Due to a minor injury, my time in the gym and on the mats has been limited this month, resulting in the opportunity to spend time with people who mean a lot to me. To the wise, there is always a lesson to be learned from the company of those whom we are blessed to be accompanied by.
That Highway 40 ride to those mystical Blue Ridge Mountains is one of my favorite trips to take. This time, it was with the hope of rekindling an extinguished spark. After three great days with her hazel eyes, I remembered my oath to myself: if I’m ever in this position again, I will speak from the heart, which I did. Resulting in letting go, and though she was a fight that didn’t want to be fought for, I left those mountains a man of my word and strengthened my dignity.
Having to let go of someone with good intentions because two people’s values are not compatible can be a vehement task, especially when it’s a heart you still care about; however, it is necessary. It is necessary for growth and solidifying your foundation as a man trying to navigate the challenges of finding a heart that chooses your fight. I say fight because if you care for anything in this world, you have to fight for it, but only if it’s a reciprocated fight.
Shortly after returning to blue waters, a brother came to spend some time alongside his better half here on the Crystal Coast. From waking up before dawn to go to the beach to cast some lines while watching that sunrise, to hitting the water to catch two sets of jaws, and veracious conversations, my time with him was not only needed but a memorable experience. Reflecting on my adventure during his time here solidified the sense of belonging for both him and I.
These days, people are lacking an authentic sense and putting on a facade to either fit in or be liked. If one continues to do so, they begin to fool themselves. Being someone who goes against their own beliefs, values, and word, just to acclimatize to a particular environment that they probably should not even be in, is trekking a doomed path with no regard for one’s dignity or one’s sense of self.
The greatest thing a man can do for himself is keep his oaths and stand by his own trial and not by what others say. If you do that and when timing is in your favor, the right folk and kin will stand by your side.
Peyton.
