My dream became a reality in 2006. My hard work and ability to stay focused and trust my inner self really paid off. There is so much each of us can give to the generations to come. I am just another person who had a dream. One I hope benefits the world – rehabilitates the world.

Every moment of last year was memorable to me. Every day was a story. One time, I was sitting with a taxi driver, and he said, “Sometimes you meet the wrong people for the right reasons.” His job was to take me from point A to point B, but, at that moment, I needed someone to remind me of that. Every time I met someone new this year—Oprah or a taxi driver—they taught or reminded me of something. I truly value every human being, whether it is a kid, a young man or an old woman. I have learned to enjoy people more—almost as much as I enjoy being around dogs. Almost.

This year, my mom finally set rules, boundaries and limitations for my dad, which was a big accomplishment for her. She told me that she has learned a lot from me. I have learned so much from my mother. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would teach her anything in return. It was a wonderful thing to be able to do.

I am very happy with everything in 2006—the good and the bad. I have not lost that thirst or ability to absorb any learning experience. Everything happens for a reason. Bad experiences test you when your faith is decreasing, so you can regain 100 percent of your faith and return to your instinctual, spiritual self. There is so much freedom in that to me. It is an incredible state of mind to live in. If I stayed in my emotional, intellectual self, I would go into, “Why are you doing that? Why are people like that?” You have to be able to live in it but not be affected by it. You learn how much faith you have. You learn to be connected to certain people.

It’s good to have some intellectual people around you. Every once in a while I take in some intellectual things, but then I step out. I let my wife Ilusion handle that realm. Emotions are also important, but you cannot allow yourself to be controlled by feelings such as fear, anger, or panic. They only make you a miserable human being and a bad pack leader. I’d rather focus on practicing the good emotions – love, happiness, excitement. I have to do what is good for the pack – the pack of dogs and the pack of people. The pack is always in my mind.

Every opportunity I was offered this year I seized as if it was the first time. I have a wonderful marriage. I have a large and healthy pack that is all my own, and I can proudly say that each dog has been spayed or neutered. I have a very solid life, professionally and personally. There’s always room for improvement, but I am very, very happy right now.

From a metaphorical point of view, I planted a seed many years ago, and I’ve seen it slowly growing. I have had the pleasure and honor to be surrounded by those who also feed my sprout - the employees. This year, my sprout has developed into a full grown tree, and it has beautiful things to give.

To me, 2006 was being able to show people my tree.

Stay calm and assertive!

Cesar Millan