Jesus is a warrior. So am I. My name is Neo. I follow Jesus into the Matrix everyday. We tear down strongholds. We seek to free slaves. Through my Lord, I have learned to be aggressive, passionate and courageous. It wasn't always so.

I was raised in a culture that glorifies violence, not as a means to protect freedom, but rather, as an iron hand that exists to fill the already bulging pockets of our capitalist dictators. This is a culture that treats women as sexual playthings to be used and tossed aside. This is a culture that treats men like little boys, because men, real men, are dangerous. They are wild and they want to be free.

I got married, had two beautiful daughters, Sarah and Rachel. I served a God that reflected my culture. A cold, overbearing tyrant with an unrealistic list of rules and regulations for me to obey.

I retreated passively into alcoholism, unable to fight for myself, let alone a wife and kids. I drank and drank. I was spinning out of control, pissing and vomiting my life away. Our family fell apart. I lost my wife. I lost my kids. I lost my friends. I lost my dignity. Financially, I went bankrupt. I had already filed bankruptcy in every other area. Spiritually, emotionally, mentally, physically. I was lost.

After my divorce, I started drinking like Nicolas Cage's character, Ben, from the film “Leaving Las Vegas.” I wasn't consciously trying to kill myself, but killing myself is what I was doing. I drank Jack and beer for breakfast. I drank beer all day long, and beer, wine and vodka until I fell asleep. I fell down a deep dark hole.

Three and one half years ago, I woke up. Through a man named Walter Mock, I saw Jesus standing over me with outstretched arms. I asked, “Why do my eyes hurt.” Jesus replied, “You have never used them before.” I found life. I found love. I found my manly heart, not a bunch of rules and regulations to live by. I got my kids back. I have Dad, Mom, Sarah, James, Rachel, Adam, Rick, Tim, Bob and so many more. I fight for them. I fight for them everyday.

I am an artist, musician, singer, songwriter. Jesus has given me the courage to pursue this. I have had my moment to shine, and I have shown brilliantly, a reflection of him.

Thank you John Eldredge for teaching me how to be a man, and thank you Jesus for making me one.

Jesus is a warrior. So am I. My name is Neo.