Originality Overrules - Cross-fit

CROSS-fit #69 Big and Strong

2012-01-17T16:31:00.001+08:00

We all coin the term big and strong, big and strong, big and strong.
To get strong, inside or out, you gotta get big, inside or out.
But what if that just isn't you to begin with?
I've seen many people raise questions about their own physique, stating that...
"Hey, my body just isn't meant to be this way, it isn't meant to lean out and grow".
Or, Crossfit just isn't for me, I don't wanna bulk up.
Well, I don't condemn any one of those statements but I'll just question back.
Which is better? Fitness or how your body looks like?
It's the simple priorities in life.
Yeah we all wanna get big (for guys)
Look like a million dollars when we step into the room.
But when it really boils down to who you really are inside.
I'm sorry to say that I don't think the ripples in your body will do you any good.
Rather, it's the substance beneath that which proves who you really are....
Being fit, being able to do things you know others can't, being able to accomplish a feat you never though possible. Now that's something that'll bring confidence up.
Of yourself, of those around you and of those looking up to you.
Yeah, looks are great, but come on, get with the program, go for being fit.
No one likes a superficial person do they?
So be who you really are....
If you're Big and Strong, you'll naturally show.
Inside and out.
(To me, looking good is just a bi-product of fitness, Just saying...)

Looking back

2011-12-31T12:08:00.000+08:00

There're just moments in life, when you look back.

Sometimes you smile, sometimes you frown.

But ultimately, 2011 is coming to an end.

It's really ending, all the good times, the bad times.

It's all coming to a close and we're all gonna start afresh again in 2012.

Maybe not everything has a restart button to be pushed and tadah, everything is sweet and peachy again...

We may not be able to change the situation we're in but....

Perhaps we can change our perspectives of the year.

Looking back, 2011 was by far, the most dramatic year of my life, ever.

I must say that I've thoroughly lived every single moment of it...

I've grown, I've stumbled, I've learnt, I've changed.

This year, I've found myself, who I am and have lived that way ever since.

Doubt I'll really be recollecting moments... Cause these moments aren't exactly defining of the year.

I guess I wanna pen down, well, the things that I've learnt from these events the past year.

1) It takes a decision.

Your heart shifts, it changes, it gets pulled away from one corner to the other.

But really, what does it stand for?

Yeah, as much as it's an emotion, it's a decision.

To choose what you want to do and not to let your life simply go with the flow.

Guess this was in January and February, the seperation.

Times were good, they were great. The past will always be gleaming with hope.

But there's a better life ahead waiting for both and every one of us.

2) Your heart is rasher than you think

The heart makes dumb decisions which well, fool you into eventually making them.

Choices are at your disposal.

Don't just use your heart, use your head as well.

However, mistakes of great proportions may be made along the way.
I've made some real dumb ones this year, there're many.

However, one, I really wish I could take back. Rui.

However, live and let live, move on head strong and let's see how things can change.

3) Pillar of Friends

When you're down and out, yeah, that's when your few buds really play in.

This year, I never thought that those who came to me were them.

I really never expected the BDPs to run to my rescue after being in the rut for so long.

Sadly, even family didn't help much. But they did...

Thus, I've gotten much closer to them, many of them have had their own trials and we've stood by ever since. I honestly don't think I can find a better bunch.

It's how these boys just love who you really are...

Not just them but many others as well, YX, YL, Abel, Brenda, Audrey, Der and the 1989s.

All of them have made such a long lasting effect on my life.
These friends in 2011 will never be forgotten and I guess I now know the true need for friendships
Thanks for all the suppers, meet ups, jokes, drinks and laughter

4) Temptations and Mistakes will always come.

It isn't the easiest to differentiate the good from the bad when you have nothing at all.

Everything just seems bad.

So yeah, it all happened so quickly, so easily, to simply fall for another.

When it was all pretty much a wrong decision altogether.

Friends have told me, God has told me but a stubborn man is just a stubborn man.

So sometimes, hold on, but sometimes, let go.

PK was pretty much a big flaw of that sort.

However, I eventually found what I want and what I didn't want.

I had to be at peace with myself, that, I realized.

5) Not everyone is gonna take you as you are

Not everyone is going to accept you as you are, even if they say they will.

Judging is one thing altogether but accepting is a totally different story altogether.

A higher level of acceptance I must say.

Some friends may take you as you are, but some just demand more.

I've learnt that there're people of such sort, that you need to put in effort for it.

That, I have mistaken and never thought it would come to such standards.

Not everyone functions and thinks like you. Some may eventually have the false impressions of relationships.

I had hoped to salvage certain relations but really, some people are simply better off without me.

They simply live happier lives without me.

I know YL will for sure.

6) God is still present

There're moments when you think that everything has gone down the drain and you're pretty much done for.

That's when God suddenly turns up and well, picks you up.

Telling you that there's still an impact in your life.

That he hasn't left you and that YOU can do greater things in every situation and moment.

In Loud Camp, I was given opportunities to do things I never thought I would ever again/

Higher made me realize how dependent I am on GOD and how I simply can't let go so easily.

And Audio Mob reminded me of the impact that we can have on society and the World.

With man this is impossible but with GOD, all things are possible.

7) Be who you really are

There're just times when you need a timely reminder of who you are in GOD.
I guess the past 21 years have been hidden, a mystery, a confusing venture whereby I just had so many sides of Lionel that it wasn't even funny to begin with.
I guess it caused me to break down deep inside bit by bit which eventually climaxed this year.
However, it was also a year whereby I started to find who I really am again.
Be that person and be proud of that, no matter what anyone else says.
In whatever you do, really, your Heart was what mattered.
As much as we all do the things which form our World, guess I learnt to live happy deep down inside.
There was one particular turning point too, when no one else but my brother preached on Uncertainty.
We all do live in uncertainty, every other moment, struggling, but we do so in Faith, Hope and Love.
Yeah, I wanna be a person with stronger resolutions.
But ultimately I realized, I'm a person who will do all I can to get what I want.
When decisions are made, I'll make an effort to make it happen. That's just Lionel for you...

8) Your future is still ahead of you

If there's one thing I've learnt about dreams at all. Is that they don't give up on you that easily as well.
All your dreams, visions are what remains till they're fulfilled.
So they'll remain as that till you do something.
Good news? They'll ALWAYS remain there!
Crossfit did for me despite the worst few moments in the start of the year.
I eventually got certified and was really happy I could finally do something with my talents.
Yeah I've got a long way to go. And I know it, but who cares! It's the journey that counts.
Thank God for not letting such dreams and passions slip away.
There's always always hope for a better future no matter what.

9) Life isn't just about the race
We were all born with a leash around our necks.
Be it in small disciplinary issues to major educational decisions.
We're all just governed by how our society deems us to behave like.
We're all thrown not into something that we wanna do but in my brothers words, our choices are really not our own. So something I learnt this year was to well...
Break away.
To do things from a different perspective cause you just like it. Cause you value your friends.
You're not going through that oh so sad routine but making the most out of your life.
This year, I've met some amazing guys, Rishabh, Arjun and all the other ISE guys have given me that insight

So come on! Live life already.
Stop looking back and forth for the greater good! But take some time to really appreciate what you've got.
In your hands, in this moment of yours. Take just a few of them.
To smile, to be happy and to embrace what you have. Treasure them? Then don't let business take that away. Don't let your options distract you from the priorities.

10) Family matters
It probably means much more now than any other time in the year cause it's the Christmas season.
Family really does mean something to you doesn't it?
I realized that when well, I kinda lost so much. Guess I only had my family left.
Yeah, at times they didn't understand, didn't accept and didn't agree with everything I did.
But eventually, I suppose it isn't just about whether they do or not, but it's that they're family.
Whatever it is, they're always around.
Especially this year when well, we lost Grandpa, never knew he meant that much for all of us.
Never knew how much my family meant to me.
Gong Gong, you're missed dearly by all of us. I just wish you could still be around to see me do great things.
But the legacy you've left behind is amazing. I know you're there looking down...
I guess I somehow how got some inspiration from other families and realized that the family has to be happy.
Happy with what they have, who they are, not so much of all the achievements and possessions.
But to just be happy with each other.

Also, I learnt that as a Family, I found where I belong again.
As part of my cell group. As part of E406.
You've made every single moment even better this year :)
With all the fun, laughter, tears, sweat and every other thing you can think of!
I really love you E406! You've made me really really a better person. I chose this family :)
Sounds and noise eventually make music, yeah, you guys make the music in mine.

11) The trick is to never ever give up

May sound cheesy but you get what you fight for.
Not everything is served to us warm and hot. Some served cold.
But it's what you make out of it which counts.
I've learnt, this year, to never give up, never relent.
I could've thrown in the towel so many times this year. In my studies, in Crossfit, in relationships.
Most of them I didn't.
Well, that's how I got Kris. Oh yeah.
Be a persistent, stubborn, optimistic Ox as I would call it.
2011 was one filled with trials, challenges and new experiences.
But really, don't forget what makes you, YOU.
This is me, I never give up and I learnt that about myself this year.
Well, to 2012! Come what may! Bring it!

12) You can always learn to Love again
We were all made/meant to be happy. To smile and enjoy life as it is.
However, sometimes when life shuts you down a little, you gotta learn to start the engine again :)
I never knew that it was possible, to actually change myself for the better.
To rid myself of playing and all these bad habits.
But man, it took some effort but I guess it worked. To love and be loved again.
I never knew that really, that 20 seconds of courage, that embarrassing bravery would carry me this far.
Call it what you want, but I suppose I learnt that to love, you gotta plunge deep.
Don't think, Just Do.
To pour everything you are, everything you have into one simple happy person.
From the many date nights, to the uncertain moments between us, to actually getting together and being happy, from ice cream to Krisfit, to the lowest of moments and to the best of them.
Well, it wasn't just simply that, she helped me grow, she changed me. Made me know who I really am.
She brought the better side of Lionel of out me. She gave me the courage to step up and out.
She made me look at the World in a different light, my family and friends with passion.
She made me realize the real meaning of appreciation and Love.
She made me really happy and all true to myself.
I hung that title for her and will never look back. Playa no more.
But really, thank God for Kris. :)
2011 was a rocky one but it turned out well. Primarily cause of this!
"I'll always run back to embrace you, swing you around and make you smile!'

So the year is over, here's to 2011! It was one helluva year!
It's been filled with so many different forms of emotions, so many different phases.
It was just last year, exactly one year ago, whereby I looked back at 2010 and yeah, it was a year of accomplishments but really, 2011 was one of change, of decision of being truly happy.
If I could change anything in 2011? Nah, I wouldn't, not one thing at all.
I'm contented with the way things are now, I don't wanna ever change any of it.
On this last day of 2011, I can only appreciate all that has happened.
But I believe that in 2012, we will all reach greater heights, cause of everything that has been around me!

So to the 2012 future me.
You'll be happier with your friends, with your family.
You'll achieve more! With the passions that you have. Do what you love!
Don't give up on what you set out to do!
Live life with a full heart, being happy with everything that you're doing!
Appreciate the smaller things around you. Go ahead and do it!
Choose Love! Choose Love! Choose LOVE!
Hopefully this time next year, you'll look back at this post and you'll know you lived a great one in 2012!

"Why would it be a great 2012? Well why not?"
Lets do 2012 together...

Christmas

2011-12-24T11:31:00.001+08:00

I suppose it means different things to different people.

I'm sure that it sparkles in our hearts one way or another.

Be it in gifts, be it in family, be it in Church.

Really, isn't this a great occasion?

But what does Christmas mean to you?

No, it isn't just another time for a good hangover.

In fact, it struck me only just.

Man, Christmas is here, it kinda marks the end of the year and the start of magical times!

Just my 2 cents.

Christmas is simple, it's nostalgic but it isn't really bout the music, food, songs or even friends to church.

Maybe, probably, it's about having those great ones beside you.

About the renewed hope that Baby Jesus was born this day.

That cause of him, we can always be happy.

It's probably not just about me, about the revenue to be earned but the love to be shared.

Not so much of the food but the company which comes with it.

Christmas is a time for you and for me, to be together as Jesus was born this day.

To celebrate life and all it's trials and victories.

Somewhat to be happy and enjoy every moment in this period.

Merry Christmas everyone!

CROSS-fit #69 Vanish

2011-11-28T13:22:00.001+08:00

It so begins readily, steadily and it just slips your mind, your schedule, your life altogether.
Perhaps it wasn't too much of a bright idea to start something to think that it'll run by itself.
It's just me, likely just me.
I can't keep something progressive for long, I can't commit. I'm just not that person.
However, this is me, making an effort....

Cause The one without commitment has to make way for a larger change in life.
We all talk about intensity but really, what matters is the long run.
What is your work capacity across ALL modals and domains?
Is it gonna be a continuous output? Or will it die down after a couple of minutes.
Man, you gotta last in this life. You Have to last...

So what does it take to revive a dying or dead passion?
Something so cold in your life after not touching, feeling or experiencing it for days over.
Honestly, I have no idea...
Cause on certain occasions I have, certain occasions I've evidently failed.
But as one whom is relatively easily influenced by the sights and sounds of a vibrant society.
I guess it'll really be who I'm with, what I see and what I hear.
It all surrounds me , embraces my life and makes me see things in a different light.

Recently, just by a few words, I was inspired to try ultimate frisbee yet again.
It'll be a good tryout to see how crossfit has helped me in the game.
I'm sure....
it was really cause Kris pointed out that it could be fun and great.
Thinking about it, I really did return to the game for her...
Now I definitely want 'in' for different reasons...
However, I can see how such small words, sights, impressions shape my life.

Good? points of views are challenged and balance is always a necessity.
For now... I need to envisage to become a firm man. Cause that's what all man are made to be.
Making decisions cause YOU made them.
Not be one who says that our decisions are shaped by reality itself.
I'd rather shape my reality than let it work me.

CROSS-fit #68 Live for Today

2011-10-18T09:17:00.001+08:00

We all lead a wayward life at some point in time.

I for one have done so, quite a number of times I guess.

Everyone has, be it big, or small...

We've all had our bad, rotten past and somehow, we've moved on.

We're a new creation, no longer subject to the things of the old you.

However, it comes back once in a while, to haunt you.

It's a fact, whatever happened, has happened.

It's the past, you can't change that whatever happens.

Probably nothing to be proud of but gosh you gotta kick it aside!

Don't live for that.

Live for today. Cause if not, you're gonna miss it altogether.

You don't base your Olympic lifts on the PRs of years back.

You base them on your performance now, today.

So don't give excuses and said that you've fallen and had it rough before, thus resulting in the broken you now.

That's the worst ever.

Cause what matters is that you come back and live, Today.

CROSS-fit #67 The new level

2011-10-08T00:56:00.001+08:00

We want to be the best of it all. We want to champ the rest.
It's likely the human instinct in every single one of us.
In our blood, it's gushing to beat the other fella in the WOD.
I mean, we all want to do so, who wants to lose right?

You may be good at something but they always say that good is the enemy of best.
So be the best at what you do.
To do that? It's a whole new level of 'Suck'.
Yeah, you're already good at what you do, you've beaten those around you...
So what?

Doing a normal WOD, you're able to take on every one else.
Doing a simple job, you're likely to be better than the rest, but what's stopping you from going on to a whole new level altogether?
Yeah, you do have to bear that new level of 'suck'.
You've got to put on that weighted vest and gas mask to do that WOD.
Now that's when the real challenge begins.
Doesn't matter if you've moved from top dog to lousy scum.
It's a whole new level.
Remember, it's always you against yourself...

CROSS-fit #66 The word

2011-10-07T00:12:00.001+08:00

To get you through, to get you by,

It's quite common, the strongest, the toughest of people all have it.

Even the most successful of men boast about these.

Their words in their lives.

The words they keep close to their heart which they live by.

Many of these words have swarmed the net in the form of quotes and catch phrases.

It has become statuses, it has become tag lines.

