It's hard to believe, but another year has come and gone!

For me, personally, I have continued to remain clean & sober, and been proud to pass the message of recovery onto those who are still sick and suffering, or simply not living with enough self-esteem or self-confidence in order to reach their full potential.

I make no secrets about the fact that for many years - decades, actually - I was simply going through the motions in life, rather than living each day with a purpose.

However, after being released from prison in 2004 and getting my book, "Jew in Jail" published, I now wake up each and every single morning with gratitude and fulfillment, proud of how far I have come, yet knowing there is still much more to be done.

I have learned that true happiness is derived not from material possessions such as money, cars or jewelry, but by peace of mind, goodwill towards others, and love of family and friends.

For 2014, I hope to be blessed with even more opportunities to spread the message of recovery from addiction and keep motivating and inspiring others, no matter what difficulties they are experiencing, either via my blog, book, or in person at the various venues I am asked to attend.

What does the new year have in store for you?

Hopefully, 2014 will be the greatest year of your life, as you surround yourself with positive, loving people, who help make you the best person you were born to be!

After all, you are definitely worth it!


If you haven't read my book, "Jew in Jail" yet, I strongly urge you to do so.

http://ning.it/Lk20hZ

It tells the story of how I was finally able to decide to turn my life around from my past addictions to alcohol, drugs and gambling, under the worst conditions imaginable of being a minority behind bars.

In addition, I also invite all of you to check out this speech I delivered in October of 2012 to a group of inmates who graduated from a drug program at a jail in Richmond, Virginia, to demonstrate that, regardless of one's past, it is possible to overcome any difficulty and go on to lead a productive, positive and successful life.

http://youtu.be/dE4DFCbXRF4

When I look into your eyes,

I can see the star that shines;

I can see the bird that flies –

Soul that’s kind and nice.

When I look into your eyes,

I can see how waves leave signs

Sharing Beauty of the Rhymes –

Wonders from all sides.

When I look into your eyes,

Love and Joy increase in size;

Dreams can break all bounding ties –

Freedom from confines.

When I look into your eyes,

I can see the Truth and Lights;

I can see the way to Heights –

Friendly, peaceful tides.

When I look into your eyes,

Days turn into magic nights;

Stars light up and bless our lives –

Life in Paradise.

When I look into your eyes,

I can see the star that shines;

I can see the bird that flies;

I can see God smiles.