Wally,
I am speechless. I am humbled. I am honoured. Thank you for deeming us worthy enough to allow us to know you for who you are and to see the harsh cards that life so unfairly dealt you with.
You are a role model. You are a beacon of hope to all of us. You tell us that as cruel as circumstances may be, we are able to brave the storms and become a better and brighter people in the process. You can say something that most of us never can: "I walked through the valley of death and destruction; I had surrendered until I had nothing left to give BUT I pulled myself up by my bootstraps and turned my life around."
The fact that you've gone through all of this, yet you have just recently seen yourself through college SPEAKS volumes about your character, determination and worth. You are a powerful man and I hope that you continue to draw upon and claim your power for yourself.
Regardless of what your critics may say, be proud of your past. Be proud, Wally, be proud. For in it you were formed into the incredible person that you are but above all else, because you didn't only walk out alive, but a winner as well.
I look at you with the utmost respect and admiration!