This weekend marks my twenty-sixth year around Sól, and with that comes a time of reflection on what I like to call the unexpected journey that others know as life.
Last October, I gifted myself with embarking on my Brazilian Jiu-jitsu adventure and with year one under my belt, both literal and metaphorical. It was one of the best decisions I made, even though it took me getting pushed to do so. Sometimes, we all need a little push forward.
Looking back on that first class, when a weaker, nervous, unconfident but courageous version of myself showed up and did what I could with a limited understanding of this martial art and how my body and mind would handle the brutal sport. Now, after one year, though I still have a long road ahead, the benefits have proven to be worth every bit of sweat. I’m physically stronger; my mobility is improving both on the feet and on the ground. I am walking farther than ever, rolling with all types of people: Not only the boost of confidence in my abilities if there ever comes a time to use them but also how I carry myself through this world. For that, I am grateful.
I’m the type of person who finds meaning in most things in life, and Jiu-Jitsu is no different. In one aspect, when you are on the mats, you want to face the situation you are in and not put your back to it, or else you will get caught up in something, and then the next thing you know, you have to tap. This lesson pertains to life as well. Have a problem? Then face it head-on and get it solved; if you put your back to it, then it lingers and grows into a bigger problem than it should be. The second biggest lesson is that if you want anything in this life, you must be willing to fight for it, because what is the point if you are not willing to?
Turning twenty-six is a blessing. Even though the years getting to this point were long and arduous, they were also great and memorable. I am where and who I am today with those years of ups and downs. I’m determined to see what the remaining years of my life, however more I’m blessed with, throw my way.
We are all undergoing a trek to the peak of the mountain of life, and there is no question that it is a test of faith and strength. Yes, a strong faith can move the mountain; however, some of us are built for the climb up.
Peyton.
