Although I have had a hard time adjusting to the way of life widely practiced and accepted in this city, Toronto is my home.

Well... at least it will be for the next few months.

As surprising as it may seem, this decision was made out of sheer necessity rather than personal comfort.

I have spent the majority of my life trying to find my place in this world, and although I strongly feel that I do not belong here, I am compelled to stay in Toronto for the time being.

This situation is not new to me. I have had the opportunity to live and train in some of the greatest cities and gyms this nation has to offer, yet, for one reason or another, I have left them all.

Only now do I realize that there is something to be gained by confronting this discomfort. These feelings would not be a continuous presence in my life if there was nothing to be learned from them.

I have tried to escape this reality for far too long.

I will find knowledge in fear, meaning in loss, and strength in solitude.

This is my path, and I refuse to run from it.