friends and my colleagues. Integrity and honesty are front and center.
Since I began my sentence, I have used my time to better under-
stand myself — my strengths and weaknesses. I am also using the
time to read, write and, most importantly, to grow. For example, I
have learned that it is important to set aside time to reflect on what I
am doing and the "rationality" of the thought processes and beliefs
that lead to certain behaviors. Like many people, I was constantly
"doing" and rarely just "being." This was particularly true during my
last few years at ArthroCare. Instead of taking time to reflect on my
thoughts, beliefs and actions, I chose to "check out" with endless
rounds of martinis. Had I slowed down and taken the time to truly
reflect on these things — and whether they were reflective of my
goals in life — my story might have had a happier ending.
Writing this article is also a big step in this journey. It was painful to
shine such a bright light on what I did and why, but it is also a relief
to finally be able to talk about things I couldn't talk about for years. I
am confident this article will lead to growth. I am also using the time
here to practice meditation and mindfulness. Being present as much
as possible is the best way to ensure that I never again get on a roller
coaster that has no exit. Thanks for being part of my journey, and I
wish you the best on yours. OSM
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A U G U S T 2 0 1 5 | O U T P A T I E N TS U R G E R Y. N E T
David Applegate can be reached by registering at jpay.com. David's register number is 63423-112. If
you're interested in David's experiences leading up to and including his incarceration, you can read and
sign up for his blog at etikallc.com/david-applegate.
