Million Dollar Cup of Water

A memoir of my journey from rags to riches, back to rags, and eventually to true wealth.

This book details the childhood that propelled me to chase money leading to Wall Street, IBM and CFO roles, but never satisfying my craving for acceptance. After posting a poorly thought out 2.5 minute YouTube video to protest for human rights by ordering a free cup of water, my company was harassed, subsequently fired me, and quickly issued a press release. That press release led to a public shaming on many media outlets, including the O Reilly Factor and the Daily Show.

Over the next two years I received many offers for employment that were immediately rescinded after employers Googled my name. With repeated rejections, an inability to provide for my young family, and the belief that my online reputation now defined me, I fell into an identity crisis that pushed me into the darkest time in my life.

Through an authentic soul search and the healing presence of family and friends, I faced a reality that had always seemed too frightening and humiliating to accept. This search led me to the most beautiful truth I had never known, a truth that is in everything and everyone: when we choose to live an authentic life, we choose to finally live.

When I lost my CFO position, I lost my equity in the company and six-figure salary, all amounting to over one million dollars in wealth, everything I was worth, or so I thought. The free cup of water turned into a million dollar cup of water that I would pay for all over again.

Public shaming continues to be used by our society, and toward me personally. A live example of shaming can be seen on my Amazon book link, where shamers have rated the book 1-star while gloating that they have not nor will never read the book.

The truth is not easily found in our public dialogue. May we question and be mindful of everything we read and watch.