Saw this picture and it really made me think about how important it is that we set this next generation up for success. I think there are alot of stories out there about people that were told they couldn't do something and in turn, they used that to fuel them in completing their goals. I think something that goes unmentioned however, is how many people hear someone tell them they can't do something and in turn, never try to reach their goal. These are the people that when they are looking in the mirror late in their lifetime, have so many regrets and in actuality, it really isn't completely their fault they have these regrets. Somewhere along the way, somebody that was important to them, told them or convinced them, that they were not cut out to fight for whatever dream they grew up having. For me, anytime somebody tells me that I can't do something, I immediately take that as getting slapped in the face and will do anything/everthing in my power to prove them wrong. Some people aren't wired that way and they need that confidence from someone else in order to propel them in the right direction. There is nothing wrong with that, my challenge to you guys would be to be the “enabler” that is supportive to these goals and dreams, no matter how silly they may seem to you. We run into too many people that are afraid to chase after their dreams because of what people will think if they fail. So what, wouldn't you rather fail and say that you tried then to not try at all? There is something to be said about not putting yourself or your family at risk with crazy decisions, but it's ok to take the road less traveled sometimes and for most, the result of taking this path is much more fulfilling than staying on the well traveled sidewalk with the ice cream truck stopping by to see you every block you pass….
The future is our kids and we need to set them up to understand that they can do whatever they put their mind to. This is yet another reason that I love getting younger kids involved in CrossFit. I think it instills in them at a much younger age than most, the qualities of hardwork and discipline. It teaches them at a young age that they are capable of doing some pretty difficult tasks and gives them the self-confidence to stay the course when things get tough. At some point early on in their life, they are going to be dealt a pretty tough hand, the key is giving them the tools in order to get through it and continue to push. I am not saying that CrossFit can give kids all the tools needed, but it is a heck of a start.