My father's alcohol addiction and the resulting negative behaviors forced me to grow up sooner than expected. I never felt loved as a child, and as I got older, that feeling never left me. As I started my journey of finding love, I kept failing because I was searching in all the wrong places. I asked God to send me that special someone to love. While still searching, God answered my prayers, but I wasn't ready. After a near fatal accident, I questioned why my life was spared. God gave me the clarity to understand that a change was needed in my life. I realized that God wanted me to endure some pain and suffering in order for me to become a better person. I now know that God's blessings have always been upon me, and I am just beginning to understand why. About the Author Rudolph M. Bowers grew up in Chapin, SC, a small but growing town located a few miles outside of Columbia. The upbringing was tough, but he learned quickly how to survive and take care of his family. His mother taught him to be a leader, and he learned many life-lessons from his father. He is utilizing his leadership skills and those life lessons to enrich the lives of others. He believes that God places people in his life for a reason. As such he is currently working on a non-profit foundation that will help mentor young people in hopes of helping them to develop into independent and productive adults. Additionally, Rudolph is passionate about his family and enjoys spending time with his children and granddaughter.