How to find oneself

I know I'm milking my conversation with Marcus for all it's worth, but given that his words are a treasure-trove of lessons and information, I have no shame about it.

Marcus has the most self awareness out of any person I have ever met. You might be wondering, as I was, "How does one become so in tune with themselves?" Well, let me share my theory on it.

How to find oneself:

- Lose yourself: Marcus seemed as if his identity was stripped away from him when his parents separated. This led him down the downward spiral of joining a street gang with his cousins. He was at rock bottom, but the only direction you can go from rock bottom is up. It's important to remember that.

- Struggle: Marcus lost his mother, father, and daughter within the span of four years. He saw God's plan through that. As much as it stings, their mission was completed. Their deaths brought him indescribable anguish. That anguish is important though. As the poet Rumi said, "Being human is a guest house, each morning a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness. Welcome and entertain them all, for each has been sent as a guide from beyond." As David Goggins puts it, "You don't find any answers in the light. We already pre-programmed to live in happiness. The darkness, that 's where you'll find the answers."

- Introspection: Rest and reflection are important. When going through the struggles of life, take time to step away. Rest, sleep, ponder, think. Do what you need to do to keep a clear conscience.

Do these three things, and you'll find yourself.