Here come the heros!

[Jan Eveleth]

Disciplined physical work: control of your body (strength & flexibility)

Disciplined mental work: control of your mind (focus)

Disciplined community work: act responsibly and rightly (compassion, kindness & leadership)

Disciplined self-awareness: know and nurture yourself (balance and mindfulness)

And breathe. Don't forget to breathe.

Working towards black belt has been enlightening, liberating, and empowering. So far, it's been learning forms, finding that extra ounce of energy to finish the sparring round, and taking a deep breath before diving into those things that I didn't think would be physically possible for me anymore.

I wasn't sure what this next step would bring: "chart 5 (10 is better) living heroes."

Ok, I was skeptical. I can see how this might be good for the teenagers, but I'm over 50. What am I going to get out of this? Only one way to find out. Take a deep breath and dive in.

Hmmm. Heroes. Ok, I can think of some. No, wait,... they have to be *living* heroes. Oh.

Living heroes. Someone in government? maaaybeee. (Or maybe not.) Someone in the corporate sector? no. Someone in humanitarian efforts? Oh, yes, there is...

Once the first name came to me, and the reason why I felt that person was a hero, this exercise took on a whole new perspective. wow. My life has been full of heroes--all unique and dedicated people who had a positive influence on my life and of those around me. This was going to be a very personal, and meaningful exercise after all.

Over the next few days, I'll be writing about several very-alive-and-kicking heroes. And for those heroes to whom I never said 'thank you', with deep gratitude, "Thank you."

[MeLisa Turcott Strongheart]

Jan, so happy you shared this! I too felt that way when I started with the living hero project. Didn't know what I would get out of it, and I find, that it has been a very meaningful, and powerful process. And isn't it interesting, when you start thinking "living", so often we spend time, discussion, celebrating the lives of the famous heroes who have already done their work. It is good too to experience the gratitude and appreciation for these often unsung living heroes in our lives. I am so happy you are having a positive experience with the project as well. thanks again for sharing it:) take care, and enjoy the snow---