On the eve of July 4th, we’re encouraged to remember and reflect on the magnitude of what transpired back in 1776. That period (can’t call it a single act) of defiance is what gave us the country we now love and enjoy. Freedom and independence!
I can’t help but draw the parallels between that independence and the independence one enjoys when they buck the norm of complacency, dependency on big pharma and reliance on assistive devices and take ownership of their physical health. It’s a fight – don’t get me wrong. I imagine it’ll get worse as I age, but for now, I’m investing in my future independence. That means I have a fitness plan for the new week, that I give 100% effort at the gym and I don’t give up.
What does functional independence look like in your sixties? “Papi, grab your mitt and come out and play catch with us.” “Papi, we wanna go on a bike ride.” What about your seventies? “Papi, take us on a hike in the gorge.” “Papi, can you show me how to fly fish?” “Papi, can I help you repair the deck?” What about your eighties? Standing straight up from the couch, grabbing the steaks and a beer and heading out to grill because guests are coming over.
Isn’t that all worth fighting for?