Look Back

It is the eve of a new year. Looking back, this year seemed to fly by. So much has happened and I certainly feel like I have changed for the better. Of course when you look back your perspective changes. If you go about your life day to day thinking primarily of the present, you don't notice the time fly until you stop to look back. Keeping your mind in the present is critical to making progress in your life, this is very true. However it is healthy to slow down and reflect on the past or strategize for the future once in a while, but only once in a while. This time of year gives me this chance to reflect and balance, preparing for the year to come. See you all next year everyone!

Memories

The holidays are great. They typically give you a small break from the hustle of everyday life. Time is spent with family and friends as well as gifts are exchanged.

When I was a child, like most, it was about the new things I would get from under the tree. Why not, it is exciting to have shiny new toys.

Nowadays I find more satisfaction in seeing the joy someone has with something I gave them, whether or not it is material. In fact, I am shifting more and more towards activities and events. Something that will create memories. Something that inspires and can shared.

The memories last infinitely longer than anything material. Happy holidays everyone, see you in the new year.

Warm Weather

It's hard to believe this year is almost over, the months went by so fast. Given the recent weather, it makes it that much more difficult to believe that the official first day of winter is just a few days away.

Interestingly enough, this abnormal warm weather is causing an excess of icy walking surfaces. It can sneak up on you pretty quick, it would be harder to enjoy the holidays if you slip and hurt yourself.

This is just another reason to stay aware of your surroundings and remain mindful with what you do, including something as simple as walking. It also provides an opportunity to get in some acts of kindness by helping those who might have extra difficulty on the ice.

This weather does have it's benefits of course, no snow removal and the chance to perform lion dances outside in December. It won't last forever though so enjoy it while you can, winter is just beginning...

Debt

One of my goals this year was to rid myself of credit card debt. This debt was accumulated mostly on my motorcycle adventure in Mexico two years ago. The unfortunate reality of the economy hit me a few months later, I lost my job and was unable to pay it off as planned.

Last year was a struggle to stay afloat financially with all the interest I paying. We came up with a payment plan and a budgeting schedule with a timeline of when I want it paid off by.

I started off the year with over $21,000 in debt. I am now at just over $1,000 left, paying off the rest at the end of this month.

This was made possible by following through with my intentions and having the discipline to keep it steady throughout the year. Having an incredibly supportive family was a major factor as well. I greatly appreciate all the assistance I received in this endeavour.

It just goes to show that anything is possible if you are driven enough of achieve it and have someone to help keep things in perspective.

Reasons

Sometimes we get so wrapped up in the where and what that we forget the why. It should not just be where am I, what am I doing, but what about why am I doing it? What drives me? I looked back to when I first started Kung Fu. My original goal was trying to find somewhere where I fit in, something to help me confidently show the world that I had a purpose in life. I wanted something I could be passionate about and eventually pass on to others what I have learned.

So I began training, my skill and self confidence increased, but I felt I could do more. Then I heard about the I Ho Chuan program and thought that it would be a great way to accelerate my training as well as becoming more involved in the school. What I didn't realize was just how profound my change in mindset would be after even a single year in the program. I liked what I was experiencing and wanted more, so I signed up for another year.

As the years progressed I found myself feeling less concerned about simply improving my self for my own benefit, but to lead by example for others. I began to understand the concept of being the change you want to see in the world. If I work hard and do my best in everything I can all the time, regardless of reward or recognition, I not only improve myself, but inspire others to improve as well. This applies not only to my Kung Fu or involvement in the school, but every aspect of my life. Everything I do has an impact on those around me.

I may not be involved in the I Ho Chuan for the exact same reasons anymore, but I feel that is because it has satisfied my original intentions and replaced them with even more ambitious ones.