It's safe to say that where we end up can look far different from our starting point.
I've written ad nauseam on the struggles I've faced over the last two decades in my mental health recovery.
Sharing them through this avenue is one thing; despite the fact I know my words will go out to a fairly wide audience, I still enjoy a certain amount of anonymity when writing them behind a keyboard and monitor.
While I have shared my story in a live setting before, it was either piecemeal in support groups back in the day or in small groups of no more than a dozen people.
On Feb. 6, the day this column comes out in print, that will change.
I will be serving as the keynote speaker for the 2025 edition of the Music for Mental Mental Health fundraiser being held at the Stettler Performing Arts Centre.
Considering there are usually around 100-plus people at the event, it will be by far the largest group I have spoken in front of.
Suffice it to say, I'm nervous but I'm also excited.
Jocko Willink, a former U.S. Navy SEAL turned motivational speaker says, "There is no growth in the comfort zone."
Getting in front of a large group of people and sharing my story, warts and all, is well outside of my comfort zone, but I'm also seeing it as another path forward in my steps toward healing.
A decade ago, I wouldn't have been anywhere near the mental shape to even consider this.
Five years ago, I was sharing my story, but a step like this was still well outside of my wheelhouse.
Today, I feel that my mental health is the best it has ever been.
I'm calmer. I'm more confident.
I also know that I've been through the wringer and survived.
There were days I didn't think I would see out the other side.
I honestly didn't think I would see 40, and now I'm closer to 50.
While Music for Mental Health is aimed at young people, it is open to everyone, and if my story helps even one person, it will be worth the discomfort.
Over the last few years, my life has taken me on some twists and turns I never saw coming.
I never thought I would end up where I am today, and I now look forward to what the future holds instead of with dread.
Music for Mental Health proceeds this year will support Spirit Respite Ranch; I hope you consider attending.
The doors for the program open at 6:30 p.m., and the program begins at 7 p.m.
I hope to see you there.
-Kevin Sabo is the editor of the Stettler Independent and a journalist for Black Press Media.