Today is Easter Sunday in many parts of the religious world. It’s a day for appreciation of faith, family and life. Admittedly, I haven’t been the most devout follower, but I’ve been thinking lately about how fortunate I am. I’m learning through trial and error that there are many layers of wellness.
This blog was mainly started due to dramatic weight loss I experienced during the pandemic five years ago (wow). While I have chronicled the ups and downs of weight management, I don’t think I’ve discussed other aspects of wellness enough. For instance, my weight management is progressing nicely. I’m at 200.2 pounds and I can clearly see positive changes in my body composition. However, other areas of my life are not so great.
My career is not where I’d hoped at this point. This is due to circumstances and questionable choices. Sometimes I went left when I should’ve gone right. Who knew the ripple effects of such decisions, but that is life. The other issue is how one handles the ups and downs of life. I can’t say that I’m in the position to author a master class on that subject. I’m a work in progress.
Most importantly, I don’t think I’ve done a great job of appreciating what I have. In fact, I think I’ve taken so much for granted. Unfortunately, sometimes all I can see is what I don’t have or what I might not have if I don’t play things right. I’m learning that it takes effort to stop and reflect on all the seemingly little things that are actually invaluable.
Health is certainly part of that equation. For the most part, my family is healthy. And that is a blessing. I can walk or run with my children. I recently did more than 20K steps in one day without subsequent leg/foot issues. I think my work has contributed to my increased movement as I’m often on my feet.
I’m also thankful for the continued opportunity to have life experiences. I’ve been so fortunate to have seen parts of my country and the broader world. Last year, I made trip of a lifetime to Peru to visit Macchu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. It was breathtaking to experience one of our world wonders, trying to imagine existence at the time when this hidden city was at its heights.
Life is far more than hitting the gym and tracking calories. I’m actually encouraged with my gradual pace of body/weight changes. However, I continue to learn that it’s really a small part of the life equation. The layers of wellness span far beyond the superficial. I pray that I can find and maintain that balance of life perspective.