May you always pursue the narrow path, a life that calls for something more. And not perfection, but fulfillness…something deeper beyond the shore. — Morgan Harper Nichols Continue Reading…
Stand by me
Do you think I’m weird? Definitely. No man, seriously. Am I weird? Yeah, but so what? Everybody’s weird.
As humans, our most basic needs for a happy and healthy life are food, water and shelter…and a sense of belonging. It is the loyalty, companionship, support, and protection we find within a tribe that fulfills an intrinsic need within us all.
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Volunteering: The Cure for a Long Face
Namasneigh
Arriving at Second Chance Cheekye Ranch, Sarah and I toss our phones in the truck and I set off down the long dirt road to the barn. We’ve both had a rough week, and are ready to do some “meditative shit shoveling” as I call it.
Arriving at the first paddock, we are greeted by a few horses poking their heads over the fence. For having such long faces, I’m always surprised how these animals are so sweet and gentle. Being from a rescue ranch, many of these horses have experienced a variety of trauma; from neglect and abuse, to rejection for being old, lame or injured. Continue Reading…
Absorb the transitions
I finally mastered the trail feature I’d been keeping my eye on for months—a steep off-camber double rock roll into a janky corner. It felt awesome! Since that success session, many of my morning laps finish on this trail because it sets up my day with confidence, focus and a shot of adrenaline!
However…just when I thought I settled into the new perfect routine, the trail changes. The rock transitions have been filled with dirt, the exit has been manicured, and everything has been mellowed out. My exciting lap has transformed into something a bit, unremarkable. Continue Reading…
Beyond the Treeline: The Courage to Stand Alone
Reach new heights
Much like the tallest tree in the forest, when you stand out from the rest, you’re at risk of exposing yourself to the most resistance. We learn early in life that fitting in keeps us safe. But what we don’t realize is that while being unremarkable may keep us below the turbulence, it doesn’t allow us to grow, to reach new heights, and to see beyond our limitations; and it doesn’t usually lead to happiness or satisfaction. Continue Reading…
Shifting Gears: How Gratitude Journaling Helps Happiness Flow
Exercise your gratitude muscle
What happened today that you’re grateful for? Did you have a lucky break, did someone say something nice to you, did you have an awesome bike ride?
Do you own a $7,000 mountain bike, live in a beautiful pocket of the world, have a roof over your head, and friends and family who love you, but still feel discontent? That’s probably because we’ve been culturally conditioned to focus on what we don’t have, rather than appreciating we have and how far we’ve already come. Continue Reading…
Get lost to get found
In a forest, I am lost among the trees: or am I suddenly found in a brilliant moment of clarity?
We don’t solve problems—problems solve us. They help us piece together who we are, requiring us to continually stretch beyond our comfort zone and confront our psyche. Every experience and interaction has the potential to help us grow—if we allow it. Continue Reading…