A very good post, Sir.

I know I am strong willed individual. (as well as weak, paradoxically. )
I know me.

Having lived a hedonistic lifestyle for quite a while in my earlier years, I can say I know myself with some certainty.

Many have never faced real adversity to challenge their own belief system.
Hypothetical beliefs and principals without being tested are dreams.

I am fortunate (or unfortunate, depending on how you look at it,) to have faces the extremes of my personal beliefs.
To face challenges for real.

I can still look at myself in the mirror after all these years - and after the all the adversity.
And I am very happy with the reflection.
(apart from being butt ugly of course. lol)

An excellent, thought provoking post..