Dear Chris:

Thank you for sharing your story. I’m truly sorry to hear about the challenges you’ve faced over the past decade. It’s incredibly difficult to navigate life with such a heavy burden, and I admire your resilience and determination to move forward.

It’s indeed wonderful news that your case is being overturned. While the stigma may still linger, this is a significant step towards reclaiming your life and finding new opportunities. Your positive outlook and focus on each new day are inspiring.

maybe you can find help in www. spl. org/ programs-and-services/ civics-and-social-services/ resources-for-the-formerly-incarcerated.

Wishing you all the best on your journey. If you ever need someone to talk to or share your thoughts with, I’m here for you.

anita

Hi Chris

I’m sorry to hear about your struggles with the stigma, losing your career, family, friends, and the difficulties with finances since. That is a lot to deal with. Even one of those things is considered a traumatic life experience, let alone all of that at once.

It’s wonderful that you’ve found peace in the ability to let go despite the challenges.

Does the case being overturned mean that your record will be expunged and you get your license back?

I’m happy for you that things are turning around. I wish you the best of luck in rebuilding your life! Has it sunk in yet that this is happening?

I wonder, do you have any advice when it comes to letting go of things?

Dear Chris:

Thank you for sharing more about your journey. I want to acknowledge that you have endured significant injustice and unnecessary difficulties imposed on you. It is deeply unfair that, despite your willingness to accept the consequences of a past mistake, and despite your commendable service to our country, you have faced continuous hurdles that have made rebuilding your life incredibly challenging.

Injustice is a common experience that many people face in various forms. It often brings about feelings of frustration, helplessness, and despair. It’s commendable that you have managed to navigate these challenges with resilience and determination. It’s inspiring to read that you don’t hold any animosity and that you’re focusing on maintaining your will and determination

While it’s unfortunate that you need to handle the notifications and reapplication process yourself, having your conviction vacated is still a significant step forward. It’s completely understandable though that the idea of retaking the boards and explaining your situation repeatedly can be very stressful. The stringent licensing requirements in California add another layer of difficulty to this process.

Given your decision to seek employment overseas, I hope you find a place where your credentials are valued and you feel welcomed and appreciated. It’s important to find an environment where you can thrive.

Also good to read that following the Tenants has brought you peace and allowed you to find acceptance in your journey. Embracing the idea of letting go and recognizing what you can and cannot control is indeed a profound and spiritually fulfilling path.

If you ever need someone to talk to or share your thoughts with, I’m here for you. Wishing you continued strength and success as you navigate this journey.

anita

Thinking about you this morning, Chris. How are you?

anita

Dear Chris:

Thanks for sharing your update. It’s so good to hear that things are looking up for you! I’m glad you’ve found some relief knowing your case won’t hold you back anymore. That Thai language program and the opportunity with Fit Corp Asia both sound really exciting—I’ll keep my fingers crossed for your interview! (🤞🏼)

Your monk’s advice, “Storms never last,” is such a powerful reminder, and it’s clear that you’ve lived through some very tough times. The strength and resilience you’ve shown, not just in moving forward but also in letting go of the past, is really inspiring.

It’s amazing to see how much you’ve grown and how confident you feel about handling whatever challenges come next. I hope your new path brings you the peace, acceptance, and fresh start you deserve.

Wishing you all the best in this next chapter of your journey. I’m here if you ever want to share more.

anita

Dear Chris:

Thank you for sharing such a meaningful moment. It sounds like sitting under that tree and letting your emotions out was a truly healing experience. Sometimes, we don’t even realize how much we’ve been holding in until we let it out— and nature has a way of helping us do that.

I can only imagine how deeply ingrained compartmentalization must have become for you during your deployment. It’s understandable that those patterns stayed with you afterward, but it’s so encouraging to hear that these last few weeks have brought positivity and moments of release. It’s a testament to your resilience and your willingness to embrace your emotions that you’ve been able to find this sense of clarity and renewal.

The way you described the stranger’s understanding reminds me of how shared humanity can show itself in small, unexpected ways. It’s comforting to think about how those quiet moments of vulnerability— whether in nature or here in this forum— can bring so much relief and connection.

I hope this new chapter continues to bring you more of these moments of peace and self-discovery. Please know that I’m here to listen and support you however I can.

anita