A few weeks before my mom passed, some friends and I had put a guy’s trip together. We wanted to get away for a few days to fish, enjoy the outdoors and recharge with our friends. The trip was scheduled to be on the same weekend as my brother’s birthday, but we are at an age where that stuff isn’t a big deal. We both have families and are very lucky if we actually see each other or celebrate together on our actual birthday. But when my mom died, all I wanted to do was be close to my brother.
I asked my brother to come with me. I told him I didn’t want to be gone for his birthday. I wanted to change my flight, if he couldn’t go with me; or I wanted to change my plans and go somewhere else with him. My brother needed to work and he told me to go on the trip, so I went. I know deep in my heart that my brother doesn’t need me to be in Texas to walk through what is going on. I think I was looking for a reason to stay close to home and in my comfort zone.
I spent a few weeks close with my family and we had a really nice service for my mom. It was a special time celebrating her life and remembering all the wonderful memories we have of her in our lives. I can see that I have no choice but to move forward and to find peace with this new reality, so this trip became my first opportunity to step out and do that. On the trip, I was able to disconnect from work and from all of the stuff that had being going on at home. I was able to be present with the guys on the trip and to relax and be myself.
When I am in community, I am reminded of what God’s purpose is for my life. I remember that it’s not all about me and that I can be of service by simply being present in someone’s life. I am reminded that we are for each other and that everything is going to be ok. I am reminded that God loves me.
In closing, I need to apologize for failing to post a blog last week. I thought I had held things together surprisingly well and prevented in slips at work. This time, I ignored every reminder and left town without my computer. Haha! Thank you for your patience and have a great week!
Neal
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WORKOUT OF THE WEEK
From Juan Martinez, Owner/Trainer at WTS:
As a strength and conditioning coach, I believe in the power of movement for physical health and mental well-being. Regular strength training can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and help manage stress.
Workout: Speed & Agility – Explosive Athlete Training
Please warm up appropriately before starting your training session.
Focus: Increase speed and coordination for peak performance.
- Sled Push – 20 yards
- Box Jumps – 5 reps
- Lateral Bounds – 10 reps/side
- Sprint Intervals – 15 seconds on, 60 seconds off
Rest 3-5 mins and repeat 3-6 times.
🚀 Want personalized training to increase power & speed? Let’s talk!Schedule a chat with an expert
Contact Juan at westtexasstrength@gmail.com