However, sometimes, these words become another persons lifeline.

There quotes become something another invests in to aspire and live strong.

Crossfitters all have their own phrases to push themselves.

"Breath and Fire".

"Live strong".

"Lift heavy or go home"

"Your workout is my warm up"

We base our workouts and our regimes on alot of science and a whole lot of data.

But sometimes, its these phrases which keep the WODs fresh, keep crossfit, really Crossfit.

So what are the quotes, words, tag lines in your life?

What're the words you live by? Are they from one whom truly matters?

Or are they as unreliable and as untested as the wind?

Live by the solid rock.

"I am more than a conqueror, through Christ who loves me."

CROSS-fit #65 Second Chances

2011-10-03T23:43:00.000+08:00

It's likely that we all dream about it.

The better life that we think exists beyond those walls of ours.

And how man, great things could have happened if you did this or did that.

You'll probably have one or two lifts in the day whereby you go...

"shucks, I should've done this better..." or,

"Darn it, would've been great if I really gave it my all".

But maybe, just maybe, things ain't so bad. Cause you're given that second chance aren't you?

You're still here, still standing, still breathing.

You can still try.

And try again, you should.

Make that second, third, fourth, fifth, hundredth attempt.

Cause the fact remains is that you're still here and you're given that chance to try again.

if you could, why not give it a shot?

Take a chance to be happy again, to be joyful again.

A risk it is, but take one! To be satisfied in your spirit.

Maybe it's lost but try again... To love God with your Heart, Soul and Mind.

I was given that second chance just yesterday.

To love and be loved.

Who cares about the failures, at least now I'm given that second chance.

And I swear I'll make it better.

CROSS-fit #64 Burdens

2011-09-30T23:10:00.002+08:00

Walking past those doors...
Everyone has them, hanging loose on themselves.
Their mind, body and spirit is simply weighed down by it.
And no, they don't need you to add to it.
Burdens...

Maybe your exam didn't go too well.
Maybe your kid just wasn't the best behaved in school.
Or maybe sh*t just happened in the office and you got messed for it...
Whatever it is, we all walk through those doors with some sort of care in our heads.
Everyone does....

So really, we're all here for the same reason aren't we?
To release our mind, get a hold of our lives.
To recreate ourselves in a strange sense by making our bodies feel...
Don't come in thinking that you deserve respect.
No, in fact, you don't. Cause everyone else has their own rights.
Come in and enjoy the community.
You're always welcome to be a part of this recreation.
But if you're going to throw your weight around demanding stuff, then sorry, not the place for you.

Though rough and tough...
Really, crossfitters are more in touch with themselves compared to most people I know.
They know their weaknesses like the back of their palm.
They know their strengths by the pain that exploits it.
They learn about themselves and the burdens that they face when they actually do something impossible.
So come with the burdens, and be real about it...
Cause everyone in the box is...

The season where you question..

2011-09-27T16:15:00.003+08:00

Yupp, it happens once every semester. Yes it does...

The big question, the most important one to be exact.

WHY ARE YOU STUDYING!?

Why are we buried underneath our books and not pursuing our dreams? Whatever that may be...

Coming soon is the "Audio Mob", the event to spark the dreams and goals of every individual aspiring for anything great out there.

However, come to think of it, how many of us are actually living that out?

This time, the onset of such questions came about after reading this article and truly, reflecting upon it....

http://kentridgecommon.com/?p=13441

What is it?

Either way, it's sad cause you can't stop now...

You can't just let it all go right? Sunk cost and all makes sense but you just won't forgo everything to live life.

So really, let's think again, at this mid point.

What is it you are doing in life?

And is it really what you want to do? Is this something true to your cause?

One of my fellow classmates whom I'd like to think I've gotten alot closer to this semester recently told me.

"I've left the world of academics during the recess week, didn't do much mugging.

Haven't been going to many lectures, I'm surely falling behind in standards.

Probably going to drop my double degree program.

Haven't been visiting the ISE lab too often as well, instead, have been outside.

Going about my own business and trying to change the World.

I've been helping orphans in India.

Why? Cause I want to...

There's no undermining reason, I just want to... "

I won't even begin to explain and encourage you to comprehend what he really said.

We all want to live for our dreams, planning projects, planning events for the World.

Sorry but MAN! We're the salt and light of the World but everything we do...

AND I MEAN EVERYTHING...

Has so underlying factor driving us.

Take a moment, pause and think for a second... Are you really doing this for yourself? Or for?

If so, you really need to re-evaluate yourself.

People aren't just numbers, souls aren't just figures, grades are...

Grades are just alphabets.

I'm not measured by them, so why live for them?

CROSS-fit #63

2011-09-23T22:40:00.001+08:00

I'm sure it's happened to you on one or two occasions.
Times where you sit down, get your mind to it and say that yeah, I wanna change.
Sometimes you find motivations from all sources to do so.
To motivate whatever decision you're making.
You try to get resolve from all corners of society. From your friends, from the net, from books.
I've had such resolves, many of them in fact.

I was inspired by what Mikko Salo said, to never lie on your back after a Workout.
It represents surrender, defeat, cause that's what animals do when they give up.
However, thinking about it now, have I laid on my back after the WOD?
Many many times, my body just collapses and I gasp for air.
My mind just wasn't strong enough to obey such a decision.
As simple as it sounds, it's real, it's true. Even in the simplest of points.
Do we say things just for the sake of saying them? Or do we mean them at all?
Would we wanna put effort to seeing that choice through?

When you say you wanna do it. DO IT.
You may flail once or twice, stumble here and there.
But really, you don't need external motivations.
You just need a real, convicted, decision to change.
For yourself, for God, for others?
It doesn't matter, what matters is that you actually decide to do so.
I've made a decision and I'm gonna stick to it at all cost.
It rips me deep down inside sometimes...
But hey, it's supposed to, no hard choice is ever easy. It's a mere contradiction.
So come on, get your mind in. Get your head in and stick to it.
I did, it may suck initially, but embrace the suck, better things are yet to come!

CROSS-fit #62 The Life

2011-09-21T18:05:00.008+08:00

What's necessary for you to live a good life?

What's really required to be successful, fulfilled and basically Happy?

What constitutes the meaning of love, joy, Faith, excitement and adventure?

The definitions are many, the dictionary isn't the most reliable resource of such words.

I guess it doesn't take a rocket scientist to tell you that these are felt, these are motivated not by mere words or knowledge of right and wrong.

They're motivated from the Heart.

I suppose that it isn't the easiest and prettiest way to put it but...

We all are entitled to feel the way we do.

The worst thing to do is to take away that right to feel and give it away to someone else.

You're allowed to feel sad, happy. You're allowed to fall in love and out of it.

What matter is what you do with them. Even still....

Don't let another, don't let your past dictate how you feel and what you'll do.

God gave you your free will, don't give it to someone else. Or worst still, don't take it from another.

We all are inter connected with our friends, family, our boxes, our churches, but don't let it control you.

Have control with regards to how you feel, you act.

Just like the bar controlling you during the workout, don't let in get a hold of you.

Gosh, get control of it!

Hold it tight with upright active shoulders. Not with a slumping back.....

So get a hold of how you wanna be in life.

Feel how you wanna feel and don't run away from it Damnit!

Don't deny something just cause you think it shouldn't be the case...

We're all allowed to make mistakes. Even if they're dumb ones out of the blue.

Even Peter tried to walk on water, which was honestly dumb to a certain extent.

But WHAO he actually did something others said was dumb....

Call me Dumb and I'll prove you wrong...

So live your life, try and fail and try again!

Just like Pastor Kong said just last night....

"Lets be people, whom, if fail, at least fail daring greatly." - T Roosevelt

So stick your head out there and let it all out...

CROSS-fit #61 The small, big difference

2011-09-16T00:16:00.001+08:00

I suppose it's in the era that we live in, the whole Globalization idea.
Where we focus so much on the big, we focus so much on well, looking to the future.
Of course that's a given. We all do need these kind of aspiration to drive ourselves and society in general.
We love the fact that Crossfit is dynamic, ever changing, to suit the needs of every individual.
It makes it even more productive and causes us to be more adaptable to change.
We do the strangest and weirdest of movements which aren't the easiest to accomplish.
However, are we getting too big such that we overlook the simple stuff, the basic stuff?
That we, as strong individuals ought to help another whom is struggling in life.

It's likely the affluence in society that has caused us to stray from 'Compassion'.
The genuine kind which has no strings attached to it.
The kind which dreams of things to simply brighten up anothers day.
Well, if there's one thing which we can do, it's this...

Operation Broken Wing. To be able to help and give kids who have nothing left, nothing at all.

We give them a second chance in life.

Really, I have to admit that youths in our generation want to help create change in the strangest most dynamic of ways, but sometimes, you don't need that.

You just need a sincere heart, willing body and a great idea.

When have we become so fixated on satisfying our own needs.

It's said in the word that, "You have been faithful over a few things, I will put you in charge of many things".

All that we have, are really, the simple small easy things in our hands.

We don't have much, really.

But what you do with it is what counts, whether you stand aside, moisturize them, tantalize them nice polish or other cosmetics, or would you really get it down and dirty, scarred and bruised helping and brightening the days of others?

Here's how, realistically, the smallest most basic items, traits, talents can really make a big, huge, impactful difference.

CROSS-fit #60 9/11

2011-09-12T15:25:00.001+08:00

On this day 10 years ago, the World and all it's beliefs were shaken.
Fear was rampant, and the word 'Terror' became real to everyone amongst us.
However, take a moment and let's think about it.
We look back and see destruction, we look back and see sadness and loss and what have you.
It's been 10 long years, 10 years since that fateful day.
And really, do we really feel the hurt anymore? Or is it just another figment of our imagination?
We've moved on, we've lived better lives, we've grown, we've found better days.
After a long decade of it, the States have been resilient and true enough, they've hung on through the heat.

Even for everyone out there, those whom have lost, hurt, been hurt, scarred for life.
There's simply no use living in the past.
Everyone has looked ahead, year after year, it truly has been a pain.
But contrary to popular belief, our wounds do heal.

Walking through those open doors of the box.
Leave everything behind, leave your past achievements, leave your failures, leave your hurts.
It won't matter inside, nobody is going to dig it up and rub it in.
It doesn't matter cause when Coach shout out "3,2,1, GO!" Everything before that doesn't matter.
The real significance is now.
Look at yourself, NOW. Not who you were before, or who you were when 9/11 actually happened.
Be willing and daring to look at yourself and measure yourself now.

I've hurt people before, I've been hurt before.
Made some real dumb mistakes in life, some good, some bad. All necessary.
I've succeeded in big dreams before, champed many, trophies weren't foreign.
I was always attuned to success and glamour but never really learnt my lesson.
However, people do change don't they? They do change for the better.
Cause that's the only way to go.
So would you forget what's happened before and live with the now?
Thousands, millions have.

CROSS-fit #59 What is it?

2011-09-11T01:04:00.001+08:00

Being thrown into a new environment, being treated with something so foreign.
Many hate it, they just wanna remain in their comfort zone.
Where it's in their turf, their side of the fence, their hood and nobody messes with them.
However, at times, we move out, we go explore, we challenge.
Honestly speaking, I don't favor it at all, no one bit.
But I guess it's something we all have to go through.
Going to check out another box, working out over there and learning something new each time.
I'm surprised by the experience over at a totally different box.
The community, the culture and even the spirit of Crossfit differs from place to place.

But really, when it all boils down, aren't we ALL crossfitters?

Crossfit Fire City

Does it really matter which box is written on our backs?
Whom we represent all the time?
Yeah, so what gives??
We belong to another denomination, another community altogether.
But aren't we all still one body?

So why the need to dominate and pillage??
There's none at all, NONE.
One of the key factors in crossfit is that the "fun is in the community".
Let's keep it that way, not just in the box but also in our lives.
Don't let your ego get in the way.
Don't let so called 'pride' for your own territory come between you and another.
If we do, we're no less than childish gangsters out to kill each other just cause we're 5 blocks away.
So give them a chance, whoever that may be.
Take that risk and allow them in...

CROSS-fit #58 Softer Side

2011-09-06T11:10:00.001+08:00

Crashing, Loud, Extravagant, Proud, Unashamed, King-Of-The-World.
That pretty much describes how Crossfitters behave.
Don't really care much about what others or the World think.
Join us or well, stand by the sidelines and keep quiet.
We walk with our heads lifted high, chest propped up (Naturally) and with a shirt which says...
"Alpha Male" Or "Fit like F***" printed in bold behind, don't think many wanna mess with us.

We all get caught up with the crossfit mentality and it's all good.
It produces some great community, comrade spirit and expels much negativity
But this is just in fitness, maybe it's not just in crossfit but in everywhere else.
Where you're just king of it all, you're great...
You're the leader of everyone else and you could easily walk over people.
Insist that you command their respect.
Nobody eats before you, you expect people to wait when it gets late.
You get your way, period.
The King Pin.

Being so sometimes is great, but don't forget... That softer side you need to have.
The softer side which engages those outside the community.
Open arms which welcome feedback and criticisms (Of course if it's Bullshit, you're getting it).
That part of you which makes you go down to their level, to encourage them bring them up to yours.
Coach K once said that any great athlete has 2 things, Discipline and Humility.
Thing is, nobody says you can't be soft without having some spunk in it.
Have that, and you'll naturally attract people, a magnet.
So get off that high podium, get down and get dirty.

CROSS-fit #57 They are around

2011-09-04T00:36:00.001+08:00

In the beginning, God created Adam, he then created Eve cause he knew Adam needed her...
From the start, it's simple...
We need to have people around. We just do...
Some people may aggravate you, irritate the hell outta you, encourage you, lift you up...
Or some just don't do anything at all, but their presence makes a differnece.

They're essential, they are all around us but at certain times, we just need to appreciate them.
In the middle of a workout and you just can't move anymore.
You just keep failing that Muscle Up again and again. Your muscles are just too fatigued.
Your friends can keep shouting at you, giving you cues but yeah, you just can't do on anymore.
You're really at your utter limits and sadly, there's just nothing you can do about it.
Sucks doesn't it? When you just can't do anything, feel so helpless and just kneel to pray.

I guess maybe it's just me? But I guess it's to everyone as well.
That yeah, you need that company around...
To tell you that, it's okay.
To assure you that at the end of it all, it's okay, I'll still love you, I'll still give you a hug.
As superficial as it sounds, these little deeds, those hugs and words, do make a World of a difference.
Your difference matters to me.
So keep having those people around.
Or be those people to others.
Even to those you never felt like you needed to.

It probably doesn't do anything to your physical well being.
Whatever they say will probably not help in your situation in any ridiculous way.
But it heals your heart, it heals your soul.
And it gets you to smile again.

CROSS-fit #56 8 minutes

2011-09-01T17:04:00.000+08:00

They say that life lessons are best learnt over time..
It takes a while for a habit, a lifestyle to sink into a persons mentality and personality.
However, sometimes it doesn't take much.
It doesn't take too long to be smacked right in the face and be told that you need to change!

Sometimes it just takes an alternating Tabata workout.
It just takes 8 simple minutes of work, pain, torture, prayer, meditation, focus.
8 minutes is all it takes sometimes to know who you are.
To know what you're good at, know what you're terrible at.
Better yet, it just takes 8 minutes to explain to yourself, what you need to do from now on.

It is true, in that extreme moments of rush and circumstance.
You learn more about yourself than ever before.
In trials, in life, you will learn about it in these times.
Not when everything is going smoothly and there's no wave whatsoever.
There's always a bright side to things.
There always is, so don't stop hoping and always take that 8 minutes in good stride.
Whatever those 8 minutes may be, it may even be 8 months for that matter...
But really, let it be the best 8 minutes and not the worst.
You determine after all, you determine whether it's good or bad.
All a perception...

