Exercise: Struggling for Motivation

I have been struggling to get on a consistent exercise program for at least a year.  I used to think I need be only as fit as my current lifestyle required. And since I work and go to school full time, I have had to rethink this approach.  So, when the opportunity to take a class involving camping and stretching myself mind, body, and spirit to a glacial mountain top in the Cascade Range came--I signed up! I figured I could dig deep and find the motivation to get in shape. 

I must report: not yet. Although I have been running, carrying a pack and speed walking, and even sitting into a squat when I have an extra moment—I confess I am not having a good time.  I thought I caught my stride two weeks ago but as it turns out it was the glass of wine I had after work with a coworker which made me run better.  What to do? 

Mentally, I ran through a list of people who have inspired me. One of the most amazing people I have met came to mind: Billy “Makata Taka Hela” Mills. This was my introduction to Billy Mills (number 722):

The crowd burst into applause. Billy needed no further introduction and stood up to give a speech with a spellbinding tale of his life woven skillfully with harnessed, but powerful emotions. As I look again at Billy's story I found I need to go inward and develop my own motivation. Or as Billy says in an interview: “Look inside yourself, believe in yourself, put in the hard work, and your dreams will unfold.”

After the speech I enjoyed watching a cultural celebration with Pow Wow dancing in full regalia and many of the audience members sharing a meal. I was standing next to a table and Billy came over with a plate of food and asked if he could use the table. I thought to myself “I’ll leave if you’d like me to.” But I of course agreed. I enjoyed every moment with him—he is a gentle soul.

I asked Billy if the Marine Corps let him train for the Olympics. He told me he worked full time and trained on his own time. Ok—there goes that handy-dandy excuse: I do not have enough time to exercise.

When I watched the video above I noted it is different from the one I saw during his speech and one memorable part is not captured. In the speech video Billy was not only boxed-in but he was shouldered hard by another runner--enough to momentarily distract him. If you have a moment you can see it here and hear about how Billy beat the odds and developed mental toughness while training. When I think about the adversity in Billy's life, I am awed by his resilience and perseverance. Billy overcame obstacles most of us will never have to deal with by finding his passion and believing in himself.

I have looked inward and I found my passion. I know the rest will follow.

Wakantanka bless you Billy. Wakantanka bless.