Lion Heart

Lion Heart

November 5th, 2012 // 7:13 pm @ Coach Erik

 

 

 

Coach Erik here:

Never underestimate the power of the life force within your soul. I was reminded of this by an extraordinary seventeen year old named Matt McCullough.

Matt was born with a host of unique physical challenges yet this has never stopped him from living a full life and reaching for his dreams. I got to witness the power of Matt’s spirit as a member of Team Lion Heart, a group of coaches and supporters who would walk along with Matt as he took on his first 5k road race.

We all knew this would be a monumental physical and emotional undertaking that would push Matt to his absolute limit. On the outside it seemed (to me) that Matt’s cerebral palsy would dictate what he could and couldn’t do. What I didn’t realize was the life force within Matt transcended his physical challenges.

Over then next 3.2 miles I witnessed a miracle. Matt’s spirit came alive. He turned himself over to the challenge with grace, positivity and a level of grit and tenacity I have never seen in my seventeen years of coaching. The smile, the joy, the love that emanated from Matt was other worldly. Matt crossed the finish line that day to the roar of the crowd arms raised in triumph.

Take away: The great poet Rumi once wrote, “There is a life force within your soul seek that life. There is a gem in the mountain of your body seek that mine.” We all have challenges. The question is will we continue to allow our challenges to rob us of our dreams. We know what Matt’s answer will be.

Live Fit and Be Well,

Erik

 

Erik Hajer is an award-winning trainer, blogger and author of the book, LIVE FIT AND BE WELL: A Personal Transformation Workbook.(Amazon: http://amzn.to/t3z97A ) In addition to training for life, he is a 13-time marathoner and 5- time Ironman Triathlon finisher. 

 

 

 

Category : Blog/Vlog &Health & Wellness Musings