13 Comments
User's avatar
Chris Riddell's avatar

I'm a big fan of your writing skills, but this one was a difficult read because I only want the best for you. Regardless, sharing your struggles and what you have overcome is inspiring to me. You are a beautiful person in so many ways John!!

Expand full comment
John Parker's avatar

Chris, forever and always you will be a special person in my heart! <3

Expand full comment
Vikas Reddy's avatar

Although we are connected only via the digital media (and the philosophy that we share through StrongFirst), I wish nothing but the best for your resurgence (not recovery). A thought that has always helped me in life when things get tough --> "Sharpest swords are forged in the fiercest fires". So don't let the fire consume you but let it shape you to become stronger than before. Stay strong and keep moving forward !

Expand full comment
John Parker's avatar

That quote is something I will remember and stand by! Thank you for taking the time Vikas. I appreciate you.

Expand full comment
Yosef Hirsh's avatar

Best of luck.

It takes more strength to do this then pressing a 48kg Kettlebell.

Expand full comment
John Parker's avatar

Thank you for your message Yosef. I’m up for the challenge! The social accountability was the thing I’ve been avoiding for many years.

Expand full comment
Patryk Piekarczyk's avatar

Proud of you man. Hope you continue on this path and are able to inspire others to do the same.

Expand full comment
John Parker's avatar

Thank you my friend, I appreciate your words.

Expand full comment
Heather Bartlett's avatar

Wow John I was moved to tears reading this! I have been really worried about you, a while back I went to share your Instagram profile with a friend to refer you and then realized I couldn't find you. I thought about texting or emailing you many times, but then I found you on here. You truly paved the way for my healing journey to begin and I am forever grateful for you. Thank you for being so vulnerable. You are an amazing human and deserve so much love!!

Expand full comment
John Parker's avatar

Your comment almost made me cry! I am so happy to see you Heather and I hope and pray you're doing extremely well.

Expand full comment
Heather Bartlett's avatar

Thank you! I am doing well - continuing my healing journey mentally, physically, and spiritually, and going through my own sort of rebirth as well. Also still figuring out how substacks work, but I'm so happy to have found you and to know that you are ok! Sending you prayers as you keep marching on :)

Expand full comment
Alex Leong's avatar

Beautifully said, John. Thank you for sharing your raw and moving testimony with us. You are a strong man inside and out. Onwards!

Expand full comment
John Parker's avatar

Honor and friendship to you Alex!

Expand full comment