I want to speak directly to the people of Lynnwood about my past, the lessons I’ve learned, and what they mean for the person I am today.
More than five years ago, my wife and I were in a very difficult and painful period of our lives. We were both struggling with addiction and unhealthy patterns that caused real harm in our relationship. I take full responsibility for my actions and the impact they had on my family. Those years taught me some of the hardest lessons of my life — about accountability, forgiveness, and the power of change.
Since that time, we’ve done the hard work to rebuild our lives through counseling, recovery, and a deep commitment to one another. We’ve been clean and sober for more than five years. Today, our marriage is strong, our home is stable, and our children are growing up in a loving, supportive environment grounded in faith, trust, and hope. I’m grateful every day for the second chance we’ve built together and the opportunity to be the husband, father, and neighbor my family deserves.
My past doesn’t define me — what defines me is the life I’ve built since. I’ve turned my experience into purpose, mentoring others and helping families who face the same kinds of struggles I once did. Through that work, I’ve learned that redemption isn’t about forgetting where you’ve been — it’s about what you do next and how you use your story to make a difference.
That’s why I’m running for Lynnwood City Council. I want to represent families who know life isn’t always easy — who understand that progress often comes after pain, and that accountability and compassion go hand-in-hand. I want to bring that understanding to city government — to fight for practical solutions to issues like housing affordability, mental health support, and family stability. My goal is to help build a city that believes in second chances and supports those who are working to rebuild.
I’m not afraid to talk about where I’ve been, because I believe open and honest conversations about struggle and recovery make our community stronger. I hope my story serves as a reminder that people can change, that families can heal, and that the best measure of a person is not their past, but the life they choose to build moving forward.
Please feel free to reach out and talk with me any time. I don’t hide from my past — it’s the very reason I’m running to represent you and to serve our community with honesty, integrity, and heart.
Bryce Owings
Candidate for Lynnwood City Council
425-405-0034 Bryceowings@gmail.com
COMMENTARY DISCLAIMER: The views and comments expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the Lynnwood Times nor any of its affiliates.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
