Crawl before I fly...

I have finally competed in my first meet since deciding to return to track and field after a 3 year hiatus. The results? 5.60 5.72 5.66 foul 5.84 5.53. Paltry, to say the VERY least. After hearing the results of my first attempt, a lot of things went through my mind. First was, "The measuring device is most certainly broken!". But after I overcame my initial denial, I thought "What the hell am I doing here?!". Yes, I began to doubt myself - something I seldom do.

My discontent was written all over my face. Some tried to comfort me by reminding me that regardless of my performance, I still was able place second. Others were more outspoken in their disappointment. In the end though, Coach was satisfied. "I am teaching you a brand new technique, different than any way that you've ever jumped. We came here today, to see if you could execute what you have been learning - distance doesn't matter right now, the jump WILL come!"

Above everything else, I was reminded that success doesn't come easy. One of my training partners told me the story of NFL great, Kurt Warner, who lead three teams to the superbowl and is a hall of fame inductee; only after bagging groceries for minimum wage when he wasn't picked up after college. When Michael Jordan came out of retirement, his first season was earmarked by a steal from him that lead to a loss in the play-offs to the Orlando Magic. He eventually took the Bulls to yet another 3-peat of the national title. Then there's Grace Upshaw, my personal favorite American long jumper, and one of the more consistent jumpers in the event. She essentially retired from track and field after college, but made a comeback after two years to make 7 national teams, including two Olympic rosters!

One thing all these athletes have in common is that they didn't quit! Had they quit after the first bitter taste of defeat (and it is bitter!) they never would have realized greatness. We all must crawl before we walk - in my case, fly!

Key's Reads Wednesday - Zen in the Art of Archery

Key's Reads Wednesdays

The last Wednesday of each month, I choose and discuss an interesting book that I've read. This month's book is 'Zen in the Art of Archery' by Eugen Herrigel.

The title sounds equivocal - but I assure you that this book is definitely a MUST read! It was referred to me by a history professor on my flight back to San Diego after the new years. He suggested it after I told him that I was an Olympic hopeful for the London 2012 games.

Zen is a Japanese 'art' that has been practiced and passed down in Japanese culture for centuries. This book is excellent for anyone interested in discovering a more simplified approach to life (which should be everyone) through an understanding of Zen. Using archery, Herrigel discusses techniques for applying Zen to any and every circumstance. Zen in the Art of Archery is chalked full of instructions, phrases, and examples of how one can "spiritually transform". The author uses direct quotes of his archery master from lessons in Archery to relay the concepts of Zen, and achieving the "Great Doctrine".

Not to be mistaken with a lesson in archery, Zen in the Art of Archery uses archery as a guide to explain the complex, yet simple, nature of Zen. What is Zen? In a word, enlightenment. Zen removes the emphasis of logic, and replaces it with understanding through thought and mediation. This book serves as a reminder that "everything is everything". One's own knowledge and understanding is insignificant. What matters, and all that matters, is the here and now. I don't want to give too much of the book away, and I don't want to divulge too much insight; as it is imperative that you keep an open-mind when reading this book.

A quick read of about 80 pages, I suggest reading it in one sitting. Then perhaps reading it once more within a week. It will change your perspective on life forever! Happy Reading!

xoxoxo

Twenty Ten

Happy New Year Everyone!

Are we still sticking to those resolutions? I hope so! My resolution was to simply work harder! I feel like I work hard already, but I def have room for improvement. I write down my goals for the day the night before, and make an effort to accomplish them the next day, as if there were no tomorrow. I have also committed to meditating for 30 minutes each day. Nothing real spiritual, just 3o minutes of quiet time to sit still and THINK everyday. It is actually big help! I highly recommend you try it at least once in a while.

I got to go to West Palm Beach for about 3 weeks over the break. I enjoyed being back home, but the weather was really weird - some nights it got down to about 30 degrees! I was so excited to get back to San Diego and the warm weather! Beginning to like Southern California more and more!

xoxoxo