A Little About Me.
Born in Buckinghamshire, England, I lived a typical life in the countryside, drawn to open spaces near coastlines rather than bustling towns or cities. This affinity shaped my career trajectory early on when, as a young deck officer cadet, I embarked on journeys around the globe, sparked by the allure of generous leave periods that allowed me to explore the emerging world of desktop computers in the workplace.
My Origins
Delving into the realm of desktop PCs proved to be a natural evolution for me. Initially working on inoperative IBM machines, I swiftly gained expertise and authorization, propelled by the guidance of IT support engineers. Within eighteen months, I was an IBM-authorized professional, traversing the UK to provide comprehensive Desktop Support services.
My journey in providing Desktop support continued, with accreditations and certifications earned from reputable entities such as Mannesmann Tally, Apple, Hewlett Packard, Wyse, Compaq, Microsoft, and various smaller vendors. I extended my support to esteemed companies like Rhone Polenc Rhôrer, Amersham International, National Westminster Bank, Blue Circle Cement, Deutsche Bank, and Compaq (UK), each engagement enhancing my proficiency. Notably, my tenure at Deutsche Bank was a pivotal chapter that coincided with a momentous historical event, the aftermath of which momentarily halted my IT career.
Beyond my corporate endeavors, I maintained my passion for Desktop support by assisting friends with computer issues, furthering my expertise in computer graphics and front-end web development. Embracing the ethos of simplicity, I prefer hand-coding to eliminate extraneous elements and focus solely on functional aspects. This approach, exemplified by the hand-coded creation of this website, highlights my dedication to precision and efficiency in design.
During this period, I also explored Linux, particularly favoring the versatility and robust support of OpenSuse. Its resilience, bolstered by dedicated programming teams and a foundation in proven SLES server variants, aligns seamlessly with my creative pursuits such as web development.
Currently residing in California, USA, I am embarking on a new phase in my life amid the challenges and opportunities presented by the ongoing pandemic. Eager to contribute my expertise to the dynamic field of IT support and web development, I remain committed to lifelong learning and embracing new technological advancements. Fuelled by a passion for creativity and innovation, I leverage Open Source software, particularly the reliable OpenSuse distribution, renowned for its stability and global support network.
Embracing diverse interests from IT support and Linux to outdoor adventures and travel, my experiences in the United States have been enriching, offering me insights into unique perspectives and approaches. As I continue to expand my horizons and stay abreast of evolving standards in web programming, my dedication to excellence remains unwavering, driving me to excel in every endeavor I undertake.
Skills & Experience
Wild Your Heart
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Embrace your Authentic Self. Recognize the significance of embracing who you truly are by accepting your inherent personality. While addressing any habits that require attention, avoid altering yourself to meet others’ expectations. Your unique essence contributes positively to the world, and suppressing it may lead to internal turmoil and negative consequences in your life.
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Initiate the Habit of Journaling. Cultivate the practice of journaling with dedication and discipline. Documenting your thoughts, emotions, and ideas serves as a therapeutic tool, aiding in self-discovery and clarifying your life goals. Through this process, you can identify your genuine aspirations and gradually unveil your true desires. Reflect on ways to infuse excitement into your current circumstances.
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Nurture Your Aspirations. Preserve the essence of your dreams and integrate them into your present reality. Adjustments may be necessary, serving as a reality check to refine your aspirations accordingly. Refrain from compromising your dreams due to perceived obstacles; instead, actively work to eliminate external barriers hindering your path to realizing your aspirations.
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Cultivate Gratitude for Present Blessings. Acknowledge and build upon the positives in your life, regardless of the circumstances. Even in challenging situations, draw strength from examples like Christopher Reeve, who maximized his remaining years post-injury. Redirect your focus towards gratitude for the blessings you possess, fostering resilience and a positive outlook.
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Value Counsel from Trusted Individuals. Discern between constructive criticism from respected sources and superficial feedback from unfamiliar or unappreciated individuals. Reflect deeply on critiques from those who know you well and whom you hold in esteem. By heeding their feedback sincerely and introspecting, you can refine your behaviors and maintain a balance between personal freedom and self-improvement.
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Retain a Sense of Adventure Over Materialism. Prioritize meaningful relationships and experiences above material possessions. Excessive materialism can ensnare you in a cycle of accumulating possessions that ultimately restrict your freedom and hinder genuine connection with others and the world around you.
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Distinguish Between Anger and True Freedom. Recognize the disparity between anger, characterized by negativity and resentment, and true freedom, rooted in self-awareness and pursuing life’s enriching experiences. Unshackle yourself from the confines of anger to embrace a vibrant existence where you can evolve authentically and contribute meaningfully to society.
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Embrace Outdoor Exploration. Break free from the confines of routine by venturing outdoors, whether through brief breaks or extended excursions. Engaging in outdoor activities liberates you from feelings of restraint and monotony, fostering a sense of freedom and rejuvenation essential for personal growth.
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Define Your Identity Independently. Acknowledge the paradox faced by individuals seeking independence yet longing for external validation. Take time to bolster your self-worth and convictions autonomously, detached from external influences. By fortifying your sense of self, you cultivate resilience to withstand criticism and confrontations without seeking external validation, promoting personal growth and self-assurance.