CROSS-fit #55 Legacy

2011-08-28T01:00:00.001+08:00

August 25th 2011, Thursday. 5:45 pm.
My grandfather, Joseph Lim, moved on to a better place.
It all happened in my hands, literally. A breaking moment isn't enough to describe it.
All I know is that he is in safer hands, happier, smiling down on us.
It all happened so fast, from 3 weeks ago till now.
I look back and think if there is one thing I did learn from all these...
One which is fitting to honor his life on this blog but... I just couldn't find any at all.
Even still, there is one regret, one regret I will always have...
That I wasn't able to hear of his stories, his life. That I wasn't able to know him more, learn his life lessons.
I'm thankful that a few weeks ago, I was inspired by the moment to actually visit him while he was well.
He smiled and was happy. Little did I know that the immediate next week, he would be admitted.

I wish, yes I wish, that I could have done the past differently.
However, in moments leading up to it. I realized that I did know him.
I knew my grandfather better than anyone else, and that he was going to be at peace.
It was simple, he had left a legacy, a legacy so strong that no one could deny who he was.
It's said that how a tree is like is determined by the fruits they bear.

Perhaps it's like life, we all want to strive to have quick success.
We want so much volume, we want the most out of everything and squeeze it all out.
In any workout we do, we squeeze it all out every single time and we should!
But just sometimes, take time to think about it...
Is this all for nothing? Is me busting Fran out and being the best at it going to mean anything at all?
Then what is?

My grandfather really did outdo himself even till the end.
I may not have learnt much of his characteristics in person, but he really does live through us all.

I know he was one heck of a fighter, cause he didn't give up his battle, he survived 50 years of smoking and gave it up for himself and the family, he fought till the very end.
I know he was a lover, for the last person he saw, the last person he smiled to before he passed on was his wife, my grandma.
I know he was a very hardworking person, cause my mum works harder than anyone else I ever knew.
I know that in his own ways, he loved God tremendously, cause my brother loves God with all his heart.
I know that he was a persistent man, that despite circumstances, he wouldn't flinch an inch, as seen by how Yvonne is like.
I know that gramps was a gentleman, cause he never let any one of his daughters feel left out. Cause his only son was so much of a gentleman as well.
I know that Gong gong was a caring father and grandfather cause his children never went hungry and were always satisfied at every stage of their lives.
I know that his friends will remember him as a capable man, for he worked his way up to success, bringing my whole family up along with him.
I know that he loved his family and every single one of his children. He cared for them and look who they are now, successful, strong man and woman.
I know that he loves to smile, he loves to be happy, cause my whole family loves laughing, loves being together.
I know that my grandfather was a strong man, not physically, but in his heart. Cause I have learnt that from him.
Lastly, I know that my grandpa was a good man, he was a upright, he was proud and he is happy, Right Now.

He's left behind some great legacies.
They may not be great in number, but I'm sure they've all lived in us.
Thinking about it, he may not have taught me much directly...
But looking back, maybe he did, he did move mountains to get me to where I am today.
I won't forget his habits, his gestures, though it wasn't a whole lot of time spent, I will miss them.
I thank God for his life and I thank God for the Wonders that he has left on the Earth.
They may be little, but they're Wonders nonetheless.
Thanks Gong, and your legacy will live on, in me and in all that I encounter, you had a part to play.

So what's going to be your legacy you leave behind? Let it last, let it be memorable.

In the middle, My grandfather, Joseph Lim.

CROSS-fit #54 Stubborness

2011-08-24T23:07:00.000+08:00

If there's one thing I've learnt in the past 2 months or rather enforced.
Is to be one persistent, stubborn, optimistic dumbass.
Yeah, you just need to be sucked in and be totally confident that you're going to succeed.
Or in other cases, that things will turn out for the better.
Recently, there has been successes here and there...

But today I'm really tasked to test this to the fullest of my ability.
But it's true ain't it?
The violent take it by force, the persistent just don't give up.
As cliche as it sounds...
Don't stop Believing.
Be stubborn and just keep keep trying.

When you just can't get the lift, my goodness don't stop trying.
Invest time, effort, your damn life into it.
If this is what you want, then do everything for it.
Love's a risk and take that risk.
It's true, the more you risk, the harder you fall. But c'mon!!!
That's life isn't it. Disappointments come and go but...
Hope never dies.

Right now, I pray that all will be well.
For friends.
For family.
For the one man I know who's fighting with all he's got to be strong and hanging on.
And I'm gonna believe in him.

CROSS-fit #53 When the World says no

2011-08-24T22:39:00.000+08:00

When the World says no....
Yeah, sometimes it denies you of the mere joys in life.
Them second chances which you always wanted.

Life is hard... More so, frail.

When you're not given that rep, when you're given 'no count'.
Yeah, the WOD says no.
I guess we all have that feeling all the time.
"Heck, I just did something nobody could've done! I just did the impossible,
now you tell me that it wasn't legit?"
So right here, you could tell yourself, I don't think I can do that again...
I can't do impossible twice, can I?
Well, impossible is no longer impossible cause you just debunked it's supporting facts.

Gosh, when you don't get that job or have to prove yourself again and again all the time.
Don't whine and feel sorry for yourself.
The last thing you need is self pity.
Shake it off, and let's go.
Again and again, even if the 'nos' keep coming.
One day, it'll be a yes.

Drag till the 5th minute to see...
The story of how the World said no, but he replied with his own answer.

CROSS-fit #52 Patience

2011-08-21T12:49:00.003+08:00

Many people love Crossfit cause it's said to be fast.
A quick recipe for better fitness, body and life.
Kind of like the quick fix that we all look for. Instant results etc.
But good things are always worth the wait.
Don't walk in thinking that in a few moments, I'll be someone amazing.
That it's going to be an easy one hour and I'm done.
Don't rush crossfit, don't rush through life.

Cause the journey to get there is just as important as the destination.
Enjoy the moment, enjoy the process.
Dare to love, dare to make mistakes and enjoy it.
Be patient about it.

Patience isn't just about waiting, it's about the attitude you have while waiting.

So have some of that while lifitng, while pushing, while slogging it out in life.
Have some of that when making tough decisions which will hurt you.
Grab some patience when another one bites the dust, cause you'll come up again.
Be willing to wait for it. Even if it means living in uncertainty.
Don't get so caught up in life, you forget to enjoy it. Live it out!!

CROSS-fit #51 Concise Articulation

2011-08-17T09:29:00.002+08:00

Do you know what you want in life?

Really...

Do you?

Waking up every morning, what do you look forward to?

Entering any workout at all, what is it that you wanna get out of it?

Do you really want that new PR on the lift?
Really want that badass time in completing the 'impossible' WOD?
Or rather, do you want that business deal?
Maybe it's that A+ which awaits you on results day.
Then again, it may just be that boy or girl and that magical relationship you hope for.
Or to simply just be closer to GOD every step of the way.

What do you want?

Get it in your head, it's all or nothing in this World.

Sadly, there's always going to be someone much better than you in, 'life'.

So know what you want, and get desperate for it.
Do anything for it.

Risk getting hurt. The pain, humiliation, time, despair, disappointment.

Risk it all if you really really do want it.

Then maybe, just maybe, you'll get it, and when you do....

You'll know it...

It's not some figurative, imaginative random thought flying by.

it's something you can concisely articulate.

I want this _____ .

It makes the success a whole lot more pleasurable.
It makes the journey there way more bearable, even joyful at times.
And say it out when you do, be proud of what you want, cause sooner or later,
YOU are gonna get it...

It's all out

2011-08-15T23:57:00.000+08:00

Many have questioned, asked, in the past months.
Who am I...
Sometimes I ask that myself.
Who is the real, real me?
In a sense, I sound like a typical confused, schizo fella.
But really, we all have that moments don't we.
We become someone totally different when we're in front of someone else.
We act and behave in the strangest of manner which makes no sense whatsoever.
However, we all seem to live fine with it, every single time...

Well, since the start of the year, I've made a choice. To merge every part of me together.
That there's no facade, take it or leave it.
Regardless of what others say or think, this is the real me now...
One whom is oblivious to so many problems and troubles around him but just seeks happiness.
One who lives life freely, without boundaries.
One who chases his dreams, visions without any fear.

True enough, those whom have withered away, yeah, they probably couldn't accept it.
Those who stayed, are really those who carry me.
I've never felt more like myself ever.
More 'alive' in a sense.
It was really cause of YOU.
The one seemingly adorable, barfing, unglam maccheeks.
One I can never thank enough.

However, I wouldn't want it to end here. No no...
Change is the only constant.
So yeah, time for me to effect change on others.
Time for me to make a difference in Your life.

CROSS-fit #50 The Push

2011-08-14T18:10:00.000+08:00

In everyday life, we push, we pull, we lift, we run, we move.
However, what does it really mean when someone comes down to you and says...
"Push it"

Well, the dictionary defines a push as,
"to effect or accomplish by thrusting obstacles aside"
So essentially, you're doing work. You're pushing something.
Yes, whatever you're doing.
In that tiny little head of yours which is not really functioning well in the midst of a 20 minute workout.
You tell yourself to "push yourself"
It really means pushing your mental boundaries, not your physical ones.

Cause you've always been pushing your physical body from the start of it all.
What really wears out fast is up there, that's where the real obstacle is building up.
Your mind registers pain, fatigue and yes, you have to push that thought aside.
That's how you Push The Limits.
It's called a push cause you actually have to make some effort.

It's called a push cause it's not meant to be easy.

In work, when it gets tough, push it further, push it harder.
Not in your physical sense, but in your head, give more each time.
Before you know it, you're the head and not the tail...

CROSS-fit #49 Far off

2011-08-12T01:02:00.000+08:00

Summer has finally come to an end.
For many, it means the end of the first half.
Yes, we've done it guys!
I guess for some, the first half wasn't the best, for others, it was close to perfect with opportunities everywhere.

Whatever it is, just like every Workout in crossfit.
Everyone blasts through the first 1-2 minutes and forget that there's the 8 minutes of AMRAP left.
They give it all for their first 2 rounds in a 4 round WOD and realize that damn, they're still behind.
But really...

There's so much more fight left.

So wherever you're at, right now.
Don't just look back and see how badly we've done or how well we've done for that matter.
Take heart, cause it ain't over till we hear somewhere shout that 'TIME' word.
We've come so far off.
Don't give up now.
But instead, go harder, stronger.
In your dreams, career, vision, in life. Do that extra and it's always one starfish at a time, ain't it?

CROSS-fit #48 Heart-Strong

2011-08-07T03:47:00.000+08:00

After 48 posts, I think I have the liberty to take one or two to get a little personal.

So this is it, I am finally 22.

Guess like every other important day, I spend most of my time well...

Looking back. At how the year has been and how life has changed...

Here goes.

Being 21, entering adulthood, wasn't as sweet as I had expected.

Wasn't easy in fact, I guess this year has been well, the toughest and most life changing year yet.

I've been through so many changes, trials, tests, victories, defeats...

I've honestly made some dumb mistakes, some real dumb ones.

Some of them were pretty good mistakes as well.

However, all of them, I'm thankful for.

Life kind of hit me this year, yeah it really did, in full force.

Probably didn't take it so well mid way through being 21.

But I guess things really got better...

I'm glad, that things turned out the way they are, though some are not peach perfect but...

I'm still glad that they are as such. And it's really a new phase this time.

New mind.

New body.

New heart.

New smile.

New Friendships.

New Lifestyles.

New Relationships.

New breakthroughs.

New problems.

New heartaches.

New happiness.

New Life.

New Heroes.

New Dreams.

However, if there's something I have learnt...

It's about well, being true to yourself.

Not to have any illusions, not to deny who you are.

To be able to motivate, to talk to yourself and to make them choices in life.

Cause sometimes, you may have a multitude by your side, cheering you on but sometimes...

It's just you and that bar, you and that life, you and God hustling it out.

So hold on and keep fighting. Take Courage, take Heart.

Another thing is that well, all around me...

There're amazing people.

People who lift, not put down.

Those who genuinely cared when frankly... I didn't at all.

Those who insisted on being there, on listening and caring even though I was a pain.

Those who know who I really am but accepts me for who I am.

Those who have made me smile and changed me so much, for the better.

Those who pressed in when I had no heart to do so.

People who believed in me.

And those who gave me Heart.

If there're just 2 things, this is it.

Ain't too perplexed ain't it? It's easy, simple but sometimes tough to realize.

So take it from me.

Sit down, search deep down inside, find that few friends, find that solemn place where it's you and God.

And fight it all out together and be extraordinary.

That's how you be HEART-STRONG

CROSS-fit #47 In it for?

2011-08-02T12:22:00.001+08:00

Last weekend concluded the grueling test to find the fittest person on Earth.

Crossfit Games 2011 Champion, Richard Froning Jr.

The Crossfit Games 2011 held at the home depot center in the States.

Didn't catch much of it but watched all the highlights.

Congrats to big man Rich Froning Jr for taking it all.

A man who accredits most of his mental strength from his Christian Faith.

Much respect.
Check out his blog Crossfit Faith, Really inspirational stuff

However, I was struck by what one of the commentators said.

"There're basically 3 types of competitors out here.

1) The people who are just thankful to make it though the preliminaries and are happy to be at the Games.

2) The people who are thankful to be here and hope that whatever event comes out are to their advantage.

3) The people whom are here to win it all, whatever happens."

I guess it's simple, some people are just happy to be where they are, to have made it thus far and wouldn't mind losing one or two battles at this stage. After all, they had never expected to reach this place.

The next are those who want to win, but just bank on 'luck'. If this topic comes out, if this situation comes out in the business venture, if I'm tasked to lead only youths, no one else, then would I be good at it.

Lastly, are those who just take the cake. Everything goes, EVERYTHING. Come what may, they're mental focus isn't just to get by or leave their fate to luck...

They make their own luck.

CROSS-fit #46 Lemons

2011-08-01T12:06:00.000+08:00

Life isn't exactly a bed of roses. Isn't exactly peach perfect every single time.
However, like the old cliched saying...
When Life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.

Cause we would like to think that we can change our immediate surroundings.
We can change whatever weight is lying in front of us during the WOD.
We can change what other people think and feel about us and about relationships.
Especially for Christians, sometimes we pray with utmost hope that God will change the World for you.
Sorry guys, he only does that once in a blue moon (Noah's ark)
Not to say it won't happen but... Thats not the point.
Things around you won't change if you just sit there, hoping and thinking.

What changes is you.

How you take things, how you muster courage to face up to the task at hand.
How you're gonna actually pick up that 100kg bar.
How you take the crushing news that things just won't work out.
And most of all, how you're gonna react to it all.

We don't change the World at the get go. We change the World by changing ourselves.
Cause darn like what we always say in Crossfit, it's unpredictable, it's random, it's cruel, this World we live in.
So you can either sprawl up in bed awaiting death or...
You can be a 'rockstar', do what you want and be outstanding at it.

So are you gonna make some nice lemonade? Or are you gonna suck on it?

CROSSfit #45 Make it Count

2011-07-29T12:41:00.001+08:00

We all begin excited. Everyone does...
Starting out in Crossfit, starting out in anything new in life, it's a new passion.
A new Drive.
However, soon after, it begins to die down. Eventually, it'll really be mundane.
It'll be you walking through those doors every single time and.

Alright, time to get intense. Time to just keep doing what I have always been doing.

Crossfit prides itself in being the sport which is elicits negative adaptation.
In other words, it doesn't allow your body to adapt to any form of trial, which eventually helps to improve overall fitness.
However, I guess this is in everything, but everyone, everyone will adapt to cycles, to life.

That's when we just go through the motion...
We go through life with the simple idea that, yeah, I just gotta keep coming back, doing what I'm doing all the time.
I just need to keep slogging, I just need to put food on the table.
I just need to serve and get these seats filled, I just need to study and get my grades in school.
But man, what happened to that passion?
What happened to your days which mattered?
Your time which actually counted for its worth?

