Dave's Story
Early years
The road to 'Walk with Dave'
An unexpected turning point
Aww, look at that pic. Unfortunately, like for many of you, the child and teenage years for this little guy were rough at times.
A stressful home environment made it so I was anxious much of the time. As a teenager I struggled coming to terms with my sexual orientation and mentally turned on myself, perhaps to shield myself from being hurt by others.
By the time I was in my early 20’s I was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety. I saw a couple of therapists but it only got me so far. I didn't know where to turn and felt scared and alone.
An unexpected turning point
The road to 'Walk with Dave'
An unexpected turning point
I didn’t know that an episode of The Simpsons would change everything.
It was one from the early years where Lisa Simpson learns about Buddhism from actor Richard Gere. It got me to look into spiritual teachings that were different from what I grew up with, which set me on a path of healing that continues to this day.
While I don’t affiliate with any religion, Buddhist teachings taught me one of the most important lessons possible: that I have power to change my mind, body and life by turning my attention within.
After some initial meditation classes I launched onto my spiritual and self-development journey.The last 10-15 years of my life have been devoted to continued healing and spiritual growth. While there is always more work to do, I am feeling the best I ever have, and I am ready to serve others by sharing what I have learnt.
The road to 'Walk with Dave'
The road to 'Walk with Dave'
The road to 'Walk with Dave'
Starting in my thirties I sat many Buddhist Meditation retreats, did over a 1000 hours of Yoga teacher trainings, became certified in Life Coaching and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, explored Shamanism and other approaches.
I thrived as a Big Brother with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program and was a mentor at numerous youth meditation retreats.
Now through Walk with Dave I want to offer support to young adults that I did not receive - because I know so many of you are struggling to be calm and grounded in this crazy world.
I offer you some words of hope: All the best things in life - happiness, joy, peace, love - are possible, because they can be cultivated within you! It would be an honour to be there to walk with you on your journey to well-being and self-actualization.