I firmly disliked men who passively accepted what life handed them, preferring instead to take control of their own destinies. This reflects a strong desire for agency and the willingness to face challenges head-on, even if it means repeatedly trying and failing.
The speaker expresses their relentless determination by describing how they repeatedly attempted to shape their future, only to see it shattered multiple times. This indicates resilience and an unyielding commitment to forge their own path, regardless of setbacks.