We talk about intensity, but when was the last time we didn't go through the motion but really
Became Intense in our head.
Don't go head in to the workout without a right frame of mind.
Don't let the day die without you doing something useful.
Make a difference in someone, today. Make your day count.

CROSS-fit #44 2 eyes

2011-07-27T22:17:00.000+08:00

You walk through those doors, those big doors.
You're always welcome, greeted by big wide smiles every single time.
It's quite an assumption to state that nobody really judges you.

Sadly, we live in reality.

Yeah, everyone looks at you and immediately develops an impression of you.
Walking through, you may be big and buff
"This guy looks tough but is so going down."
Walking through, you may have massive weight disorders.
"Alright, he really needs to take some good look at himself and get his butt moving".
Even walking into church, you're sized.
"Is this fella a cleaver? Or a leaver?"
Be it big or small, we all form impressions and perceptions of one another.
It's a natural fact of life.

Well you may be newbie in the box, in your work place, in your church.
Your past is what people look at. What you've done, what you've accomplished.
But don't live on it.
Even if it was a success, or an utter failure.
Shun away all judgments simply cause what matters is how 2 people think.

You and God.

Start afresh, every single time.
They say you can't, but yes, you can. A clean slate.
That's what Crossfit is all about, giving athletes a new chance to start from the very basics again.
That's why Jesus died on the cross, wasn't it?

I wish..

2011-07-25T15:26:00.000+08:00

We all wish for something in life....

To be bigger, to be better.

To lead a happier life, to be more optimistic.

To get that car, to get that girl.

To be simply you.

Then comes the dumb rational thought which crumbles them all.

What are the consequences? What are the risks? What if this or that or....

Well, everyone faces such crossroads.

We could do the thing that everyone else does, choose the safe route.

The less adventurous one. The enclosed one with little or no distractions.

But if we do this, if we just take the route that everyone is taking...

Then maybe we'll be just like them. Always wishing for something to happen...

Or we could be different, be rash, excited, passionate and make the 'wrong' decision.

Yeah, you'll crash and burn often.

But it'll be worth it. Cause you won't be saying "I wish" but more of... "I tried"

And have no regrets whatsoever.

CROSS-fit #43 MIstakes

2011-07-24T11:53:00.000+08:00

Somewhere along the road, everyone is bound to make some mistakes.
Some big, some small.
Some hurtful, some detrimental.
But one thing is for sure, it'll almost always hurt.

I hate making them, it makes me look bad, weak, vulnerable.
Why can't everything be perfect? My form, my fitness, all from the get go.

I will always remember my very first significant injury.
Inexperienced, rash, excited, thinking that my form was perfect.
Did a rounded back deadlift and snap.
There goes my back...

Did I hate myself for it? Yeah I did...
Regret, abundance of it, was stirring all around.
It took me a long while to get back into action again.
It was an agonizing 2 months. Could've been longer if it wasn't for Coach K.

But in every mistake we make, there's always something to take back.
God makes everything perfect in its own time.
There, I learnt that form is darn important, if not vital.
If I didn't make that dumb mistake then, who knows what more serious an injury I would've made now.
I learnt to trust, when things went haywire, I had no one else to trust but.. Coach.

Mistakes....
Love hate relationship, I know.
But you'll never know what great things can come out of it.
You'll never know who you'll meet, what you'll learn, who you'll experience.

CROSS-fit #42 Begin with yourself

2011-07-22T09:36:00.000+08:00

I'm sure it's in the blood of almost every crossfit athlete.
Or any passionate sportsman or anyone believing strongly about whatever ideals they have.
All want to spread the love, all would want to influence others to join in.
To drag so many potential athletes out of that air conditioned useless gym to the rusty down to Earth Box.
To experience that change we all have been through.
This amazing life that we now live.
This love that we have encountered!

However, it's never that easy is it?
Have been asked this question hundreds of times, of which the responses have varied as I've learnt more.
"What is Crossfit?"
The sad thing about it is well, 2 things....
The person ridicules whatever crossfit is or...
The person easily brushes it aside and ignores everything I've said..

You can't argue someone into a sport, into a passion.
You can't argue someone into the Kingdom of God.
So I've adopted a new concept.
Let your life speak for itself.

I'm not gonna be too ambitious and say that I can change the World.
But I know I can change myself.
I'd rather the question "What have you done with yourself? You seem fitter, you seem happier!"
From that, I can change those whom I care about.
One Starfish at a time.
My brother, my family, my colleague, my classmates.
Who knows, maybe the World one day.

CROSS-fit #41 Product of the Heart

2011-07-21T23:47:00.000+08:00

Probably heard it more than once around here.
Strength doesn't come from the body but really, from the heart.
Most of what you are, who you are, ain't made up of what goes through your head.
But what's in your heart.

There're times where your mind tells you that certain things are just impossible.
You've done the 230# deadlift and it's easy, but fear is in your heart. You probably won't get it.
You're attempting a PR of a minute in Fran, logically impossible but your heart is ready. You've got it.
Math, logic and facts are only valid to a certain extent.
But let it be a product of your heart.

Your life, your relationship, your whole entity.
Don't let your mind get in the way of your heart. Sometimes, you need to let it lead.

So Heart be strong, be sure, be courageous.

Most importantly, fill your heart with Love.
Love for what you're doing, who you are, who you're with and let it flow.
That's when the real you comes, that's when true, unbelievable strength originates from.
Stop asking 'why' but 'what now'. Cause that makes a whole lot more sense.

Present

2011-07-21T13:18:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Good Life - One Republic

Looking back, the past really is a shudder, can't seem to stand the sight of it.
Looking forward, the future is uncertain, doubtful, insecure at times.
Well, whatever has happened before, whatever happens tomorrow, we have today.

Wouldn't exactly know what the future holds for every single one of us.
Heartbreak, sadness, smiles, glory, happiness, joy, Love?
Planning is definitely a must but...
Don't get too caught up in that (Telling myself that)
What matters is now. That we enjoy the moment, live for it.

Sometimes, just sometimes, logic, practicality, meaning takes a secondary role when you just look at where you are...
Now.
I'd like to think I've changed, become different the past one month.
Never has this happened before.
Looking at my position now, of course there's a lot left to be desired but...
I've never been happier in such a long while.

"She made you decent, and in return, you made her so happy."
I'm a Persistent Optimistic Stubborn Scum
And cause I've actually really found the game changer.
I'm going to keep trying.

CROSS-fit #40 Scars

2011-07-15T01:17:00.000+08:00

Blisters, Shin Scrapes, Bruises from the fall off the bar, the bar slamming into your chin.
Them scars....
Hate them really.
They don't just stick with you, probably for life, they hurt...

In the short term, they're going to be so much of a pain, you can't go on.
It just stops you from doing whatever, man, it even makes showering a big pain...
In the long run, they look terrible and always, you'll have a story to tell.
A story of how pain became a reality.

Scars.

I'm just staring at one of them right now, the open wound on my hand.
All due to the many pull ups we've done.
Some call it crazy, self mutilation, torture to a certain extent.
But nahhh, that's what they say.

But sometimes, just sometimes, scars mean more than just pain.
They remind you of the hurt you went through, the trials that you've overcome.
The valley experiences that you've had and how you've come across victorious.
Look at those scars and you'll remember how when nobody said you could,
you determined your own fate.

They'll continue to hurt, they may stay with you for life.
But what makes the difference is what you do from here on out.
To wuss away and not train anymore, all cause of a little cosmetic problem is at hand or cause it just hurts...
Everyone has their limits, their threshold of pain. why not try try pushing it?

The scars in life may be deep, sometimes they may never disappear.
But don't look at it and remember the pain, look at it and remember the victory.
Remember how in the toughest times, it was also the time you decided to keep on.
That's how Badas*es are born and made.

CROSS-fit #39 Cue it

2011-07-13T22:50:00.000+08:00

Everyone hears these few words somewhere along their lives in whatever they're doing.

"Don't give up! Push it! Go harder Go harder! GO GO GO! Don't give up! Keep going!"

Yupp, these words are probably the best things you can hear from anyone when things are rough.

Well, during the workout, repeat this 20 times, yeah it's encouraging.

Do this about 100 times over and I'll probably want to kill you.

Encouragement is great, it's really fantastic. But often, that isn't what people need.

They need cues, they need to know what's going on.

What they're doing right or wrong...

Anyone, anyone at all can repetitively shout nice, happy words.

But not everyone can do the unkind thing, to tell you what's wrong.

That's what separates the people from the leaders.

(Don't get me wrong, everyone, EVERYONE is meant to lead in one way or another)

So cue it.

Don't keep saying "Don't worry, it'll be ok" or "keep pushing it!".

You saying those simple words won't help them at all, it won't help them get their Muscle Up, or Pull Up or fix their relationship!

Maybe, just maybe, it'll lift their spirits a little...

But practicality.... ZERO USE.

"tighten your core!"

"Keep looking up, not down!"

"Use your hips not your hands!"

"Don't wallow in pity, look to God!"

"Do not have a spirit of fear!"

These have direction, these have instruction. These are cues.

They don't need to be a story or a sermon, they're to the point.

They're things people can instantly remember, apply and get better at whatever they're doing.

So the next time you want to keep saying, "Don't give up" and repeat it a million times...

Please think twice.

Instead, cue it.

Anyone can be great cheerleaders, but not everyone great leaders.

CROSS-fit #38 Happiness

2011-07-12T13:03:00.001+08:00

The Crossfit regime advocates a few things, of which, it states that nutrition is really, the base of fitness.

It's the building block of how you perform in workouts, feel in the day, even how you sleep at night.

Of which, Paleo is the key.

A restrictive diet, acceptable to certain extents but tough on certain people at the start.

However, it has become imperative that there's more to this diet that meets the eye.

Of course the diet is important, but if there's anything at all, it isn't the single more important factor.

Don't get me wrong, the diet works well, for everyone in fact.

However, what drives you is really what goes on in your head.

Are you happy doing what you're doing?

Are you happy with your life in general?

This goes beyond what you eat physically, but maybe, what you eat emotionally, spiritually, mentally.

Those play a larger role, in pushing your lifts, pushing your body and physical limits.

Ever had moments like that?

So feed your soul with the right stuff, be continually happy.

Then it'll come naturally, your best results! Not just in terms of fitness but also in almost every area of life.

"The Joy of the Lord is my Strength" - Neh 8:10

So what're you waiting for? Indulge in life once in a while, stuff your face with macs and pancakes, along with all the fun stuff in life!

It'll help for sure.

We've only got one life to live, so do it to the fullest, it's meant to be enjoyed.

So smile, look ahead towards the day!

(Fyi. Paleo can be sumptuous too!)

Don't think, Just Do

2011-07-10T15:28:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Iridescent - Linkin Park

Such a mentality has been with me for a long while, but only recently has it been quickly enforced.
Take things easy, keep things simple. Don't think, Just do.
It's worked for most of my life. In fact, it's been great!
However, it has also brought hurt to many.

We all learn from our mistakes, our pitfalls, our failures.
So here's to the past. To all whom I've ever offended.
I apologize and am sorry!
However, that still does not change the way I operate. Of course I'll be slightly more cautious.
But... This is me, carefree, happy.

Being with a friend these few days have made me realize that simple fact.
Your happiness is what matters isn't it? You can complicate things till you get confused yourself...
But to just be happy, it's quite priceless.
Of course, I put myself out there to get hurt big time.
Like an open target waiting to get shot down.
But that's where the fun comes in isn't it? The risk of it all.

CROSS-fit #37 Power Source

2011-07-10T13:55:00.000+08:00

It's a very common misconception, that power comes from the extremes.
Take for example, the Clean and Jerk. If you break the motion down, it won't work.
Picking a very heavy weight and placing it overhead has to be quick, fast, not broken down.
It has to be one very fluid motion, we call this, Core to extremity.
Power comes from your core, a strong hard power, to the extremities, your limbs, being extremely fast.
Your body is all connected together, take one component out and that's the end of it.
Lose your hands and you can't do nothing, lose the legs and you've got no power.
This idea is similar to that of almost every other sport.

The power of a punch from a Muay Thai Fighter comes not from the but the twist in the legs and hips.
The explosiveness of a tennis swing is not from the shoulders but from the pivot and utilizes ever muscle in the body.
The Strength of a Rugby tackle origins from his legs in that crouch position, not his hands.
The fervency of a Prayer Warrior comes not from his heart or mind but from his Spirit.

So don't keep focusing on the extremes, don't keep training the areas which you know make you look good.
Cause nothing good comes from that, look at the areas deep down.

They're normally hidden, nothing fancy, not even visible at times.
But that, that is the thing which makes you who you are, not the size of your arms.
Not the size of your cell group, the size of your house, the size of your brain or even the size of your wallet.
You're not defined by that, get your power source right.

CROSS-fit #36 Safety

2011-07-08T02:22:00.001+08:00

Everyone loves the word 'safe'. It just feels secure, comforting, 'safe'.
Man, in Singapore it's even one of the core values in the Air Force, that's something to be reckoned with.
But really, safe?
If everything was safe, maybe we wouldn't have come so far, as a population.
I look back and realize how the best people, the best inventors or businessmen never had a long moment of 'safe' ever.
Here in Crossfit we always try to be safe, but if something is 100% safe, then probably it won't be that effective.

Right here, I could get you to do 30 pull ups, all sweet, with perfect form, with perfect motion and muscle activation, all safe, no injuries whatsoever. Just that it'll take 10 years for you to do that.

Yupp, that's safe for you.

However, bring it to the other extreme, 30 pull ups guaranteed, in a span of just 2 weeks. But a real possible risk of dislocating your shoulder.

Point? Balance balance balance.

But more often than not, people love to linger around the safe side.
When it's real simple,
Perfection is derived from Sufferings.
So yeah, at some point in time, your body is going to give way, your heart is going to grow weary.
But that's cool, it's a risk we all take.
Nobody is going to live life unscathed.

You wanna get better?
You wanna get that PR 400m? You wanna get that dream of yours? You wanna get that life?
You wanna get that relationship with God or your family?
Take that risk. (A smart one of course)
It'll hurt, for sure. But it'll be worth it, I assure.

CROSS-fit #35 Perception

2011-07-06T13:14:00.001+08:00

Written on the Board.
"Fran"
It's scary, it elicits shock, fear and a whole lot of pain.

Fran looks at you, tells you that you've got 45 reps of Thursters and Pullups.
It stares you down, hinting the immense pain waiting in the lungs, quads, grip and shoulders.,
It tells you that you're unprepared, not ready for a thrashing like that.
It's screaming in your ears, telling you that you probably ain't able to walk out of here alive, so don't try...
The Fran on the whiteboard is nothing but pure evil, implanting thoughts of failure, dismay.

Well, that's how the Fran looks at you.
What matters is how You, look at Fran.

You look at Fran, sitting there on the whiteboard, alone. Thinking that she's one lonely girl, you could do with more! Confident aren't you...
You shove the Fran to the side with the simple impression that you're gonna give your best whatever happens.
You tell Fran that you'r going to take her down, you're going to own her.
You grab Fran by the neck and push it up and pull it down and with every successful rep, you push on.
Ready, you take Fran head on with all your have, with all your heart.
By the time it's over, you say these few important words.

"Frans my Bit** now."
What counts is what You tell Fran and not what Fran tells you.

So what's written on your whiteboard of workouts today?
Whats on the whiteboard of your life?
Tell it what it is, not the other way round. Make your own future.

To be Happy

2011-07-05T14:42:00.000+08:00

Listening to : The Only Exception - Paramore

Complications abound from every knowable direction.
Deep thoughts and insecurities flourish under such circumstances.
Unsure of whether you're putting your head out there too easily, too willingly.
It disappoints you sometimes. Hurts you most of the time.
Sometimes it's even a viscous cycle.
I used to envision a simple life, a simplistic train of thoughts.
Whereby if things worked out, it didn't need to change.
Little did I know that on the other side of the river, lies damage control.

I learnt quickly that, that was greatly flawed.
Can't live life alone, in your own World.

