November 6, 2022
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. My week-long Yoga Retreat at Prana del Mar, near Cabo San Lucas, concluded yesterday. It was a fabulous week of yoga, mindfulness, introspection and fun. I began each day with a sunrise four mile run along the beach. It was my incredible moving meditation. The retreat schedule started with meditation, yoga and days filled with movement and bliss. It was truly just what the doctor ordered; with relaxation and empowering vibes. The retreat center is beautiful, secluded, comfortable; and complemented with friendly and helpful staff. The food was delicious, healthy and created with love. The beaches were empty and the ocean an array of colorful blues. As the sun set, our days ended with Yin and an amazing dinner. It was an enlightening week with wonderful humans. I want to thank Brittany Bamrick (Bliss Camp Retreats) and Naomi Fox (Yin and Reiki Master). They provided motivation, support and insight. I send special thanks to everyone at Prana del Mar, Wellness and Retreat Center. Eric and his entire staff were phenomenal. Thank you, to all, for a delightful, inspirational and vibrant week of joy.
The retreat was my birthday “getaway” gift. I was confident the time away would provide enlightenment and inspiration. The entire experience turned into far more than I could have imagined. This blessing in disguise, helped center my thoughts and confirm new life goals. Time spent on me is always time well spent. I highly encourage it. We live in crazy and uncertain times. I urge you to take good care of yourself, your family, friends and loved ones. Do your best every day to be a good human; with respect and gratitude for all of God’s creatures. Don’t allow your ego to override your goodness. Too often, especially here in America, it’s easy to take life, and everything we have at our disposal, for granted. Our nation is truly blessed, even when it seems days are difficult. We all struggle from time to time; but what’s most important is how we rise above the sad or bad times. There are many sources for assistance, if you need it. Don’t be afraid to reach out or ask for help. Seeking assistance doesn’t mean you’re weak or inadequate. It just means your human; like all people on this planet. Yoga (and physical exercise in general) has always been a good form of release for me. It’s helped me relieve stress and often provides times of solace to seek guidance from within or Above.
This is your life and journey my friends. I can’t tell you how to live it or what decisions are best. These are choices only you can make. Remember, you are the only person responsible for your decisions. I can’t control what other individuals, think, say or do. It’s not my responsibility. I can only do what I believe to be true, correct and best for me. I do hope and pray you live life with gratitude, integrity and respect. These character traits were instilled in me at a very young age. They have guided me throughout the course of my life and career. Through the ups and downs, good and bad, they have been my corner stones. Honor, loyalty, honesty, duty, commitment, country and God provide me the strength and courage to push through life. I maintain my faith in God and the universe to guide me in my daily journey. I trust the incredible and special people in my life, as I hope they trust me as well. Life is a journey my friends. Don’t attempt to control it, alter it or change it to suit your personal needs or desires. Change is a constant throughout the universe. It occurs without notice and seems to come when it’s needed; not always when we want or expect it. Remain mindful and alert, to recognize the opportunities change brings; whether to help us create new experiences, learning or decisions.
Yoga, and a chance to change, came to me in January 2010. I was attending the FBI National Academy, at Quantico Virginia, for three months. I lived at the facility; residing in one of the dormitories. Monday through Friday I was busy with classes and training. My weekends were free to roam. An FBI agent lead a yoga session early every Saturday morning. I was curious, eager to try something new, so I began attending the sessions. I ultimately attended yoga every weekend. By the end of my stay, I felt the benefits from the practice. My lower back was no longer sore; while my muscles and body were more relaxed and energized. I experienced clarity of my thoughts and mind; all of which provided a vibrant boost. When I returned home, I dove back into work, attending only a few yoga sessions sporadically. Change came again in 2015, after I retired. I met an incredible woman who would transform my life. Yoga became an important fixture for me. My practice deepened as my body, mind and spirit benefited; empowering me further each day. Meditation helped sooth my soul, as much as yoga improved my overall health. It took me a little time to figure out just how much it helped; as my mind and heart weren’t fully open and receptive to the experience. Attending yoga teacher training and 200-hour certification in Bali (early 2018) was an amazing life changing experience. Immersing myself completely into this instruction was truly an inspiring time for me. It unlocked a new path to allow me to open my heart and soul to heal and grow. I know yoga works, because it was an integral component piece of the puzzle that changed my life; physically, mentally and spiritually.
Healthy foods, exercise and nature; coupled with changing my thoughts, perceptions and attitude increased my personal happiness and positivity. The support, guidance and love I received, especially from special individuals, helped me achieve my transformation. The empowerment and push, I required, to get me to counseling (and eventually EMDR therapy), were due to the efforts of one person. I had been floundering and powerless for so many years. I know my resistance frustrated her beyond belief. I’m grateful she didn’t give up, until I saw the light and realized my destiny. Never under estimate the power of love, especially when it comes from the heart. I am happy to be a new and improved me and the man I’ve always been meant to be. Don’t fear life. Relax, breathe and enjoy living this amazing gift of life. Stay grateful, happy and healthy my friends. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
America, we have three important dates this week. Tuesday, November 8th, is election day. Don’t forget to vote! We also have two dates to honor and celebrate this week. The first special date is Thursday, November 10th. We will celebrate the 247th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. I salute the Corps (including family, friends, co-workers, past and present members)! Enjoy a fantastic day! On Friday, November 11th, our nation will celebrate and honor Veterans Day. I send special thanks to my Dad, uncles, cousins, brother in law, nephew, friends, co-workers and all our heroes who have served in the United States Military. Thank you to all of our Veterans. Your dedication, sacrifice, service and loyalty are greatly appreciated. Cheers to the USA!
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The puzzle of life is always changing. Change can lead to amazing opportunities. Together, let’s be healthy and strong; mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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