Mike’s Story

Mike Petracek’s story:

I was raised by my parents along with three other siblings on a mixed farm near Langenburg, Saskatchewan. I loved the farm life as it gave me a great work ethic that carries on to this day. After graduation I moved to Alberta and was working as a carpenter. I met my wife while working in the Edmonton area and we were blessed with two boys and a girl.

My marriage broke down:

 There became a struggle in our marriage to resolve concerns as we had a lack of communication. Routines were the same but something had changed. Not having an understanding of my kids personalities would frustrate me when they did things in their own way. I had unrealistic expectations of my family and eventually lost them for a period of time.

I was a workaholic that lost respect from my wife but received respect from my customers. In my ignorance I would shut down the hopes and dreams of my wife because they weren’t financially viable. 

When my wife said “I can’t do this anymore” a journey began for me that was full of many questions, tears and frustrations. With life so chaotic I had no idea what to do. I began searching for answers from psychologists, friends, men who had gone through divorce, my pastor and the bible for wisdom. I enrolled in personal growth & development courses to understand my kids personalities and restore our relationships. 


When my wife said “I can’t do this anymore” a journey began for me that was full of many questions, tears and frustrations. With life so chaotic I had no idea what to do.



“Without forgiveness I don’t know how a person can move on.”


 

Who I am now:

Eventually, I was able to accept and forgive myself for the divorce. I forgave everyone that wronged me intentionally or unintentionally. Without forgiveness I don’t know how a person can move on.

  I am accepting full responsibility for my failed marriage.  

 

My life is now full of answers, huge rewards and positive changes. I move ahead open, honest and in victory. A man of integrity!