So here's to a new mental picture, a new frame of mind.
One which is sure to lead to pretty much sure destruction.
But one which keeps me happy. Keeps everyone happy.
I'm not going into the region of complicated, labels and what have you.
I'm just glad to be where I am. Always...

Stay so I can make..

2011-07-03T12:06:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Glad you came - The Wanted

In another 6 hours, the 3 weeks of 'testing' would be over.
When that happens, I won't know what to expect no more.
I'd like to think I lead a simple life, being contented with the little things.
Don't exactly think too much about the fine deep details of things.
But man, this already looks messy to begin with.
Messy but incredibly fun.

CROSS-fit #34 Agressive

2011-07-03T03:21:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, you walk up to the bar and stomp your feet. You can do it.
It's a goal, totally within your reach, totally within your grasp.
However, it slips away, you miss that small lock out in the snatch.
Yupp, it's probably cause...

You need to get Aggressive.

Crossfit isn't a simple walk in the park.
If it was, go join the easy people at the gym whom spend 1 hour doing sets of weights in front of the mirror and having regular socializing in the break time.
So, sorry to burst your bubble, but crossfit is like reality.
It's hard, tough, rough and not easy going.
Things will not fall onto your lap whenever you whine, complain or roll about the floor in pain.

Yeah, think pain is a way to snuff your way through to victory?
Nah, it's a symptom, not a route to it. A byproduct of effort and not a motivating factor for it.
It isn't the pain, it's the desire to push through it.
It's the agression.
"The Violent Take it by Force." - Matt 11:12

Get aggressive when making the turn over in the snatch, cause the weaker it is, the slower it will be.
Failure comes when you don't get really aggressive. It's somewhat the proof of your pursuit.
Don't get me wrong, don't get angry...
But get into the mindset that you're willing to do anything for it. That you're going to go all out.
For desperate situations, do desperate things to get your miracle.
So fight for it, fight and be aggressive in claiming that PR, that relationship, that future, that dream.
Step up, stomp up, grip and go!

Level 1 certified

2011-06-28T09:20:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Come home - One Republic

Dreams will forever be only dreams unless you dare to take it into your hands to make it reality.
Maybe it was just the simple effervescence which drove me to take it.
Or perhaps it was something deep down inside, wanting to do something great for myself and God.
Either way, I made that choice (an expensive one if I may add) and eventually made it.
I am beyond satisfied, beyond encouraged by those who really made the effort to train us.
Looking at the heart of all the head trainers at the course was really refreshing.

Of course, doing Fran was so messed up that it has made the top 'best' WODs ever done.
but more than that, Level 1 blew me away cause of the science and concepts behind all that programming.
It kind of inspired me more to do greater things with the cert.
All i need to do now is find avenues, avenues and more of them.
Crossfit isn't just a fitness program, no it isn't.
I know people will laugh, put down, rebuke what comes next...
But Crossfit is really a lifestyle. Of living strong, and going hard. Every single time...
I've got many ideas for CROSS-fit which will come in due time. but the most important thing is that I translate this into the lives of those I can influence.
So, yes, don't be surprised if I pop that question out all the time.
"Have you heard about it?"

Evidently, it is kind of sad when others, those closest to you, don't celebrate this dream of yours.
Some may even judge you and call you foolish for having the wrong priorities.
However, hold your ground, cause things will always, always get better.

Superheroes

2011-06-24T02:08:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Save The World - Swedish House Mafia

It's probably human nature to be a dreamer, to want to be living in a fantasy.
To do the impossible things over and over again. To take flight!
After watching the Green Lantern (Nothing really impressive to be honest) I guess it hit me.
At one point in time, we all wanted to be one of them, just like the superheroes we all watch.
The kind of guy that flies around, saving people, getting the last kiss, making that big sacrifice.
The hero that can never be hurt, self sacrificing, stands for the good of the people, discarding all fear.
Maybe it's a little far fetched or maybe I'm speaking from a personal experience.
But we all have had a dream of being just like them, maybe even now.

But really, sometimes the superheroes that we want to see aren't too far away.
Look at the hero that just picked his son up after he had a bad fall despite him having the worst day at work.
Look at the hero whom picks up the barbell when he doesn't have proper legs to stand up to do so.
Look at the hero who refuses to make the wrong decision though it's so so enticing.
Look at the hero who stands up after being hit down time and time again.
I suppose we admire the abilities of these heroes a whole lot, but what really strikes us is the resolve in them.
Really, superheroes ain't too far away.

They're all around us, right there beside us.

Sometimes, you just have to be your own hero, to keep doing what you're doing.
Living the life you live and who knows? You may just be that hero to someone else...

CROSS-fit #33 Virtuosity

2011-06-22T09:02:00.001+08:00

The full Clean and jerk, looks really impressive, beautiful if performed correctly.
The Snatch is majestic, fast and explosive.
The Kettle Bell Swing just looks plain cool, tossing a ridiculously heavy weight above your head.
The Handstand Push Up boasts unparalleled balance and strength.

The Muscle Up, so intricate in nature that getting the first one warrants a celebration.

In the crossfit methodology, what's most important is really, virtuosity.
"performing the common uncommonly well".
Yeah it looks great, it looks amazing but... Whats the benefit if you can do a simple deadlift properly?
Why run when you can't even walk properly?
Of course we aren't against creativity. But that creativity has to be accompanied by strong fundamentals.
Even if you're the one teaching, the one leading, don't feel that repeating the basics will bore people away.
Don't try to entertain people and impress them with your wide range of knowledge.

On the contrary, if you insist on the basics, really insist on them without relenting, people will come to recognize you as experienced, seasoned and well trained yourself.
I hold high regard for Coach K, I'd like to think that it's really because of the way he trains.
Spending months on an empty PVC bar doing the simplest of movements over and over again.
1000 PVC snatches, while he could easily progress to lift something a whole lot heavier.

The fancy stuff can wait, the big jumps, the big throws, the big prayers, the big business can all wait.
Firstly, get the basics right, recommit to it, monthly, weekly, daily.
So what are your basics today? get to it, learn it once again, you're never too old for it.
Then give it some time, your life will shoot up in performance soon after.
Just you wait...

To come up Higher

2011-06-21T22:24:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Every teardrop is a waterfall - Coldplay

So what does it mean to come up Higher?

I guess for everyone out there, it all means something different.

I didn't exactly go to the full Higher conference but... I'd like to think that I caught something and brought it back.

Gotta admit that really, life hasn't been the kindest to me, or rather, I haven't been to kind to it.

So the past 30 days, of seeking, of sanctifying, or attempting to be one.

I have to add that there were times whereby I stumbled, where I didn't exactly keep to the 30 days.

I fell here and there but I guess what matters is that I'm still here and I'm still trying.

So what is higher?

For me, it was really a time to discover who I am inside, to converge who I am and who I wanna be.

Through it all, through the 30 days, I think I've found myself.

Who I am, reminded of my destiny, reminded of what I'm supposed to do.

Strangely, even more inclined to a change of direction at times as well.

However, what matters more is what happens from here on out.

Life won't remain this way, it won't even remain on the uphill if I don't make an effort to make it so.

Yeah, so here I am, all that I am, wanting to chase my dreams, to chase God, to chase the desires of my heart. I know, I totally know that I'll be met with great opposition.

However, it means the World to chase it regardless of all that's coming against you.

It means the World when someone texts you saying that...

"Blood is thicker than water."

When someone comes to you and tells you that,

"What you've done has forever changed my life."

Coming up higher, I wanna chase my dreams. Again.

Renewed passion, renewed fire, renewed heart and a renewed spirit.

It's not exactly going to stay this way, I won't let it anymore.

Lionel has changed and is still changing.

Eventually, I hope to embody what I am meant to be.

CROSS-fit #32 You need this

2011-06-21T08:21:00.000+08:00

Like what I've said, numbers are just numbers.
Knocking them out in the WOD can be easy, or maybe really tough at times.
Going for that PR may be the toughest thing you've ever done.
Maybe you walk away thinking that, I've done it all, I ain't got no more juice.
"It is just a number, I can always try again."
However, there comes a point in time whereby,

You need this.

For some unexplained reason, you refuse to relent, give in and let go of it.
You just keep trying and trying.
Sometimes, the drive doesn't come from you, but from an external source.
Your friends come to you, seeing you fail time and time again, tell you that you need to knock this out.
You need to be the faster person, you need to be the stronger guy,
you need to get that lift, you need to be the bigger, more gracious man.
It's a fine line between pride and raising your confidence level for the rest of the month, or even life.

So be violent when it comes to such situations.
Be aggressive, even angry at times.
Be sure to need it, to risk it all.

CROSS-fit #31 The Old Record

2011-06-19T21:42:00.001+08:00

Then the walls are formed, the impression what can and cannot be done.
The PB.
Yeah, it's a realistic measure of what you can do, a general idea of where you stand.
A sub 5 min Fran, a 230# Clean and Jerk, a 200# Snatch, a 25 round Cindy.
All of them, they all play a huge role in our WOD, in our lives.
We all refuse to admit it, we refuse to acknowledge it but...
At the back of our heads, it's always hitting us, slowing us down at times.

"You can never bust your PB by more than 20#, it's just not possible"
"You can't cough out 2 more rounds than your previous Cindy."
"You can't do very much better than your previous exam/job/relationship/trial."
However, they're all just numbers aren't they?
Yeah, they are in place for a reason, for you to decimate them.
To ignore them and crush them all out.

Numbers are always going to be just numbers.
What matters is how you look at it and whether or not you let them determine your life.
Whether you let them determine how well you're gonna do this time round.
So what if your PB was a 140# Snatch?
So what? You can let it slow you down and obstruct you from giving the 160# a shot. (It would prob affect you sub-consciousnesses during the lift in any case)
Or you could just ignore it, ignore your past achievements and LIFT.
Don't let it limit you, don't let yourself limit who you are,

Right this moment...

After all, they are just Numbers...

CROSS-fit #30 What is it?

2011-06-18T01:11:00.001+08:00

The weights shifted.
The body just ain't ready for it.
I haven't got enough sleep.
There're a thousand and one reasons why you fail.
But really, what is it?
I guess you could easily shove it aside and say that you had a bad back.
Or the workout was just not in your favour.
But this IS crossfit isn't it?
To be trained in all possible domains and specialize in not one but all modals of fitness.

So what is it?
There has to be a reasonable explanation as to why you didn't finish fast enough.
Why you let your fellow athlete overtake you at the last stretch.
We can attribute it to so many external factors.
But seriously?

Give it a break and face it.

It's you, you didn't make it. You weren't strong enough there and then.

It isn't simple condemnation which could get you up into a higher position, no.
It's humility, to tell yourself that, this was my doing.
The workout was all me, and all of me wasn't good enough.
So try again, train harder.
Then get BACK AT IT!
Don't give excuses for the WOD, for your own life.
Face it, man up and own it.

Dreams revived

2011-06-16T22:46:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Runaway - Yeah Yeah Yeahs

It's probably the cumulative impressions I've been getting these few days.
About how destiny is at our fingertips.
About how God is ever closer to us and right there, close than our breath.
So yeah, why not give it a shot?
Why not keep on at it, revive that dream. Go again!

That's what I'm exactly going to do.
Crossfit!
This time, it'll be different, with a different focus and center to it all.
Summer is not over till it's over. There're still things to be done! :)

Life is changing, I can really tell.

You're never too old

2011-06-16T16:52:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Pressure - Nadia Ali

When someone tells you, "you're too old".
Don't ever listen to them.
You're never too old, you're never too young either.
You are who you are, you can be who you want to be if only you choose to be.

LOUD Camp 2011 : Undivided
It was pretty much the best camp I've ever been to.
Maybe cause this time round, I've come from a rather rough past few months/weeks.
Whereby the year has been anything but desirable.
But honestly speaking, it was really uplifting.
Not just cause of the games, the cheers.
It's cause of the presence of God, it's cause of the company, friends, new and old.
I really don't have much to say regarding Loud Camp, it's somewhat beyond words.
I just wish, I really do wish that whatever I have done the past camp has helped others in a greater way than on a superficial level.

Coincidentally, the letter I wrote to myself reached me.
It's been 6 months.
Reading back... I've really made it.
Barely, but still, I've made it.
I know I can make the last 6 months work.
God is good.
He hasn't forgotten about a rotten apple like me.
Who knows, even he can make a rotten apple, fresh again

CROSS-fit #29 Angels

2011-06-16T16:46:00.001+08:00

We all wish we could see them, touch them, be like them.
In the midst of all the heat, the adversities, we all want to see angels.
Mary saw an angel before she conceived Jesus in her womb.
So did many other heroes of Faith in the Bible.
Some people even claimed that they have seen visions of angels surrounding others.
I really do admire many of those visions.
No, I'm not saying that they aren't real but...
Most of the time, most of the time, the rule is that no, we don't really see open angels coming on us.

We all want that angelic being protecting us all the time.
Telling us it's ok, everything will be alright.
We hope for better grades, results, instant victory with the appearance of an angelic being.
May even come in the form of a person, a friend.
But really, sometimes, most of the time, that isn't the case, is it?

There're times where we feel close to dying, in excruciating pain.
Well guess what, there is an angel.
There always is. One that resembles you.
One that comes with hard work.
One that's created by you.
It's the sweat angel, the angel that you make for yourself after you've done all you can, worked all possible ways. Outdid yourself multiple times.
You don't need angels from heaven most of the time.
But you do need that sweat angel, imprinted on the floor...

48 hours

2011-06-11T00:42:00.000+08:00

Listening to : California King Bed - Rihanna

The next 48 hours will probably mean the most to me in this coming summer.
In the next 48 hours, I'll be tested....

In my physical self.
In my emotions.
In my spirit.

It's all happening one after another all in a span of 48 hours.
Of which, I can't compartmentalize properly.
Doing one, I think of another.
I can't keep myself from getting distracted.
At least that was the case the past 2 weeks or so.
So tomorrow, in 6 hours. Will be the real deal.
The real start of it all.
I need to embrace it, I need to face it.
Of which, I just hope the departure will not crumble me....

Let's begin this wham bam with the games.
Crossfit Games.
Let me exceed myself, let me create my own outcome.

Grabbing it by the horns

2011-06-08T16:05:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Pressure - Nadia Ali

Sometimes, opportunities and chances present themselves in the strangest of ways.
In the weirdest of circumstances, sometimes in the moments of weaknesses of ones heart.
Perhaps you just need to get ready to grab it.
By the horns.
And this time, I'm gonna give it a shot. Putting myself out there again...

Stale

2011-06-06T23:39:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Every Teardrop is a waterfall - Coldplay

It is unbelievably tiring at times. To continually keep having that certain energy that we had when we were young.
When running around, shouting around like mere idiots were seemingly incredibly cool.
But somehow, as we get older, so does our heart, so does our soul.
I have always detested growing old. I never want to face the realities of an adult.
However, it really is in my door steps isn't it?

This summer has been anything but fulfilling.
In terms of my achievement as an individual and as a person.
I've so far accomplished.... Nothing much.
I know I've set many plans, to expand crossfit, to help them market etc.
But all of which have been of little success. Little or no responses and yes, I got lazy as well.
I guess this is really the thing which kills dreams, the lack of discipline.
I need to get up and get going.
I do, however, view this upcoming camp as an unforseen opportunity.
To well, get back.

For now, I just wanna get by tomorrow.
Without losing my gut of course.

CROSS-fit #28 Again and again

2011-06-06T02:36:00.001+08:00

Why do you go back again and again.
Why do you return back with torn and tattered palms,
with scrapped shins, a bruised chin, a tired heart...
Why do you keep going back to the box? To a place where things are nothing but easy.

