We began our PPLSI journey in 2001. We saw the value of the membership and bought it immediately because we could see that having affordable access to quality lawyers could reduce stress and give us the chance to make better decisions.

I was introduced to the LegalShield Membership when I was selling real estate. In the course of trying to list a seller’s house, the seller — a PPSLI Associate — sold me the membership. Later he sponsored us into the business. We got off to a slow start. In fact, it wasn’t until 2005 that I opened my first small group.

Our greatest accomplishment is earning the $100,000 Ring because it was not easy. The road was long and hard but worth it. The process taught us that overcoming adversity was necessary to win.

I primarily work the group side of our business. Robin helps me from time to time while caring for our four children, two of whom are type-1 diabetics. She also finds time to work a part-time job. Spiritually, however, Robin is the rock of our family and a great source of inspiration for me. She never gave up on me even when I had given up on myself. I never had to worry about her being upset or angry if our business wasn’t going so well. She would hug me, quote the Bible and say God would find a way.

Not so long ago, I had a terrible problem of being too hard on myself when I didn’t do as well as I thought I should. She would say, “I’m so proud of you.”

I would respond by saying, “For what?”

It didn’t really matter to me at that time how hard I had tried. If I didn’t reach my goal, I would beat myself up. I had to overcome that character flaw to eventually have success through faith, personal development and great coaching from Brenda Anderson, our upline Executive Director. She also believed in me more than I believed in myself. And she continues to be a great friend and mentor who tells me what I need to hear rather than what I want to hear. Fellow associate, friend and mentor, Nick Nicholas, has also shown me how faith can overcome fear through tough times. Associations do matter.

Our next goal is building a larger team and earning the $150,000 Ring. What we have learned is that the process of getting there is more valuable than the money itself because it fosters self-confidence, self-reliance, teamwork and peace of mind.

For associates on the journey, I would say embrace the process and surround yourselves with people who care enough about you to tell you the truth. Regarding adversity, Winston Churchill once said, “If you’re going through hell, keep going.”