Acknowledgments
It took a long time for me to muster up the courage to tell my story. I had spent so much time building myself up to become the strongest that I could be, I became so protective of myself that I never let anyone in. I did not realize how much strength there was – and is – in admitting our vulnerabilities.
I started down this Muscle Memory path by telling just one person. I waited a long time before I told anybody else. The more people that I spoke to about events that had caused me pain, the easier it became for me to accept myself for who I am. When I was finally able to put the words together, “I am a sexual assault victim”, people started approaching me saying things like “me too”.
I have met so many incredible people throughout my journey – I would not be here today if it were not for them. I want to remind my readers that help is always there if you are willing to look for it. It is OK to lose your way, but never forget that this life is yours to control in any way you wish. Never let anybody else decide life for you.
The following people have all played a part in helping to create this book. In their own way, they have each pushed me towards the most vulnerable thing I have ever done…writing about my own life – and connecting my personal dots. Without them, none of this would have been possible:
Jordyn Barker * Bryan Davies * Amrit Dhariwal * Zoë Janakovic
* Brittany Markovski * Catherine Nikkel * Mike Roganchevsky
It is these associations that have helped me refine my personal philosophy. It is not particularly novel, but it will give you a clearer sense of where I began, and where I am as a person today. There comes a time when you must stand alone. You must feel confident enough within yourself to follow your own dreams. You must be willing to make sacrifices. You must be capable of changing and rearranging your priorities so that your final goal can be achieved.
Sometimes, familiarity and comfort need to be challenged. There are times when you must take a few chances and create your own realities. Be strong enough to at least try to make your life better. Be confident enough that you won’t settle for a compromise just to get by.
Appreciate yourself by allowing yourself opportunities to grow, develop, and find your true sense of purpose in this life. Don’t stand in someone else’s shadow when it’s your sunlight that should lead the way.
Scott Barker
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SAULT STE MARIE, ONTARIO / April 22, 2024 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tagona Press is pleased to announce the forthcoming release of Kitchener – Waterloo native Scott Barker’s fine memoir, Muscle Memory. Barker has enjoyed sustained success through ventures where his boundless personal drive, innovative thinking, seeking out sound partners, and overcoming challenges have been Barker’s rate determining steps in achieving bold goals.
This insightful book is an artful account of Barker’s eventful life. He chronicles how unanticipated and sometimes painful experiences were eventually synthesized into a powerful personal philosophy. As an impressionable adolescent, Barker experienced the bewildering, devastating emotional pain of sexual abuse perpetrated by a trusted adult. He battled these demons for years before ultimately finding peace. Barker’s entrepreneurial triumphs were sometimes overshadowed by repeat battles with cancer and the constant fear that this dangerous adversary would return. Barker’s triumphs here were inspired by an unlikely hero – an 18 year old cancer victim possessing wisdom beyond her years.
Tagona Press publisher Bryan Davies notes that, “We are very proud to publish Scott’s memoir for two reasons. It is a compelling story – Scott is a winner who has overcome obstacles that many others would never have dared to face down. But more than its narrative appeal – Muscle Memory confirms why Scott is so wonderfully, irrepressibly human. His life story is a testament to what we can achieve when the odds are stacked against us.”
Barker and Tagona Press are donating 100 percent of all Muscle Memory net proceeds to the Dense Foundation charities, to help those afflicted by cancer and mental health challenges. Several of Barker’s longtime K-W friends and international business associates have given generously to assist these Muscle Memory charitable causes going forward.
The official K-W area Muscle Memory launch is set for May 22, 2024 at Catalyst 137 137 Glasgow Street, Kitchener, commencing at 630 pm. Book copies may be pre-ordered at www.tagonapress.com for delivery, or pickup at the launch.
Media enquiries (including requests for advance Muscle Memory review copies) can be made through Bryan Davies at [email protected].
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