It was a sad
day indeed. All I could think about was the days running and playing in the
sun; the smell of sweet summer honeysuckle in the air. Back in those days I
hardly seemed to have a care in the world. Summers seemed long, the ice cream
truck was always on time and life was good. As these memories flashed through
my mind, I watched as they took box after box out to sell at a garage sale or
to donate to charity…piece by piece they were emptying the house where I had
grown up. Needless to say, I was blurry eyed and the lump in my throat was there to stay.
When it was
all done, the buyers signed the papers and within days crews started showing up
to put in new carpet, apply fresh paint and even remove my favorite tree out
front. Amid all of the commotion of selling the house, finding closure after my
grandmother’s funeral and such, I went back to the old house. No one was around
and maybe that’s a good thing. I sat in my car and revisited those old memories
one last time. It was amazing. What a fantastic childhood that house gave me.
The best Christmases and family gatherings were held within her walls. After a
short while, I smiled and said goodbye. I put the car in gear and slowly pulled
away with such strong mixed feelings.
That’s been
nearly 18 years ago now and even still I have moments where I flash back to
that old house and those days. I have moved on though. In fact, as I write
this, I am having a brand new house built and I am hopeful for many amazing
memories there. I look so forward with anticipation to this Christmas…and
summer…and new memories. Needless to say, that old house taught me a lot, but
one thing in particular stands out. Oddly enough, it taught me the importance
of ending things well, of having "good" goodbye's.
Looking
back, I realize that sometimes, in order to move forward and truly live life
well, you have to have “good” goodbyes. That’s right, you have to end things
well. How does this relate to your health and fitness? Like this: you have to
take the YOU that you are right now and spend a little time remembering the
good times. Your life has been a measure of amazement to say the least. You’ve
lived a unique, good, bad and everything-in-between kind of life. Most people, I believe, tend to hate themselves. While I understand this, I can't agree with it. You see, while you may hate aspects of who you are and what you have become, NEVER discount all of the good within you as well. I promise you, there is more good than bad! So now, when you are
ready to move forward, do so...but, do it
well!
We are
facing a new year and with that come amazing opportunities for you to live life
on your own terms. Think about the possibilities. By simply eating healthy and
exercising you can enjoy a super happy, super healthy life. Smaller clothes,
tons of energy and just fantastic health can all be yours. But, remember, end
each chapter of your life well. By doing so, you will be well served going into
your new future!
If you happen to be out for a healthy walk soon
and happen to see me in my new yard, stop and say hello and smell the
honeysuckle!
