Thursday, July 22, 2010

LEGACY

On my way to coach the 6am WOD this morning, I had the radio tuned into 88.3 The Wind. During a commercial break there was an announcement that the station's manager, Ben Birdsong, recently passed away. From what it sounded like, his death was sudden and unexpected. I did not know Mr. Birdsong, but I was moved as the narrator of the broadcast discussed the type of man he was. He was described as the type of person who would engage everyone he met with gentle warmth and kindness. It was said that his life-verse was Philippians 2:3 which states, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourself. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."

It made me think about my life and the daily interactions I have with both those whom I know and love, and those who are complete strangers. If I were to suddenly pass, what would be the lasting impression I left them with? What would be my legacy? Even though I never knew this man named Ben Birdsong, I pray for the same character and conviction that he lived each day of his life with: To rejoice in every moment that I am given the breath to encourage, the opportunity to uplift, and the resources to help others.

Whew! Onward and Upward. As for my training today, it was a strength day. I did 7 x 3 Front Squat & 7 x 5 Shoulder to Overhead. My best 3 rep FS lift was 265lb. My best 5 rep Shldr to OH lift was 215. I got 225lb 4 times and failed on the 5th. After the shoulder to overhead progression I did a 2 min AMRAP of 135lb Push Press and got 43 reps. Forcing myself to rotate through these "strength days" has reminded me that they will absolutely crush you when you when you go at them 110%. Thanks to Grant and Seabiscuit for hitting this one with me. More importantly, thanks to Grant for not sharding on me during your last front squat set of 305lb- which, by the way, is exactly what I was talking about yesterday, dang it! I'd have gotten a million pound front squat if I was willing to dookie myself...Way to push the limits of turdload capacity, G money. I'm just sayin'.

2 comments:

  1. Love the blog today. I want to leave a legacy for my family and friends. Not for my ego but to show people that Christ changes you for the better. It is a daily process and by no means am I on the same level as Jesus. I try hard daily and many times fail. But he still loves me the same. My dad left a legacy. He lived Phillipians 2:3 each day. Stay strong and live the life.

    I did your strength WOD today with back squats and push press. The wrists have been hurting a little lately. I did not push the weight you did but I am sore just the same. It was late in the day at the station. I lose my mojo as the day goes on. I need to workout before noon or I lose my desire. I did finish with 50 wall balls. I tried to minimize rest and get done quickly.

    I appreciate your comments from the games and speaking your heart. I look forward to your blog each day.

    See ya later
    Brian

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  2. Ben was a man of character and he and his wife were true from the inside out. They recently began raising their grandson who has some special needs. They were truly an amazing couple and had a marriage worth emulating.
    ~Gene

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