“One should not pursue goals that are easily achieved. One must develop an instinct for what one can barely achieve through one’s greatest efforts.” – Author Unknown
A simple quote with a profound meaning; one I now live my life by and one I see occurring each day as I walk into CFU. A brief background for those that don’t know me: my name is Nathan (aka Nate), 31 years old, married (Mindy), one child (Corbyn), one dog (Tavn’r), and employed (Missouri Department of Conservation). My crossfit story begins back in June of 2013 when Coach offered a special trial price for new members. During the month I began to notice changes in my appearance as well as my overall physical ability. However, as with most things, life had other obligations that required my attention with Mindy and Corbyn being at the top of this list. At the end of June I faded away from the box with only excuses as to why I couldn’t continue. Over the next 10-11 months I enjoyed spending time with my family and friends, eating too much food, the occasional adult beverage and I began to pack on the pounds; or as I refer to it, building my own winter coat.
Fast-forward to the end of May 2014, I was disappointed in how I looked, my health, and my activity level. Overall, I was disgusted with myself and felt as though I was a failure to my family; specifically to my son. What kind of role model was I being for him? Did I want him to end up this way? After not appreciating the responses I was providing to those questions I discussed the situation with my wife, and we made adjustments to our budget so I could become the father and husband I once had been. I called Debbie and told her I wanted to sign-up for 3-months so I would be accountable to myself and my investment. Since June 1, 2014, I have accomplished more in 7.5 months than I have in the last 31 years. In January 2015 I suffered an injury to my shoulder and started the same downhill slide that would have me questioning my ability to complete a WOD; it is truly amazing how your mind has the ability to be supportive one day and tear you down the next. With the help of the Coach Roz and the CFU trainers, they helped me realize that this injury soon would pass as long as I modified and continued to do things that would help me get back on track.
After 7.5 months, I have lost weight and my pant/shirt sizes have changed, but most of all I have found the confidence to once again strive for the unattainable. My appreciation goes out to my wife and son, because without them I wouldn’t be where I am today. I would also like to thank Coach Roz, all of the trainers, and my CFU brothers and sisters as you push me each day to be better than the day before.
Earlier this week, Corbyn came home from school singing, “Nothing is impossible with God – Luke 1:37.” This simple song by such a young child reminded me that nothing is impossible, especially with God. I, along with many of the members at CFU, have been able to accomplish feats we once assumed were only possible by a true athlete. Daily, I’m reminded that nothing is impossible when you set your mind right as everything else will fall into place. Each member at CFU continues to push themselves farther each time I see them at the box, and I am privileged to have met each and every one.
“Stop comparing yourself to others and start competing with yourself; that is the true battle.”
CONGRATS Nate on your Transformation! I’ve really enjoyed watching you give it your ALL these last 7.5 months! You ARE Possible! 🙂 Thank you for your dedication and perseverance at CFU. You are definitely making an impact in your families’ life with how hard you work on YOU…Keep doing Great things!
A little side note…I knew Nate when he was a little kid as we belonged to the same church, St. Paul’s Lutheran in California. Kinda crazy how our paths have crossed again! Nate, you are a Blessing to Everyone at CFU! 🙂
