Epilogue — Reflections on responsibility and purpose

It is commonly understood that life is about change. Changes will happen, but how we embrace them is what matters.

From early life as a kid, through the bravado of the teenage years and into adulthood, the U.S. Navy was a "dose of reality" that brought things into perspective. It was not all about the individual, but about something larger.

That realization carried forward throughout Michael's career and into his first real job with the Georgia Power Company, where he worked as a Construction Quality Auditor and later as a Welding Inspector and Trainer.

However, after 12 years, Michael realized that the power company would no longer be constructing nuclear power plants. Since he was married with a family, he changed his future career path.

By leveraging his existing skill set, Michael was able to become an Information Technology Consultant. This allowed him to continue moving toward his eventual goal of becoming a Management Consultant.

Through his experience and willingness to take on jobs that expanded his skill set, Michael earned a reputation as an individual who could be depended upon to provide positive insight toward acceptable problem resolution.

He recognized that every negative and positive event helped shape him into who he is today.

Michael also uses his Toastmasters skills to speak about his journey through life. He remains willing to listen to others and, when asked, provide support and guidance based on his own experiences.