Terrified

Two weeks ago I did something that terrified me.  I have often done things that terrify me, most of the time I have no choice.  I can think of two terrifying choices I have made in the past two years that I didn't have to make.

My first terrifying choice happened the day I decided to begin CrossFit.  I have exercised in some form all my life, but nothing I have done has been sustainable.  I would work for 8 weeks, get a cold and have a setback or I'd get bored or I didn't get the results I ultimately wanted.  After breast cancer and MS, I had lost most of my muscle.  A large amount of fat came on with no invitation. I felt weak and tired and needed help.

I stepped into a box (the name for a CrossFit gym) with my 14 year old daughter. After a couple of days I felt stronger and more energetic.  Today, when I walk into my box I am coming to see a part of my family. The people care about me.  They want me to succeed.  They want me to be the best I can.  I don't have to figure out what to do, the coaches tell me.  I don't work alone, we work as a class on our individual goals to reach our personal best.

CrossFit has made it possible for me to continue working.  Without the energy and strength I get from workouts, I wouldn't be able to make it through a work day.  It helps my brain act more efficiently.  I know that if I relapse, my current health will help me bounce back faster than I did before.

Walking into the box for the first time was terrifying.  I'd heard what others had heard, but I had also seen healthy people walk out the doors.  I didn't know if I could do it or what I would ultimately be able to do.  I didn't know if I would enjoy it.

It has been almost 2 years of consistently showing up to my favorite box. The terrifying turned into a blessing.

The second most terrifying thing I have chosen to do was to start this blog.  The first day I pressed "Post" my heart was racing like a wild mustang.  I quickly got confirmation that this was the right thing to do.

Both terrifying events could have been ignored.  I didn't have to do either, but I also wasn't going to be hurt by trying.  Both events have made me better and stronger.

Don't be afraid of the terrifying, it could be the best decision you make.