Jolted Back to Reality

I just watched a short story on TV about a former NBA player, Rodney Rogers, who was instantly paralyzed after suffering a devastating fall from his ATV. These types of stories really hit me hard. I was in such a trance while watching the clips of this one-time NBA star who went from dunking a basketball, running up and down the court, living an active life to suddenly being completely unable to use any of his extremities. I could feel myself sink down into my chair at the dining room table. My breathing slowed down and my eyes felt heavy. It was like I was almost watching someone I knew..

I think the reason I felt like this is because this story jolted me back to reality. I thought to myself, "screw being tired, who cares if I'm not happy with everything Eddie gives me for practice... So what if I wish this had been different or that had been different...I am living an incredible life..." I know I do this, and maybe some of you do it as well sometimes. I think we all probably worry a little too much about things and make topics in our lives seem a little bit more serious than they may actually be. As I continued to glare at the TV I thought back to practice on Tuesday when I was really unhappy. Why was I unhappy? I was with great coaches, in a wonderful facility, surrounded by my friends, working to prepare myself to be successful in something I have chosen to make my current life's dream. What the *&^% was I unhappy about?

Some of you might remember this but back in the beginning of April a Navy SEAL named Derek came to Austin to visit. I went to dinner with him one night and he said something to me that has really stuck with me. He said, "Since I've been a SEAL I've realized that unless there are bullets flying at me everything is probably alright." Maybe this is a bit of an extreme example seeing how most of us have never had bullets fly at us, but I think this really makes a good point.

My goal is to try and take a step back when I'm stressed and realize how wonderful my life is. Instead of griping about a hard workout, be thankful that I'm able to do it. Be happy that I have someone who cares enough about me to make his living at coaching me to become successful and to fulfill my dreams. Realize that everything along the way may not be exactly how I want it. Be accepting and confident in the fact that I will make the best of it and that it will become something great in due time.

Now I'm going to go to Whole Foods and search for a really healthy and tasty treat that has been patiently waiting for me to find it!