Omayra Acevedo, Peak to Peak. It’s Tuesday, December 31, 2019. It’s New Year’s Eve and I sit at the computer in my home at almost 9200 feet above sea level. I’m not one that believes one should wait for a number to change (2019 to 2020) before setting goals, resolutions or working on my dreams. For me, the moment is now. Whether that means it is January, May, August or November, it’s never too late or early to focus on the things that are truly good for you. Still, I reflect on everything I have been through this past year.

I’ll admit that it has been a very bumpy road. Yet, I find myself unbelievably grateful for my experiences. I’m a strong believer that everything we experience can be a learning and growing experience, but if and only if we allow them to be. It’s one of many reasons I embrace all of life’s challenges. No, it is never easy. It does take practice, patience and compassion – especially, toward oneself. Nonetheless, it is always healthier, more comforting and peaceful to turn situations into positive ones.

This morning, as I started my first set of lat pull downs at the gym and felt my latissimus dorsi, biceps and forearms burn with sensation, I accepted the fact that it felt exactly like 2019 has felt. One hundred and eight pounds of weight being pulled down towards my chest. I trembled and even doubted myself, yet I got through a total of four sets and 32 repetitions. A few weeks ago, I was at 72 pounds.  

I was proud, but more than anything, it reminded me that I am always capable of more than I give myself credit for. We all are. Remember that the next time you are faced with a challenge in life. No matter if that challenge is physical, mental, financial or emotional. You’ve got this! Just trust and believe in yourself. Staying positive will get you through so much.

I spent 90 minutes at the gym this morning. I can’t tell you the number of times I wanted to give up and just go home. I work a lot and the thought that I had the following two days off kept dancing on my mind. I was excited to just have some time to rest. I knew however, I’d regret giving up and not finishing. I kept thinking about the many benefits of exercising. Yes, it’s great for your body, but also your mind, mood and spirit.  

Please don’t misunderstand me. I can wrap my head around the fact that we all have our own ways of creating focus and making decisions. It’s just that I don’t like to procrastinate, waste time or make excuses. Let me make myself clear: It never matters when you start to become a better version of yourself. The point is that you begin. So, when you feel like quitting, just remember why you started.

(Originally published in the January 9, 2020, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)