Reflections at 46: Growth, Struggles, and Moving Forward
Another Year, Another Ride
It’s hard to believe I’ve completed 46 trips around the sun, yet I still haven’t mastered eating birthday cake in moderation or solved the mystery of disappearing socks, much like those elusive Tupperware lids. Sometimes, I wonder if my washing machine is secretly devouring them or if there’s an underground sock celebration happening in my house. Regardless, I raise a toast (Keto wine only) to another year filled with mismatched socks and questionable life choices. If I haven’t learned from them by now, chances are, I never will!
There are moments when I genuinely forget all the things I’ve accomplished, and I know I’m not alone in this. Who keeps an ongoing tally when you’re just trying to remember where you left your car keys, your coffee, or even your sanity? As the weeks blend into months and then years, the milestones begin to blur together, much like my attempt to eat salads for a month, only to give in and order pizza after three days or finding something air fryer worthy.
Getting back on the roller-coaster of life isn’t easy, especially after being away for a while. There’s always hesitation, like returning to the gym after a long break and realizing your shorts have mysteriously shrunk (surely the dryer, not the ice cream, is to blame). But today, I made it to the gym once again.
Rediscovering Motivation
Recently, I spent time looking through old photos and videos from years past, and even from the last year or two. There were moments when it was clear I wasn’t taking care of myself, and that realization made me sad. I made excuses, but eventually something inside me sparked. I stopped and asked myself, “What am I doing?” Today, when I look at a photo from the gym, I know I’m not exactly where I want to be yet, but I feel and look better in so many ways. Now, my motivation comes from progress, no matter how small. And we all should measure in a slow and steady way. Don’t be so quick to judge. Even the tiniest achievements are beginning to feel like real victories. It’s not about chasing perfection anymore; it’s about appreciating the journey and recognizing that every step forward, no matter how awkward or challenging, counts. With each workout, I remind myself to be patient and celebrate the fact that I’m showing up and refusing to give up, even when the path is uncertain.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
Today, I took time to reflect on my military career, which ended over three years ago. As I looked through old deployment photos, I remembered the days when I ran an average of five miles a day. Back then, I looked great and my health was at its best. But life took an unexpected turn, and everything quickly spun out of control. I found myself off that roller-coaster, feeling puffy and unhealthy in more ways than one. Life, stress, kids, marriage, and chasing imaginary goals was the death of me.
Partner workouts are something I particularly enjoy. There’s a unique magic in sweating together, even if it’s occasionally more suffering than anything else. Each person brings their own strengths and weaknesses; maybe your partner excels at squats but struggles with push-ups, or vice versa. It’s comforting to know no one has it all figured out, and that’s perfectly okay. In life, nothing meaningful is conquered alone and without fear.
Ultimately, the true victory isn’t about being fearless or doing it alone. It’s about showing up, laughing at yourself, and letting others share the journey. Sometimes, it’s simply having someone there to remind you to stretch so you can still walk tomorrow. This lesson applies to all of us. We may seem perfect at times, but everyone has flaws and room for improvement. Don’t try to do it alone, always bring someone with you or carry one another…to the end and to the still alive and breathing phase of life.
Celebrating Progress Together
Today’s gym visit brought a new perspective. There were exercises I was reluctant to tackle and tasks that she wasn’t eager to face, but those hesitations faded when I looked at the photo we took. What stood out wasn’t the discomfort or reluctance, it was how much we’ve improved over the past months. Our progress was visible, and the genuine happiness we felt from that progress was undeniable. It wasn’t just about individual achievement; the real value was in knowing we made these strides together, supporting each other every step of the way.
