And how does it feel to be you today?
Does it feel right? Does it feel good? Does it feel like 'this is really you?'
If it does, then you were living a lie in your youth.
You are not the only one to have a history that is less than pristine. But it is what you choose to do now and in the future that counts.
You are the way you are because of the way you were - it made you the man you are today. Be grateful for the experience that has grown you into a man that can care, and love and share freely. Not everyone can do that.
Also, it is ok to be proud of yourself for seeing a better path and choosing to take that path. Not everyone has the courage to do that.
It is a real treat for me (and probably others) to see your family growing and to see your success. You work hard at being the best dad and husband you can be, so you deserve your success.
I'm really looking forward to watching as you build your house and transform your land and grow a good batch of happy health little peppers.
So don't sweat that you have a past. Be grateful that you have a future. Just as the rest of us on Steemit are grateful that you are here, and that you are you.