Building a Better Jay

In the course of any man’s life, there comes a time when he is faced with a situation which is not within the realm of his control.  A man defines himself in the face of these difficult situations.  He can resign himself to his fate and lay down.  Likewise, he can plan and act to exert his available control over his present and future, mastering the situation.  I’d prefer the latter to the former, though I would enjoy a nice nap on occasion.

It was a bit difficult moving here at first.  I wrote the above when I was reflecting on the insanity of moving to another country.  Some things, you get the opportunity to change.  Other things, you just have to smile at.  I have learned that when you admit that you can’t control everything, you can appreciate how much you can control.

…so I was still coughing forcefully last night and did not get to the gym.  This morning, I feel great!  With any luck, I’ll still feel great as the day progresses (and I can get back to building some muscle).

If you’re like me, your life revolves around your appointment book.  I have meetings all day (yes, in German), schedule my lunch, schedule in a German class, and even schedule in what time I need to leave work.  (Very strict labor laws over here.)  I have also found I need to schedule meals and workouts.  Without blocking off that time, the end of the day comes and I don’t make it to the gym.  Do I feel silly having to block out that time?  Not really.  It’s important to me.  I ensure that it comes after my son is asleep and while my wife is dutifully employed doing some relaxing activity at home.  Then, I head to the gym and rush home for a quick shower.  I eat my post w/o meal while talking with my wife about the day or watching some TV (maybe a movie, but not often).  My point is simple, I really enjoy working out.  It makes me feel and look better.  It makes me happy.  It keeps me healthy.  What more could a guy want?  Of course I’m going to make time for it!

I’m actually feeling quite good this morning.  I can breathe again, which feels great!  I have a slight cough still, but I think I might be able to get to the gym this evening if that is all that is lingering by this evening!  YAY!  I hate colds and I hate being away from the gym.  I’ll have to write a bit about my German gym in the near future.  It is really the same as any American gym, just a different language.