Posts by michellejcrist

Born Deaf, I learned early to overcome barriers and build with what I had. As a kid, I sold roses, washed cars, and mowed yards—hustling before I even knew the word. In 2010, I won my first landscaping bid with no license, no vehicle, and only borrowed tools. I lost money, but I proved the…

This photo captures a hard day in my life. It captures the face of a young man who has made dedications to live his life for service. I’m hugging my oldest son who is just weeks away from his third birthday. My 20-year-old wife is out of frame holding our two-day-old son. My dad, a…

I grew up with a violent and temperamental father and a mother who found it easier to lie than tell the truth. Growing up afraid of conflict and not trusting others was and has been a constant battle. It has cost me friendships, relationships, and careers. The one thing that has stayed with me is…