Getting Back Up
“Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall,”
~Confucius, Chinese Philosopher
This idea of rising every time we fall is one that resonates over the course of human history. The Ancient Chinese philosopher, Confucius lived well before the time of Christ but his writings and outlook on life are as relevant today as they were 2,500 years ago. It may seem like the obvious task, to get up after you’ve fallen, but to many, it becomes more and more challenging to get up off the proverbial mat and face yet more from whatever opponent one faces over time. In short, some just quit getting up because the task facing them just seems too daunting. Life is full of roadblocks, impasses, and challenging moments. As we turn our attention towards a new year as well as a new decade, there seems to be an innumerable set of challenges that face each and every one of us on a personal level, national level, and yes, even a global level.
The new year traditionally stimulates people to set personal goals usually involving either physical health, financial health, emotional health, or some combination of all three. The reason we have resolutions is that we recognize the need to change for the better…be it something as small as drinking more water (which is super healthy for your body) or something with a higher level of commitment like working out at least sixty minutes a day. Whatever you choose as your change, whatever you decide to do for yourself, remember…it’s for you and not anyone else. Change is hard, new habits are hard to develop, especially when you are first starting out. If you break down into old habits that you are trying to change, you are not alone…most people fail…but what separates those who ultimately succeed are that those who stumble get back up and keep moving forward. As I get older, I tend to think about my health more and more. My goal this year
is to live a healthier lifestyle…move more, make better choices at mealtime, and drink less soda. It is a continuation of a modified lifestyle that I know will help me be in better health over time. Am I perfect, not by any stretch of the imagination, but my philosophy of, “…sure and steady wins the race,” is my guiding mantra.
The goal of getting up off the mat every time we fall is a theme we should always embrace in all areas of our life no matter how big or how small the fall. Getting up is not just a physical act but also a mental act and the more we get up, the more resilience we develop. I know that as we enter 2020, the certainty and stability of our world around us seems in question…Australia is on fire, the political infighting in our own nation has us in upheaval, and world peace seems to be on a razor thin edge as the drums of war are beating loud once again. It’s more important now than ever to be able to face the uncertainties of life with the grit and resilience that comes from getting up off the mat and keep moving forward.
As we begin our journey into the new year and the new decade, lets us all strive for the ability to dig deep within and find the grit and determination to face what comes our way no matter how large or small the mountain we perceive. Remember to take care of yourself and those around you…after all, we’re all in this thing called life together.
Wm Reid
Best Home Care Services
325 N Eastern Ave
Connersville, IN 47331
765-827-9833
wmreid@bhcshealth.com