December 23rd, 5am. It’s Pull Day: Rows, single-arm rows, deadlifts, shrugs, and curls.
I’m up automatic by discipline. I stretch, drink some water, and get to work. I can tell I’m itching for weight now — my bands are no longer a challenge. No issue immediately. I just know I’m ready for a new challenge.
I take my time moving through my flow. Round after round, I feel better and more focused.
I think to myself: “This is going to carry over in the gym nicely.” I’ve been out 3 years now and look forward to my new January plan I have structured. I’ve created a blueprint to not only return me to form but to reach new heights in my fitness and physique.
I remember dipping in weight — I was down to 190 pounds. For reference, I’ve usually hovered around the 230 mark, occasionally being heavy as 280, 315 being my heaviest. I have prepared my body over the last 9 months, really locking in the last 3 and rebuilding. I am currently at 250lbs — not fat. I’m 6’1 and prefer a larger build. I’m strong in body.
I often get told by strangers: “I felt you before I seen you.” I’m still figuring that out.
I wrap up, jump in the shower, self-talk and prime.
For breakfast: 4 organic brown eggs, a whole bag of organic baby spinach, and a double scoop of creamy chocolate fudge protein with a tablespoon of peanut butter. Massive, I know. I clocked 80g of protein to start my morning. Excellent start.
Today was one of those days where things happened I didn’t agree with, but I didn’t ruminate on it. I didn’t worry. I didn’t complain. I didn’t bicker. I just made adjustments on the fly and kept moving.
I’ve learned not every day goes your way and that you have to roll with the punches. For the most part, you will make it through.
I often think days like today — and it could just be me — is a test to my patience, perseverance. I think life is testing me. It wants to see how I will react now.
“I’ve given you some really good days, some good days, some okay days, some mixed days. Now I will throw you a monkey wrench. Show me how you respond.”
I think of these things, and from past experiences, my response is simple: I still have faith. I still believe in myself. I believe in my plans. I will not flinch.
I am calm. I am collected. I think not out of emotion. I respond with a mature outlook and I overcome.
I am different now. I am responsible.
Though many instances tried to sway my thinking today, I found ways to express joy, laughter, gratefulness, and kindness. I am new. I don’t do the things I used to do. I don’t think the way I used to think. The old Garry is gone.
I have too much to be thankful and grateful for. I don’t take it personal — life just wants to know if I’ve really changed.
And today I answered: I’m better. I am more. I have changed and I love the person I am.
I do.