My name is Jonathan Barclay. I have created Cycle of Growth because I believe in transformation of the human heart, mind, and spirit. The process that many of us go through in life can be overwhelming. I know mine has been at times. I believe that we are the writers of our own life stories, and if it isn’t going the way we had hoped then it can be changed. This website and my Youtube channel (of the same name) are serving as documentation of me making my best effort to change my story, and realize my life’s purpose. I have come to terms with the fact that I do not desire to live a life inside of my comfort zone. For many years I suffered with crippling depression that stemmed from childhood trauma. At an early age, I became addicted to drugs in an attempt to numb out the pain that reached an unbearable point. It was as if I had been trapped underwater, and using felt like the only means to breathe air. It worked for a little while, until in the end it only exacerbated the pain.
Ever since I was young, I have loved the adrenaline rush of adventure. My first addiction was roller coasters, and I continue to receive great joy from riding them. Traveling, creating, and treasuring memories made with others is what fills me with joy. I have experienced great highs and lows throughout my life, in many ways like a roller coaster! My story I am now realizing entails choosing what to focus on. I had a light and dark side to my childhood. At least from my direct experience, it is so easy to focus on the trauma: The dark side of my story. The aspects of my past that I have allowed to dictate my perception of myself. What if I desire to create a new story? A more grounded, realistic, and compassionate viewpoint of who I am? I will attempt to encapsulate a more well rounded synopsis of my journey here. Just as planet earth experiences both the light of day and the darkness of night at the same time, so should my story. I appreciate you for taking interest in my journey. It will definitely be a wild ride!