I guess it is human nature, for us to want to face challenges in our lives.
Maybe it's even the Godly nature in us which compels us to find something to push our limits.
We just can't live with a mediocre life can we?
Where easy is our way of life. Of course everyone wishes for a life like that but.....
Is it really what everyone wants to do?
To lead an easy life, a convenient life, where's the purpose in that? Where's the fun?
No doubt, not everyone who walks through those wide open doors of the box necessarily stay.
Many in fact, leave.
They give up after just a few classes, they just can't take the heat.
It's back to the typical gym for them, where easy kind of thrives.

However, be the person that stays.
Be the person that demands hardship, that demands trials.
Be the person with the guts to face it head on.
No matter what the side effects. Scarred legs, bruised hands, whatever it is...

Stay.

Come back, again and again.
5 times a week, to embrace the suck.
Have the courage to do so.

CROSS-fit #27 Let it out

2011-06-03T16:45:00.002+08:00

There're days which just suck in general.
Whereby you just don't feel you got it, in work, in school, in relationships.
Many come into the box, step in, with burdens heavier than the weights they're about to carry.
Distracted and utterly angst I guess.
However, it's alright, come in, come in. Nobody is going to fault you.
Nobody is going to judge you.
It's alright if in here, your form is off just this once.

Come in and LET IT OUT.
Let it all out, get it out on the weights, the run, the pull, the swing.
Do the WOD to the best that you can and in the midst of it, tell yourself you're better than this.
You can conquer the WOD, you can conquer the World, you can conquer your life.
Don't be hesitant, don't runaway, but let it out, all of it. From the bottomless pit of despair in your heart.
Sometimes, people even cry in the WOD, due to pain, but sometimes due to despair.
But hey, this is the place where your family is. Where people have got your back.

Then as you step out, you leave with your head high, with confidence that now that that's done...
Come what may, you'll stand strong in the World.
As you leave, you do so alot less angrier than when you first stepped in.
Take a deep breathe, cause now, even that has substance.
Go to your box.
Go to your cell group.
Go to your church.
And let it all out.

And the seasons change

2011-06-03T02:21:00.000+08:00

Listening to : The ice is getting thinner - Death Cab for Cutie

There's a season to everything ain't it?
Honestly, it all goes in one cycle, one really really big cycle.
It does at least for me, and honestly, it's a little irritating.
The same process keeps repeating itself, yeah, most of the time it's improved by a certain measure but....
The outline, the shape, the structure is all the same isn't it?
A season to be hopeless, a season to be a victor, a season to be a bystander, a season to help, a season to simply step out of someone else's life altogether, and a season to step right back in.

Perhaps it's time to change certain cycles, cause frankly, it ain't working at all.
Life is tough, don't make it harder for yourself.
Even if your life is great, don't mess anothers up.
I've grown to learn a simple aspect of life.
We aren't alone, we aren't our own World.

True ain't it?
I can't live life thinking that whatever I do isn't going to influence another.
Cause I've learnt first hand, that it does.
No matter what you say, no matter what you do...
You become the people around you and those around you become just like you.
It's a coinciding relationship, symbiotic in a sense.
But really, it's done....
I have to be aware, to emerge from my shell...

And I really thought, for a moment, a genuine moment, that everything was almost peach perfect.
Looks like life has it's way to bring it all back doesn't it?
Either way, change has to occur, massive change.
Conscience change, every step of the way...

CROSS-fit #26 You'll never know

2011-06-02T11:56:00.000+08:00

Your full potential is just like a present, a gift.

You're given it by someone higher up there, and the best thing is...

You don't know what's really inside, you can't tell how big, magnificent it is.

All you can do is to slowly unwrap it, one bit at a time.

However, if you don't do anything, You'll never know won't you?

Attempting a lift beyond your PR by like 40#.

Going for a 2.4km time trial out of curiousity.

Putting yourself out there by leading a team of men or women in your business.

You'll never know if you can do it, you won't know if you're cut out for it, if you don't try...

If you could just attempt the lift, if you just did it, those numbers would be written on the white board.

Of course, failing it would mean writing an 'F' beside those numbers.

But what's up with that? Who cares, really. What matters is that those numbers are up there.

And probably, one day, that 'F' won't be there.

But hey, you'll never get there if you don't start with an 'F' beside it.

Don't let fear block you from your fullest potential.

Don't let fear block your destiny in GOD, in life.

It's ok if there's an 'F' beside it at times, cause what matters is that you try.

Hey, look at Peter, even he failed to walk on water the whole way.

But he's remembered cause at least, he tried.

CROSS-fit #25 Just Go With It

2011-06-01T03:32:00.001+08:00

It's not just you, everyone has their moments of folly.
Moments where you just don't feel like going to the WOD, you just don't want to go through that pain.
You know it's good, you totally know that it's for your benefit but no....
Just not in the mood, maybe it's due to various reasons.
Excuses if I may say.
Here are just a few of them...

I've got no time for it, I've gotta work today.
Homework calls!
I'm too fatigued from the previous day...
I'm tired.
Muscles are acting up on me!
I just don't feel comfortable with the group.
I'm shy.
I'm too good for this.
I've been hurt by one of the guys there.
Not my kind of thing.
Do I really have to go through this? Rather not...
Sleep beckons.
You know what, I'm really not cut out for this.

Heard them before?
Maybe even from you? Whats your excuse? For not working out, for life...
Yeah, I know, don't blame yourself, it's alright.
But don't let it become a habit, everytime this happens, Just Go With It!
Don't let your convictions become a preference.
Don't let it happen in crossfit, in your relationship, in your schools, in church.
When you just don't feel like going to church, stop, think for a moment and Just Go With It!
It's that simple, don't stop that motion, cause everytime you make that right decision to get out of your house, out of your comfort zone, victory is already yours.

It's just like the typical deadlift, the toughest point is really the first pull.
That first few inches off the ground, once it's up, momentum will do the rest of the work (most of the time.)
It's the same in life, get off your butt, get off your computer, get off your LAZY ASS! AND GET MOVING!
Once you get it going, life will seem a whole lot easier.
Trust me, it works. All the time...

So what's your excuse?

Revisited : Little Wonders

2011-05-31T02:47:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Hey There Delilah - Plan White T's

You got up this morning.
You went to eat breakfast.
You got to work/school.
You got your grades back.
You received a smile from a few friends and struck a good conversation.
You had lunch with your friends. They're really awesome.
You had a rough day at work but you managed to squeeze a nice latte in the middle of it.
You really don't want to be where you are but... You have some friends around you.

I guess I haven't really been appreciative recently.
I haven't made much effort to really sit down and be happy with the things around me.
That I really can have a real shitty-terrible-bad day but still be happy.
Cause at the end of it, I look to the left and to the right, I realize I have people whom will fight alongside me.
Alongside me to the very end, which is really ridiculous at times.
Never would I have imagined that I would be in this position yet again.

Looking at the term 'valor' the past few days and trying to understand it...
It really isn't about true strength or your ability in battle.
It's about the heart, it's about the people around you.
Strength isn't about what's in you, but what's around...
Today, and even in weeks to come. No matter what happens.
A united front doesn't explain it enough... No.
Anyone can be united, it's really, for what cause...

It isn't always about victory or defeat, sometimes it just isn't.
This time, I want to make sure that it isn't so.
It's really going to be about true valor, about those by our sides.
Cause these are the little wonders that make the miracle.
These are the amazing things, amazing treasures that we have. :)

Driven

2011-05-30T04:00:00.001+08:00

Listening to : Give Me Your Love - Florrie

I think it's time, time to get a grip and not let what other people do affect the course of my life.
I determine my own life, I determine how to live.
Circumstances will not dictate my vision and emotions no more.
Of course it's easier said than done.
But really, I'm a little tired of being utilized with no real purpose.
I wanna be that man who raises up his hand!
Here I am, send me.
With no baggage whatsoever, with no hindrances at all.
About 20 more days to go.

The question comes down to, Why

2011-05-29T01:44:00.001+08:00

Listening to : U and I - Medina

In the past 24 hours, I've seen many faces of people.
Friends whom I really thought I could trust and befriend to turn into well, sudden violent monsters.
Pardon the use of strong language. But I suppose this is what competition drives people to do.
Also, I've seen how total strangers become the strongest supporters of a vision and goal that was just handed to them at that very moment.
No matter what, no matter how.
I have to admit, that where I am now, in the position I was placed in,
was never my desire, at all.
However, now that it is, I will make it a point that who I am becomes who WE are.

I am living the life, not because of the many leaders that I have with me, not cause of the people I have.
Yeah, I enjoy every one bit of it.
But really, I guess I'm taking it, everything with good stride cause I'm having a different mentality.
A different one from all 4 camps I've been a leader in.
No longer shall it be a conquest to be the best by pushing down the rest.
Nope.
We become the best, by being who we are, by having that energy, by having that spirit.
Unity not by conquest.
But unity by strength.
Let's see how this will go.
I am excited!!

CROSS-fit #24 Life must go on

2011-05-29T01:34:00.001+08:00

Stumbled and fell?
Get Up.
Something so instinctive isn't it? But I guess life isn't so kind at times.
You may fall so hard, getting up may seem way too much of a tall order.

Mid way a tough thruster, mid way the heavy backsquat.
It really is tough to overcome the inertia to get up isn't it? It really is a tall order to simply stand up...
Sometimes it requires every ounce of strength and fiber from your head all the way to your gut.
Or maybe it's the prowler.
Pushing it one step at a time and man, your legs start seizing up, your body begins to fail you and well...
You just fall, your stabilizers have failed you.

But get up, get up, get up.
Don't let one fall take you out.

Your best days are ahead of you - Pst Phil

The rest at the end of the push, the breathe and the full extension of the Squat.
It's a whole lot sweeter.
It makes a World of a difference.
Between a new PR and a failed attempt.
Between walking with your head held high or you thinking that you could've just given it more.

So don't stay down, don't stay on your fours, get up on your feet.
Don't lie with your back against the floor, roll over and lunge yourself up.
Time and time again...

The turn

2011-05-28T02:23:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Heaven - Fire Theft

So it seems that in a span of the past 10-12 hours, my life has been aptly thrown into a pile of responsibilities.
Not complaining, I must admit that such an opportunity came as a shock but...
I always love a good challenge.
2 weeks, I've got 2 whole weeks to come up with an idea, an identity strong enough to match up.
I've also got to admit, I was always more comfortable in the sidelines but....
Guess this could just be God's way of forcing me back in line.
Getting my back in shape, I think it's actually working to a large extent.

Either way,Yurika! (Or however you spell it)
Will be a great change for not just me but for everyone else in the house.
It isn't the first, but it sure is pretty much the most challenging of camps and houses to lead.
I just hope I can inspire, not aggressiveness, but the desire to be the best in every one of those teams.
What they take home has to be something which we create, which flows from our heart.
So yes, that brings me back to the simple point...

The heart is what really matters isn't it?
I've got to admit, the heart looks pretty bleak at the moment, but i think it's changing.
It's getting clearer, it's getting purer.
I just hope, by the time I speak my first words, my first cheer, it'll be genuine.
Not my heart, but yours...

CROSS-fit #23 Ditch it

2011-05-27T04:20:00.001+08:00

Ditch it, throw it down, give yourself a break.

Really?

The one sport which is convicting everyone to push their limits is telling you to ditch it.
You gotta throw it down sometimes, you gotta let it go.
Live to fight another day.
Giving up the battle doesn't always mean giving up the war.
One failure, one downturn does not mean fatality of your dream.
Attempt that lift, attempt the new Snatch PR. But sometimes, it just doesn't kick it for you.
You may just be well, out of form, then fight another day.
Let it go, let the weight settle itself, come back to own it tomorrow.

There's always the next try, there's always the next fight back.
What matters is that you don't give it all up.
So ditch it, if your back just doesn't feel right.
Ditch it, if you don't feel totally explosive.
Ditch it, if you just don't think that you're gonna survive the day.
Come back to fight another day.
Don't needlessly disappoint yourself, you'll just get angrier.
Walk away with your head held high, cause tomorrow, you're gonna do it.

Have an attitude like that.
Don't rush your progress, don't rush your victories, don't rush GOD.
Everything has it's time and place.
So ditch it if you need to, come back another time.
Give it a try, see if life gets better.
Later, you can jam the accelerator yet again, it'll still be there. Trust me.

CROSS-fit #22 The Box

2011-05-24T22:57:00.001+08:00

It's strange isn't it? Most crossfit boxes have no mirrors, no televisions, no radios.

None of these cosmetics at all, it's simply down and dirty, it's as it is.

A place to work out isn't it? It's not a place for you to watch your favorite Korean drama.

it's just an empty space filled with things that matter, a white board, weights, equipment, people.

Just as it is, this is life, this is reality...

Life isn't sprinkled with many pretty things, it's down and dirty.

It doesn't exactly let you sit back relax and allow you to waste hours away doing useless things...

This is Crossfit, and this is also life.

It doesn't matter, not one bit, how you really 'look' like.

Cause what people perceive you to be will always, always change.

That's one thing about Crossfit, it doesn't train you to look great in the mirror, it trains you to BE great.

So throw it away, throw all that image concerns away, cause really, it's all temporal.

Even our bodies we abide in aren't gonna last forever.

Get down to serious business, no more messing around.

Your cosmetic fitness ain't exactly gonna cut it in the long run, similarly, the facade that we all hold up ain't lasting too. Figures...

If you aren't ready to get down and dirty, then maybe living like a victor just ain't for you.

Realize who you are inside, who you really are.

Then be better, without all them fanciful stuff

CROSS-fit #21 Too easy

2011-05-24T12:52:00.001+08:00

70 ring dips for time?

Thats all for the WOD?? I'm sure anyone can do that, even someone not trained in crossfit.

Ever had such a situation? Where easy was handed to you.

It seems real easy, on the outside... The moment it begins, it's a whole different story.

Don't get ahead of yourself too quickly.

Cause that's when your downfall begins, do the WOD as prescribed. Don't get cocky.

Don't try to handle everyone's burden when you can't even handle your own.

Cause you'll never know what your situation can do to you, may seem easy on the outside but...

Man, it packs a whole lot of pain on the inside...

Watch yourself, pace yourself and have a great attitude towards it.

(Even if it really is easy, do it the best that you can).

You can't be the caretaker of the whole World, nobody expects you to be that.

Of course if people all say you should and even the 'Coach' encourages it, go ahead...

But, don't do that 'extra' needlessly, cause with it, your full potential may not be discovered.

Haters!

2011-05-23T02:24:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Strobe - Deadmau5

Wow, I am surprised, I found my first hater (of CROSS-fit), strangely from one close to me...
Strangely, responses have been great but criticism came based on the reflection of myself.
Well, all I can say is that yes, I know I'm nowhere near perfect.
When I say nowhere near, I really do mean far off, like me and perfection are like planets apart.
Getting there would take more than revamping close to my entire life.
However, these words written on this blog come from my heart.
Living it out personally may be tough on one hand, really...
But the fact is, that these cross my mind, every one of these "reflections" cross my mind during the WOD.
Nowhere else, I believe it's a divine time and if you believe otherwise, it is your lost.

Everything written is based on my own personal experiences.
Nothing is really related to the official Crossfit HQ webpage nor any denomination.
However, they are genuine and they do contain impact, at least to me.
So please, don't begin by judging me or looking at it cynically, cause like what I said...
Everyone is fighting a battle, be kind.
So do support (But yes, I do appreciate constructive criticisms!)
Thanks much!

Friend or Fun

2011-05-21T23:53:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Danza Kuduro - Don Omar

I was posed a real interesting question a few days ago,
"Friend or Fun?"
Seems like the most ridiculous of questions to me but....
It seems that it's true, are we really in it as friends or for fun?
In almost every relationship that we have, are we really in it to be friends? Or just for fun...

I know those whom I treat as friend and those whom I treat as fun.
Nope, don't judge me on that, everyone has some whom they really have just for fun...
Just to pass time, just to be around when things are great and throw away when the going gets tough.
Of course I do treat everyone, I do mean everyone, with utmost respect.
But really, there're those whom I'll look out for and those whom I may just turn a blind eye to.
Not cause I can't be bothered, but really, cause they probably look to me in the exact same way.

