This life we live can be broken down at any moment. We are intermittently reminded of how short our lives are when we lose someone close to us; especially if unsuspected. These events in our lives are traumatic, and sometimes take many months, or even years to overcome.
I truly believe we have to understand death before we understand life. Once we realize that life is so short, do we understand how to live it to the fullest? While no one wants to be reminded of past heartache, it is through their example of life lived, and life lost, do we take a step back and examine our existence. Any negative in life can be turned into a positive, because ‘EVERY BREATH IS A GIFT’ that can be taken away in the blink of an eye! When we truly comprehend it, believe me, you will find the small things in life just don’t seem to matter that much in the grand picture.
Imagine a culture where everyone gave their time to assist those who are less fortunate. If we each took a few hours a month to impact a cause close to us, do you realize what we could accomplish for the world as a whole? Yes, thinking holistically in that nature is very difficult, maybe impossible, but if the snowball effect took place, and every American set out to clean up a dirty street, plant flowers in a depressed area, volunteered teaching a trade, gave a suit for an interview to someone who cannot afford one, served at the food bank or even something as simple as speaking with an elderly member who has no one to care for them, it would make a world of difference! While giving money to charity is great, think about spending some time helping out –more importantly take your children with you and show them your example!
Use your life, and the every beautiful day we have been given, to dedicate yourself to a mission close to your heart. Don’t think too hard – just get started. It doesn’t have to begin grandiose, as it might be something you don’t even know will pan out into an amazing experience. I began running to lose weight. That running took me into marathons. Those marathons turned into ultra-marathons, and then distance swimming. I did it to challenge myself, and through that initial run in 2008, I have turned my passion for endurance athletics into Team Forever and the Forever Fund – charities I will continue to ‘run’ the rest of my life. Never in a million years would I have believed I would be doing the things I am today – all it took was the first step to wanting to better my life.
After dinner this evening, I took some time to look out over a windy, overcast, rough North Sea. I was simply spellbound by the beauty of the crashing waves and undulating dark water. It was as though I felt calmly at home. Earlier tonight I was swimming through that same rough water, with the wind whipping around and everyone walking by was smiling, wearing their heavy jackets and wondering who the crazy swimmer was out in the cold. The truth was that I loved every second, because I felt ALIVE!
When everyone is running away from something – run toward it;
When everyone is too scared to move – start the movement;
When everyone is saying they can’t push any further – knock over the wall.
Life is about experiences, and what we do with them. Endurance athletics takes a lot of time, dedication and energy – but I wouldn’t change it for the world. This is my calling. It has taken me to the far corners of the world, encountered incredible cultures and made friendships which will last a lifetime. Most importantly, I have used my passion to help, and inspire others.
Next time an idea comes into your mind that might better yourself or the world around you, don’t think of why it cannot be accomplished – think about how it can. Then remember those who have gone before us, and why we are living each day for them – one breath at a time.
Honor them by giving each day our best – anything less would be wasting the gift of LIFE.