Hey @mechwarrior, that is a great lesson in life! I think your whole experience was a major gift to you if you always remember this lesson. It is way more applicable even in the real world. I had to go bankrupt 2x before I learned this lesson, and I'm glad to hear you say this.
You may have tarnished your reputation in the short term, but you have also earned credibility in my eyes too. I appreciate a person that can admit they made a mistake, and after all not one person anywhere is perfect. So being humble and admitting it is a terrific thing!
Great job and I'm happy to have you as a friend :)