Either way, life's been good.
No, no one has offended me of any sorts, it's just something I thought about.
Moving up one notch at a time.
The 30 days will also do some great work in due time.
For now, yet again, I need to retrack the works done from the past week!

CROSS-fit #20 Breathe

2011-05-21T23:44:00.001+08:00

Deep in the WOD, when we're all out to do our best, we often forget to do the most vital of things.
Breathe.
You're so caught up in getting that rope under you, in controlling that 140 pound barbell over your head.
You just place all your concentration on those tasks such that you forget to breathe.
Go ahead, try sprinting all out for 100m, amateur runners would probably get gassed 50m down.

You'll beat yourself if you don't control your breathing.

Here you are, trying so hard to deal damage to the WOD, to the problem, to the devil.
You forget to breathe, so your every lift, every push, every act has NO power.

Breathe, with every movement, every swing, every jump, every prayer, every trial.
It generates so much more power than you'd ever imagine.
If you can't control such a simple task when you're doing some intricate movements, what makes you think you can pull it off against something that can actually fight back?

In the ever elusive strive to be a better person, better athlete, better Christian.
Always remember to breathe, with every new move, with every new step.
It could be prayer, it could be that call to your best friend, it could be that dedication of your life again, maybe simply taking time to appreciate where you've come from.
Make it regular, make it a habit.
Breathe, whatever that may be to you.

CROSS-fit #19 Control your outcome

2011-05-20T23:41:00.001+08:00

It's not just you, everyone has that fight.

No matter what kind, no matter what form, everyone has it one way or another.
A milestone if I may say. Something so big that it means the World.
Some WODs are different, some tests are just different, they mean more than just an accomplishment.
A time to prove, a time to overcome, a tipping point in an athletes life.
Where this simply means success or defeat.
I'm sure everyone knows what that means, maybe not in a tangible manner for everyone, but it's there.

Yeah, sometimes it's easy to walk away, easy to avoid it.
A close friend once told me, "You can't run away from yourself."
The biggest enemy may just be yourself.
Win, lose, maybe it doesn't make a difference, but what matters is that you give it your best shot.
Maybe you're fearful when it comes to certain WODs, certain deals, certain conversations,
but do it, prove it.
This is YOUR fight, everyone has got one.

Well, at times, you're stuck, you're in submission. Moments about to give up.
The WOD simply hits you down hard, you get gassed, you got the heart but no more juice left.
In any fight, you can always change position, you just need to find a way.
Always remember, no matter what happens,

Control the outcome, it's on you, always has been.

Get on top, change your mentality, change your stance, control your game.
Control your fight, don't let it control you.
Control your life, emotions, relationship, don't let it control you.
It has always been on you.

Never Back Down, the movie which inspired this post.

CROSS-fit #18 Finishing

2011-05-19T18:06:00.001+08:00

The spirit of competition, that's something which drives the Crossfit culture as well.
You compete and train with you best friends by your side.
When we do, it get's intense, everyone goes all out to catch the fastest guy around.
it's a natural reflex of athletes, it pushes you more as well.
But ever got a situation where you were right there, in the same pace with him, or even ahead of the top dog.
You were great but towards the end,

You let it go...

You gave that last few meters up to him.
You gave up on that last push and sprint towards the finish line.
You kinda gave up right at the very end.

It's probably perception.
"He's stronger, he's faster, he always wins."
"Life is harder, life is tough to me, and it always gets me down."

Even when you had things in the palm of your hands all the way,
don't let it go to the very end.
Coach K repeats it all the time.
"Run it through! Past the finish line!"
So run it through, run that business, that deal, the boy, girl or fast through.
I mean, imagine Jesus giving it up at the very end....
Finish a winner, cause you do have that potential deep inside. Always had.

Taking a break...

2011-05-19T17:54:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Marry Me - Train

So, this is it....
It begins, something I never really thought I'll do, but I am gonna go ahead with it.
Man, 30 days seem really long.
Haha, hopefully after this duration, I'll be a better man, I'll be worthy.
For now, I am just going to sit back, relax and enjoy every bit of God, life and it's exploits.
When the pain comes, I'll be sure to sound it out.
But for now, right now, I've got one last day to live the past.

CROSS-fit #17 Hope

2011-05-18T02:34:00.002+08:00

"“Don’t hope, friend. Decide.”

We all hope. We hope for the better lift, the better job, the better girlfriend or boyfriend, the better spouse, the better life. The better everything. If we’re lucky, we hope all the time.
But what if you didn’t just hope? What if you decided? And then you kicked a**. Right now.
You can’t lift the barbell with just your mind. You can’t lift your life with just your mind. Get off your posterior chain. Now.
Keep hope in your heart but take action. Seize this life with your hands. Set your goal, set your jaw, execute. There is no turning back.
Kick it into afterburner. Now. It’s later than you think."
*Credits to Crossfit-Lisbeth, taken from her.

CROSS-fit #16 The Fear

2011-05-17T13:04:00.002+08:00

In almost every Crossfit workout or even in track and field or in any sporting event for that matter,
there's always a certain point where you just can't push yourself anymore.
Yeah, you know you can, you know you could've given that extra push alot earlier.
You could've sped up more at that last moment to make your new Personal Best.
However, you just didn't, couldn't. And yeah, it comes back to haunt you time and time again.
I know how that feels, totally...
It isn't really about your physical limits cause you know your body can take it but...
You just couldn't push yourself. It comes back to bite you, you begin to live in regret if I may say.

Well, it's cause at one point of time, we started to get scared, fearful.
Afraid of the pain, we develop that fear and we don't wanna go anywhere near it.
We've lost that fight, however, face it, don't run away.
Be ready to embrace whatever fear that may be for you.
Fear of rejection, fear of failure, fear of what people will label you as, fear of what's on the whiteboard.

We won't go anywhere if we don't face it...
We won't be hitting new times in Cindy or Karen if we ain't ready to face that fear of pain, suck and failure.
We won't be getting that new job if we ain't ready to face that fear of rejection, disappointment.
We won't be getting that breakthrough if we ain't ready to face that fear of uncertainty...
Face it, Fight it and don't shun away when it starts to prick a little, if definitely will.
When you do get over it, you're on the greener side of life.

CROSS-fit #15 Trigger Point

2011-05-17T02:18:00.000+08:00

Everyone has that soft point, where the sore comes in. It differs from person to person.
It's what we call, the trigger point.
Personally, it's right smack at the shoulders and some point near the hip area.
Squeezing it or applying pressure will cause IMMENSE pain but the effect is long lasting and the good stuff comes in.
For others, it may be the area near the back, hamstring or some other place.
Either way, it's really important to find that trigger point and apply pressure to it.

Of course it hurts, of course it'll be alot of endurance but the benefits reaped are much greater.
Squeezing those trigger points cause people to lose their mind at times, cause the pain may really be too much to bear.
Sometimes you just need someone to hold you down, telling you that it's for your own good.

Or simply count down the seconds with you...
So what's YOUR trigger point?

Greed? Lust? Laziness? Or simply the compulsion to lie?
Squeeze it, get them knots out, cause from then on, your body becomes stronger...
Your body becomes healthier and yupp, that's when the fun part begins.

CROSS-fit #14 The Difference

2011-05-16T01:08:00.001+08:00

Ever wondered what's the difference between crossfit and well any other typical gym?

In a typical gym you walk around feeling like the boss, like you're looking amazing.
You hit the bench press, punching out some good reps and some bad but who cares...
You start roaring to get some attention and eventually you get that 'pump'.
Once in a while, you take a break, stroll around talking to other gymmers, laughing at those running on the threadmill, always talking and having a conversation, in front of the mirror.
The aircon is just right, giving just enough air for my comfortable gym.
Best thing yet, no down and dirty stuff, no one to tell me that I've got a problem with my form.
Eventually, I leave feeling like I've done lots of work, look into the mirror and leave alone.

In crossfit, the story goes goes just a little differently.
You walk in feeling like you're gonna go through some huge amounts of pain.
The sign at the entrance which says "We don't use machines, we make them", doesn't exactly make you feel a whole lot better, your ego is left at the door. Walking in, the people around you are incredibly huge but strangely approach you to greet you.
You begin to hit the pull up bar but is quickly stopped by the coach or senior athletes, it's warm up time.
The WOD begins, you think that roaring will get you attention but nobody cares, but strangely, everyone else is roaring FOR YOU! Telling you to push it harder, go faster!
After the WOD, you take a break, stroll around, talk to other athletes whom all think everyone did an amazing job. No one is laughing at nobody.
Best thing yet, there're no mirrors except the one in the washroom. No aircon, just the fan, no cosmetics required, everything here is real, everything here is in the community.
The discussion continues and a second WOD begins, totally down and dirty stuff, you end that with your white shirt literally looking black cause you collapse on the ground. You've learnt a great deal about yourself and about everyone in the room.
Eventually you leave KNOWING you've done the best you can. You look at your palms and leave, with friends by your side, every single time...

How would you like your church, cell group, connect group to be like?
The similarities and differences are obvious.
[1 Corinthians 12:12]
Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.

countdown to the 30

2011-05-15T13:59:00.001+08:00

Listening to : Transatlanticism - Death Cab For Cutie

It's been a while, waking up with a light heart.
I suppose yesterday really made things easy, made things clear.
That his burden is light. Really light if I may add...

I've got from now till Friday, 6 full days to do all that I can.
To make full use of it, to make my point before the 30 days begin.
I can't waste it, not a second of it, I so need to know how this is going to go down.
I need hope for the Sabbatical. Yeah, God will provide, I know...
I'm sure we will all come forth stronger at the end of it.
Either stronger or more broken than ever.

So yes, I was reminded of a simple phrase Yulin said months back.
"Be kind, for everyone else is fighting a harder battle."
I can't exactly say that I've been totally independent, but I will say that many have been along side me.
And I really really am grateful, to every single one of you.
For every bit of advise, encouragement, smile and simply listening to painful Lionel.
For now, I wanna be kind, cause there're others who'll need my help, cause they're fighting a harder battle.

CROSS-fit #13 "But God"

2011-05-15T02:16:00.002+08:00

It's always a constant fear, a constant nudging thought in your mind that...

"You can't do it, can you? It's a deadlift PR by a huge margin, no way you can do it"

"It's an RX workout, first time you're doing it and you think you can finish it?"

I guess we all have that stigma in our heads that can't exactly be removed with simple thought.

However, sometimes we just need to be convinced, that somehow yes you can.

This is an extremely heavy weight, something you've never done before, BUT You can do it.

Taking it even further, sometimes convincing yourself with the facts in your face can be really tough.

You've had a back injury, you can never lift anything over head ever again.

Are you going to listen to that? Or listen to your heart? Or listen even to God?

Life will hit you down over and over again, BUT GOD will pick you up.

Look at your life, yeah look at it now...

Does it kick it for you? Or is it really... In a mess.

But hey, the weight might be something you've never done before... BUT GOD will save your day.

Life is no where near a bed of roses.

It's sprinkled with lots and lots of pain, heartbreaks and big time disappointments.

But hold fast to your Faith, give it a shot, don't hold back on your effort.

You'll never know what you can do...

With that "BUT GOD" trigger in your spirit.

Even the smallest of potentials can do amazing things.

Double Single

2011-05-14T13:24:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Somewhere only we know - Glee

I'm coming across really bluntly this time round, coming across with a resolve as well.
That this double life has to go.
Nobody can love a messed up man, or a man who has 2 totally different lives.
It's time to settle it once and for all, all or nothing.
Guess I've been trying to merge the 2 extremities but it hasn't been working.
Yeah, there's only one way to it, killing one altogether.
I'm not too sure what can/would possibly happen.
However, I've come to realize that my simple actions are no longer my own.
They have way too much implications and that is a cause for worry to me.

Before anything at all, before chasing my dreams, before looking at another even.
I've got to fix this up, I've got to be the one Lionel that God wants me to be.
This 30 days would be a tough one for me.
But definitely a necessary one as well.
Wait and see what can happen, I just hope that the outcome isn't one which is undesired.
Help me out in this alright?
On hindsight, memories were great. They were all really great. :)

CROSS-fit #12 Focus

2011-05-14T04:54:00.000+08:00

Slapped on the 35# plate, attempting a relatively easy lift.

Power Snatch at 120 pounds. Honestly, very easy weight, Got into my stance, settled down.

Lifted with power but just didn't seem to get it in my first few tries.

"This is light! It's supposed to really be easy!"

Doing the easy stuff, doing them boring basics may seem easy, but at times, it can seem like the World to you.

Coach K provided a simple explanation to this.

"It's simple, you're just not focused, something is distracting you, something is bothering you."

"What is it? Get it out or get injured."

Words like these were strong, but true to me that day, and to everyone else in life.

Distractions can always come in many forms,

but it's like a leech, sucking the life force out of you, causing your every action to be hindered and confused.

Get that distraction out, cause if you're not focused, your form breaks, your lift is wrong and there goes your shoulder.

Injuries thrive in distracted athletes.

Downfalls thrive in distracted Christians.

Get focused on the RIGHT things, on GOD.

Don't hide it away and pretend you got it under control, face the facts.

Man up and tell yourself, this is a distraction, this has to go.

CROSS-fit #11 Alone

2011-05-14T02:20:00.000+08:00

Sometimes it's true, no matter what anyone says, we're always alone.
Yeah, you've got your friends, family but at the end of the day, when the dark of the night howls over you...
You're really alone aren't you?
Wondering if you can continue on, wondering if whatever you're doing will succeed.
Wondering if well, God is real or not?
You begin to doubt, everyone has those times. Everyone experiences them, some more occasional than others of course. No one can truly run away from these nudging thoughts can they?

Guess doing a WOD in Crossfit, the community is always there to cheer you on.
But really, you're alone.
Nobody is going to punch those pull ups for you, nobody is squating those weights for you.
No matter what they say, no matter how much they say..
"I understand what you're going through" or "I'm doing it with you."
Really, you're on your own. Fighting yourself.
It always has been this way, it's you, yourself, God and them obstacles in life.

Sometimes it's the hard reality which sucks, guess this is just one of the many..
But we're stronger cause of it.
As much as we are dependent on others, we're stronger cause of being alone.
Nobody forges elite fitness by getting another to train for you.
Stop staring at it, stop whining, stop saying that cause you're alone, you can't.
Yes, You Can.
Tell yourself that whenever such doubts creep up, cause it's the only way to remain being who you are.
It's the only way to be more than a conqueror.

Past erased

2011-05-14T01:38:00.001+08:00

Listening to : Letters from the sky - Civil Twilight

As you can see, a new blogskin, a new outlook.
Hopefully that this will bring a good change.
A better perspective of Lionel as well as boosting that segment f CROSS-fit.
Mashing what I love, Crossfit with what I live for, GOD.

Also, I'm partially glad that somehow, one way or another.
Blogger messed up, erasing all posts after Thursday morning.
Guess it meant that certain things just weren't meant to be said publicly like that?
I know that this is a blog and shouldn't be highly commercialized to a certain extent.
I wouldn't want CROSS-fit to really take over this blog entirely, of course it plays a big role but...
The last thing I would want is for it to become all of me. Nah, I still want to be human.
Guess the blabber posts were definitely not required and shouldn't be present.
But either way, being emo has never been more real to me than this year.
I've learned how to feel, reflect, think, maybe even too much.
Don't exactly think that it's a very bad thing but, it keeps me aware of myself.

However, if it's anything at all, Pursuing what isn't yours or what isn't meant to be yours...
Is really futile effort ain't it?
Right now, I'm chasing a dream, a desire, but I'm unsure, uncertain.
Of course the many romantic and thought provoking movies ain't helping.
(How about Gnomeo and Juliet is thought provoking, how sissy can I get right?)
Ultimately, the choice isn't mine, it's God's isn't it?
He directs, I act. Just that sometimes, freestyling always seem to be a better option.
If I could just Peek into destiny...

