A Lot Happening…

I’ve not posted in quite some time. That’s on me, I guess, but not without reason. So what’s happening? Life happened is what. Over the past few months, I’ve encountered various challenges and changes that demanded my attention and shifted my focus away from gaming. From personal commitments to unexpected events, each moment has been both a lesson and a reminder of the unpredictability of life. As I navigate through these experiences, I find myself reflecting on what truly matters and how to reclaim my voice in this space. I’m eager to share more about these journeys and reconnect with all of you.

In the past few months, I’ve planned a funeral and made legal arrangements for a trust; buried my Father, whose memory continues to resonate deeply within me; and have watched my wife’s heart break as we had to bring in legal intervention due to one of our adopted children, a situation that has been both heartbreaking and challenging. The emotional toll of these events has been overwhelming, leaving us to navigate a complex web of grief and love, while trying to maintain stability for our family amidst the chaos. The list goes on, as we also deal with the everyday struggles of life, finding ways to support each other and heal in the midst of such profound loss and uncertainty.

In response to the general business of life in this season, I have cancelled all game nights (both board games and RPGs) as my wife is the one bearing the brunt of all the craziness that comes with our hectic schedules. It’s simply not fair to ask her to give up entire weekends to a hobby that she frankly does not enjoy after a full week of putting up with a lot of trauma-inspired behaviors. The commitment to game nights, which once served as a delightful escape for me, has now become a source of additional stress for her, and I realize that my priorities must shift to ensure she feels supported and valued. By stepping back from these gatherings, I hope to create a more peaceful atmosphere at home, allowing us both to focus on what truly matters, which is our well-being and the quality time we spend together. It’s essential to recognize the importance of balance in our lives, especially during challenging times, and I am committed to fostering harmony in our relationship above all else.

Now I’m 100% certain this isn’t what my fans would like to hear. In the short time that I have been resurrected Juggernaut Games to run game nights under the name Phoenix Games I’ve developed quite the following.

Where do I go from here then? A path to reclaiming the time I was using to run game nights is encompassed in running my own specialty retail shop, where I can share my passion for gaming with others and create a vibrant community. However, as I delve into this reality, I find more and more that switching careers at my age may be both unprofitable and impossible, presenting numerous challenges that weigh heavily on my mind. The thought of starting anew in an industry that is constantly evolving feels daunting, and the financial risks involved in establishing a business only add to my uncertainty. Yet, the desire to pursue something meaningful and fulfilling lingers on, urging me to weigh the potential rewards against the fears that hold me back. Ultimately, I’m left grappling with the question of whether to take that leap of faith or to find a way to make my current situation work for me.

No matter how I choose to proceed, whether it involves chasing new opportunities or taking a step back to reassess my priorities, I hope to keep my friends close, for their support and understanding are invaluable during times of change. The bond we share provides a sense of stability and warmth, reminding me that I am never truly alone in my journey. Maintaining these connections will allow us to share our experiences, celebrate our successes, and navigate challenges together.