disability or faults define you let your strengths do that. Let those disabilities and faults fuel your next great achievement. Remember no victory is too small and take things a day at a time.

14 comments:

  1. I'm proud to have you as a friend. My mom always asks about you and I tell her that you're going through a lot but that you're still the same guy I became friends with many years ago. You're always there for me and you've always been a generous person. And sharing your experiences here, and your words of encouragement to everyone, is just another example of how you think of others. Thank you.

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  2. Dear John, you are an amazing person and I am so proud of you. Your hard work and determination to recover is inspiring. I love you dearly and miss you oodles.
    Love Auntie Barbara

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  3. Hi John,
    When all these episodes were happening to you back in October, Barbara and I felt so helpless and asked why this is happening to you. We will never know that answer. We prayed for you ever day and still do asking God to please bring you back to 100%. You are such a good person and did not deserve this to happen to you.
    What you have written is so inspiring,but I am not surprised at your inner strength and determination.
    I am going through shingles--not tot be compared to what you have been going through, but your words touched me very deeply, and I will be stronger and get through this with a much better frame of mind.

    Thank you for being my nephew in law.
    Barbara and I are always just a phone call away if you need anything.
    Love
    Uncle in law Ray

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  4. Your grandmother Rosemary, keeps me posted on your situation. Her heart breaks for you, and so does mine. I'm so glad you wrote this...Your a true inspiration...and God will bless you...Never give up...Keep the faith... Sincerely, Linda

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  5. God Bless you through this buddy. You've taken more than most and have shown your strength of spirit. I admire you brother.
    Please take care of yourself and know that you helped make a lot of people happy with your podcast. -been listening since your 3rd podcast.

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  6. John, Sometimes life is really unfair. But hardships can either consume us or define us. It's our choice. Your courage and determination has helped us all keep life in perspective. Thank you! I love you and will always be there for you. All my love, Aunt Pat

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  7. PO66 is a fun podcast/community, but the times when you have Real talk is what sets you above the rest. I think I speak for the rest of the listeners when I say that we feel for you and just wish you the best and that we're all rooting for you.

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  8. I was concerned that the reason the podcast didn't return was that your health was getting worse. It sounds to me that despite the initial impact, you didn't lay down, but instead built the Empir3 Mark II and began smashing any obstacles in your way. I do feel down a lot. Pressures, depressions, all common, but all easy to succumb to and find myself in a hole unable to get myself out of, but you've been a source of motivation for me to see the things I can change and work to change them, then see the things I think can't be changed and start pushing my way through those as well.

    Thanks for this. Stay strong. Stay you.

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  9. Empir3,
    I don't know you personally, but have gotten to know you through the podcast and the occasional twitter conversation. With that I'll add you seem like a great guy and great friend to many. Im glad things are getting better and your adjusting with the current situation. Stay positive and your words are very encouraging and sometimes its events like these that make us take a step back and look at life from a different perspective. Stay strong and much love brother.

    ArmoredFoe / Willis
    Your friend ArmoredFoe

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