*This is such a cliche line I just HAD to put it up!

CROSS-fit #10 Something more

2011-05-11T12:11:00.001+08:00

Ever got that feeling, that whatever you're doing is something more that what it seems?
No matter how small, no matter how self serving it is, you're actually part of a bigger purpose?
Yeah, that's the thing, find that, and don't stop.
Cause no matter how small it is, it will eventually amount to something amazing.

Nothing in the WOD is noticeably going to change you the moment you finish.
You're not going to be instantly stronger, you're not gonna be the fastest guy after 10 minutes.
It takes time, but sometimes you just don't see it, you don't see that bigger picture.
That it'll take time.
That it's part of a bigger purpose.

No matter how small, insignificant your talents, task, job is....
They're all there, all there to be there FOR you.

The best aren't built in staged limelights, but in the back where there is barely any light at all.
You were made to be big, but built up in small parts.
Never let anyone put that down.
The mustard seed was small, but even that, can move mountains.

Mayyy

2011-05-09T14:54:00.000+08:00

Listening to : Beauty in the World - Macy Gray

I have got to get my butt moving, get my mind engaged with something.
Can't seem to stay slacking around doing nothing.
I am literally rotting deep down inside.
Sometimes I even wish that I could just push my reservist forward and make my June less packed.
Yeah, among the 3 months, June is going to be one mad month.
(Nothing compared to that of the exam week of course)
Loud Camp
Higher Conference
Reservist
Level 1
Man, it's gonna be an exciting month if I may add.
Right now, I'm just taking it easy. Getting my miscellaneous chores done.
Guess the month of May will be getting back in full steam of crossfit and also getting used to random sports.
Not forgetting the many chill out sessions I'm waiting to have with YOU!
Yeah, you. Reading this right now. I need to catch up with all of you!

CROSS-fit #9 Rehab

2011-05-09T03:39:00.001+08:00

I know, nobody likes to do it, nobody likes to even think about it.

Rehab.

The continuous motions of back-to-basic exercises to strengthen to weakened area.

To devote time and effort doing something which is utterly boring to get you back in shape after an injury.

It really is a big pain, I for one really hate it.

It isn't fun, isn't engaging, when everyone is out there having fun, doing the WOD, you're at the corner, stretching, doing repetitive empty bar deadlifts.

Injuries, the one thing which kills and athletes spirit and heart more than anything else.

However, what's important is that we DO THE REHAB.

Often, once injured, we give up on hope, we give in to laziness.

"Hey since I'm out of action, maybe I should really be out of action, maybe I should just sit back and relax".
Well, any seasoned athlete knows that that's the the last thing to do.

Yeah, it's boring, it's back to basics.
But sometimes, those are the simple things which make life better for you.
What's the rehab that you need?
Prayer? The Word? Or simply a break?
Come on, everyone goes through this, you aren't alone. Never will be...

CROSS-fit #8 Intensity vs Form

2011-05-07T01:20:00.004+08:00

The most hated of all WODs has got to be the heavy metcon.

Lifting something really heavy but being tasked to do some metabolic conditioning at the same time. My goodness, I really do hate those. (ie. Thrusters and a 400m run OMG)

However, there're times where I question Coach, something which seems so simple..

"Coach, why aren't some of the beginners doing something heavier?"

The reply was simple.

"When you first started out, did you go heavy one bit? The focus is form."

Ever had that instance, where you so wanted something real badly but...

The answer was just simply, "not yet".

When we want a bigger challenge, a bigger cellgroup, connect group, team or organization.

We want it now! But sometimes, "not yet".

No, it isn't wrong to desire things like these, it isn't wrong to want to expand your capacity.

But there's a time and place for everything.

God knows when that may be, literally.

The focus is form, sometimes we just ain't ready for those challenges.

Cause you'll never know, going heavy too early can cause you to split your back.

Lifting something you aren't ready for is simply a recipe for an injury.

So work on your form. Work on it daily, work on it....

Notice how it's WORK. Yeah, it takes practice.

You're not gonna get better form by simply sitting there flipping channels on your tv.

It takes painstaking hours and hours of training, getting your body used to that position.

Soon enough, your 'Coach' will give you the go-ahead.

When you're ready...

Till then, don't be shy about it, get help, be the help. Work on it.

CROSS-fit #7 Heart matters

2011-05-06T01:30:00.008+08:00

This is a simple truth, probably going to surprise some of you fellas out there.

Big secret all of you really need to know...

It's true, NOT EVERYONE SUCCEEDS IN EVERYTHING THEY DO.

Surprised? Well, that's really how some view life.

In work, in school, in crossfit. They must be the best, they must succeed.

However, does it really matter... Does it really matter if you're the best, the top dog...

Or is it more important to look around and notice how many people are still with you.

Little Wonders.

Life is hard, don't make it harder by forcing yourself to be better than the rest.

Sometimes in the WOD, you're never anywhere near the fastest nor the strongest.

Putting on an added weight, taking up a challenge and fighting for it.

"Lionel, put on the 5kg vest, yes put it on if not don't do the workout." Coach said.

The WOD was tough enough for me, so tough I already had doubts of its completion.

However, donning it made it even worst, I literally couldn't breathe half the time.

It was tight restrictive and I really didn't know if I would be able to finish with it.

Sounds like life doesn't it? Like how we're all tied down, tired out by all the extra weight.

True enough, I didn't finish the workout, I didn't meet the time limit.

2 reactions were natural and almost immediate.

"I didn't finish it, I failed and man, I doubt I'll try again. Cause I'm gonna keep failing."

"I didn't finish it, I failed and man, I'm so going to try again."

It's the attitude in the

trial that counts. - Pst Kong.

What matters is the heart, what matters is that I gave my all, I gave my best.

Heart Matters.

Cause it's life, we don't succeed in everything we do.

We don't come forth as gold every single time, we simply don't.

But what matters is that we give it out best, every single time.

No, I'm not celebrating mediocrity of sorts.

Even if you're the best, what matters is still the attitude.

Cause someday, someone out there is gonna be better than you.

Yeah, there're about 4 billion people in the World. That's alot of competition if you ask me...

Success and happiness ain't determined by your ranks, wealth cause you'll never get there.

Instead, look around, be happy with what you have, with the effort you gave.

So throw that ego away...

You don't need it,

get humble,

get broken.

Admit your weaknesses,

failures and pick that weight up!

Cause everytime you do, you're becoming a better person.

*Josh Everett. (Man in photo)

Competed in the Crossfit Games and was gunning for the second place.

Before that, he was already physically spent in the initial rounds. He had ran so hard, towards the end, his body gave up on him. His muscles were so fatigued they will not function. He was devastated. But still, he competed, he fought on.

Somehow he made it to the last event, where it was the deadlift (Picture below) to champ another. In his last attempt, he was to lift a weight which was a good 30-40 pounds higher than his Personal Best. Everyone had thought that no way in hell could he lift it.

He walked up, stomped his feet, roared, grabbed the bar, shook it like is was feather weight.

Took a deep breathe and lifted! for that first 5 seconds, it didn't move off the ground.

Everyone was cheering, even his competitors were.

But no, it didn't move one bit... He walked off, but was met with a standing ovation.

In his own words, "It was the effort which counted. To give my best and to have people honor that, that's what matters."

So the summer begins

2011-05-04T00:39:00.002+08:00

Listening to : Somewhere only we know - Lifehouse

So it has finally started, the long awaited summer holidays.

I can't say I'm extremely ecstatic about it.

Guess probably cause of two simple reasons,

the holiday mood kind of set in slightly prematurely sometime about a week back.

Also, well, the semester hasn't been great on a whole, I'm just a little afraid of how things will be.

Especially in this coming long holiday....

I wouldn't wanna slip back into a lost limbo.

Trying to compound my activities one after another.

Though I do know that it isn't going to be the best solution, guess this will do.

To probably stop me from letting my mind go wild again.

I've probably learnt alot this semester, much needs to be reflected upon.

More importantly, much work needs to be done in preparation for the next one.

In the mean time, at least for this week.

Let me indulge in a time of pure laziness.

*Reminded of a great song today,

"So tell me when you're gonna let me in,

I'm getting tired and need somewhere to begin"

- Keane

CROSS-fit #6 Get it Overhead

2011-05-02T21:43:00.004+08:00

Fear is a crippling force, renders you helpless towards the devourer.

When you're afraid of something, it defines you. You lose control of your situation you were meant to be the boss of. Often, we miss the tipping point in life due to fear.

The Overhead Squat or the Snatch, pretty much the toughest lifting movement in Crossfit is deemed to be extremely demanding in terms of balance, strength, power and focus.

A slight tinge of fear of that bar going above your head and it's Game Over for you.

Any form of hesitation whatsoever will render you a failure, even worse, injure yourself and ruin your life as an athlete.

When it comes to conquering it, many beginners fear the bar, they're afraid of getting it overhead. The trick is easy, in order to get it above you, you need to drop under it to catch it.

Seldom do we see people simply muscling it all the way up.

Dealing with your problems can be tough, seldom can you rely on simple determination to pass it by, you're gonna need to get under it and face it upfront.

No point running away, no...

Get under it, dare to do so.

However, when a seasoned athlete comes over, it becomes a routine for him.

Constant opposition leads to resilience.

Keep practicing practicing and practicing.

Only then can we get better at it, only then will these become routine.

In the workout, that barbell will not care who you are, it will not care at all.

It doesn't matter if you've been training for 10 years.

It doesn't care if it's in the Crossfit Games or if it's in a simple training session.

It doesn't bother if the fella is sick or all ready to conquer it.

What that simple barbell cares about is whether YOU can lift it.

Your trials may be tough, you may be whining about how you've been through enough.

Guess what, them trials don't care one bit.

What matters is you Get it overhead.

Get used to the weight, get used to the burden and strive to go for more and more each time.

Ditch fear, ditch hesitation cause it won't do you no good when it comes to getting it over you.

The weight of the World may be resting on your shoulders right this moment, but...

Get it overhead.

Only then will you be able to aptly send it up to God.

Bear that burden, whatever it may be, burden of your family, friends even in ministry.

Get under the weight, get it overhead you.

Leave fear behind, leave hesitation.

Do what you never thought you can and lift it Higher!

CROSS-fit #5 The strangest setting

2011-05-02T02:45:00.006+08:00

Adversity introduces a man to himself - Pst Kong

They say that when you're in the brink of death, you see your life fly by you.

When you're moments away from kicking the bucket, you somehow see angels all around.

Maybe that's why they say, meet your maker...

Perhaps it isn't too far away a setting, that at crucial moments, you meet yourself, you meet GOD, in the unlikeliest of circumstances.

I clearly remember the Friday night, a couple of weeks back.

Didn't do any WOD the past few days and thus decided to hit 'Angie'.

Guess it wasn't too smart of me to do that without anyone around me at 2 am at night...

By the time it ended, I was really wasted/smashed.

I didn't have the strength to stand up, didn't have the strength to lift my hands.

I swear I thought I was going to die. (puking was an option I had already

taken)

I was laying flat on the floor with my eyes towards the night sky.

Strangely, really strangely. It was there and then, I am so positively sure I met God.

(No I wasn't hallucinating)

As you would probably have guessed, I wasn't having too much of a fantastic day.

And it was assuring to hear him say,

Look at the stars, every single one of them, a promise for you.

You are more than this.

We all face times of pure distress, we all face times of real ridicule and 'near-death' situations.

But it's in these times, we are closest to him.

Everytime I hit the WOD, we all push our limits, sometimes beyond what we can possibly do.

Sometimes even beyond that threshold. Then we come to a point where there's nothing more...

Where all that we have left is not our might, but his...

In the strangest of settings, comes the deepest of truths.

We all go through such situations, where we come to an end of ourselves in life.

Don't let it slip away...

But keep calling out for strength.

Cause the outcome is simply magical...

CROSS-fit #4 True to yourself

2011-05-01T02:11:00.005+08:00

There's always a simple saying.

You can lie to everyone, your friends, your family, your closest companions, but you can't lie to yourself, you can't lie to God.

Be true to yourself.

Cause that's what matters at the end of your journey. Be it in life, be it in the WOD.

Cheating in the WOD, is just like cheating on yourself, you may be at the top of the table.

The fastest, strongest guy around. But really, who are you kidding?

At the end of the day, Crossfit isn't about competition in a sense. It isn't about how much you can beat the other guy by, to be the top dog in the box.

Yeah, competition is good and all but...

What constitutes victory isn't triumph over others, but over yourself.

Be who you truly are, not someone else, don't be so full of pretense.

Contrary to Shakespeare's belief, life isn't always a stage and we aren't always actors.

But be who you are, and be proud of it.

God loves you just the way you are, right now.

Stand tall.

Know who you are, you don't need to fake it one bit.

You're an overcomer, you're more than a conqueror, you're anointed, you're strong inside and out, you're an energy pack ready to explode, you're you.

You'll never know, being you may just give others that extra push to be more than themselves.

Mental Picture of You

2011-05-01T02:00:00.003+08:00

Listenting to : Good Life - One Republic

I totally know I shouldn't exclaim it out loud on avenues such as this...

But I do think of things way beyond my own capacity.

I admit that I dream dreams which are honestly way beyond my reach.

However, I love embracing hope and seeing them come to pass.

Even better, making them come to pass.

Certain things may seem impossible.

But this chase in life isn't. This chase isn't a waste.

If only the night of the 6th didn't happen, or differently in manner.

It would've been the good life.

CROSS-fit #3 Looking Up

2011-04-30T00:24:00.004+08:00

Ever had instances in your life where things just SUCKED.

Like everything around you seems to be falling apart.

You can't seem to be proud of anything in your life and desires/passions simply leave your spirit.

Wherever you go, life just seems to be another slump.

It's human nature, when people get tired, they look down.

In the WOD, when you've spent almost all the energy you've got inside of you...

Their hands go to their knees, some even collapse and they all look down.

Maybe there're some biological reasons to that but to me, that's a clear sign of,

"I'm extremely down and out, I'm looking down, I need a long break".

Strangely, in the WOD, don't keep looking down.

Don't look down at the weights, they'll just discourage you, throw you off balance.

Don't look down at the puddle of sweat accumulating cause you've got a whole lot more in that tank of yours.

Don't look down upon yourself, cause You can do it, You were made to succeed.

Look up, look ahead, look forward.

(Apart from the real effects of opening your lungs and helps you breathe easier)

Sum up that courage inside of you. Being in self pity won't help you one bit.

Nobody is going to pick it up for you, telling yourself you can't, won't help at all.

Look up, be strong, be courageous.

"For God didn't give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind."

When you're in the gutter, when you can't hold on no longer.

Don't look down for comfort, look up for strength.

Ps. Amazing effort from Camille today. Inspiring.

GE

2011-04-29T23:26:00.003+08:00

Listening to : Turn Me On - Bruno Mars

I'm tired, I can't seem to study and that isn't pleasing at all.

Went to watch the rally today and well, was quite impressed to a certain extent.

But after a bit of thinking, I guess I need to weigh the claims made by the other parties as well.

For now, I'm quite at a standstill.

Gonna figure out my exams and all first, one more paper....

How irritating can this get!

Holiday plans are already underway, looking forward to summer!

On another note, I realized that in the past few months/years.

I've gotten really slack on one simple aspect of life.

Self-monitoring.

Gone were the days where I'll really spend time at night reflecting on how the day was.

What I could or could not have done to actually make it better.

How I'll be a better person tomorrow.

Whether I wasted time and could've spent it on something better.

Conversely, instead of self-monitoring, I've stepped up my emo level the past few months.

I've become subject to this sad reality of being 'human'.

I thought I was over that, that I was strong enough to hide emotions and move on aptly.

However, guess I'm not totally superman after all.

We all have weaknesses.

I just hope we don't have them exploited.