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“It felt good to be productive, to work outdoors, and to contribute to something bigger than myself.”

Marine Corps veteran

I recently spent time at Golden Forge, and it was an incredible experience that I’m truly grateful for. Being up in the mountains at the base of McIntyre Mountain, surrounded by nature and fresh air at altitude, brought a level of peace and clarity that’s hard to find anywhere else.

During my time there, I had the opportunity to work with my hands and be part of building something meaningful. We took what was once just a dirt patch—what we called the LZ—and turned it into a great gathering space with a propane fire pit, rope fencing, and a comfortable sitting area. I spent time operating the tractor, helping with projects around the property, setting up campsites, chopping firewood, and fixing small things here and there. It felt good to be productive, to work outdoors, and to contribute to something bigger than myself.

What stood out most to me was the environment. Golden Forge gives you the space to slow down, breathe, and really sit with your thoughts. Walking the property, exploring the trails, and taking in the views was both grounding and therapeutic. Being surrounded by good people like Suzi and Sam made it even better—they create an atmosphere where you feel welcomed, supported, and understood.

As a Marine Corps veteran, I know how challenging it can be to adjust to civilian life. Golden Forge offers a place where you can reconnect—with yourself, with nature, and with a sense of purpose. I would absolutely recommend it to any veteran who’s looking for that kind of experience. It’s more than just a ranch—it’s a place to reset, grow, and heal.

“Simplicity in life is freeing for me, and something I found again at GF. It gave me the time and space to slow down, even pause, and live in the present.”

Army veteran

As I sit contemplating my time at Golden Forge, I am very tempted to wax poetic.

I had planned pages worth of reflections for this book, but instead, I’ve decided to keep it simple.

Simplicity in life is freeing for me, and something I found again at GF.

It gave me the time and space to slow down, even pause, and live in the present.

So, I wish you beauty and simplicity for your life, and this mantra of my fellow Stoics to consider:

The obstacle is the way.

Now, go rest, relax, and recover.

“Golden Forge isn’t just a place—it’s a sanctuary. You’ve built something powerful here, and I felt it the moment I arrived.”

B · Marine Corps veteran

Thank you. For all of it.

You didn’t just point me toward this path—you walked it with me. Every step. Every check-in. Every moment where I needed a steady hand or a push forward… you were there.

And then you did something even more rare—you gave me space. Real space. Time to sit with it, to process, to start putting things back together in a way that actually lasts. Golden Forge isn’t just a place—it’s a sanctuary. You’ve built something powerful here, and I felt it the moment I arrived.

I’m incredibly proud of you. The vision you’ve brought to life, the discipline it takes to carry it forward, and the commitment you have to helping others do the work of healing—it matters more than you probably realize. This is life-saving work.

I am grateful beyond words to be in your orbit.