Whether it's swimming or snowboarding, half-pipe or hurdles, there's just something about the camaraderie and uplifting nature of the Olympic games that makes me feel so hopeful and happy.  Ya know?

Sure, there are disappointments and setbacks, and the pressure is absolutely ON for these athletes, but there are stories of struggle and triumph that are inspiring...and that's just what I think we all need right about now.

One of the reasons I think the Games resonate with me so much is because (for the most part), it reminds me that in a world where you can pay for followers, filter your face and watch so much negativity surround you - they represent the way it "should be".  

What I mean is that if you focus, dedicate yourself and work hard to become the very best version of yourself you can be, you can indeed be rewarded.  But there are no guarantees or short-cuts on that path.  There are years before a glimmer of payoff is seen.  No instant gratification....

This isn't the first time someone has said "enough".  Sadly, it may not be the last.  But here we are again.  

I usually don't chime in too much on political or otherwise charged issues - though those who know me know I've got an opinion for sure!

And I know that when things outside of us become overwhelming, the knee-jerk response may be to act outwards - to fix - to change - to perhaps get angry - and just say, "enough is enough is enough already".  I'm not saying those aren't all valid and sometimes very helpful responses.  Certainly, I have found myself feeling all of those things at various times throughout my life, and especially have been challenged with them recently.  

But immediately I shift focus, and know that even if outside happenings and circumstances are maddening, I must look inside to not only handle my feelings, but also react responsibly and get to a place where I can contribute in a positive way.  

Today the song "Man in...

I'll level with you.  It was just this past year that I was most recently scolded by my mother.  Folks, I'm in my 30's.  Tough love.  Sometimes though, we just need a reminder from those who know and love us.  

You may be asking: 'And what the heck did you do?!'  Well.  I'll tell you.

I'm the kind of person who wants to help in any way I can, every way I can.  I say 'yes' too much (though I'm getting way better at that), and believe in the benefit of the doubt, and want to embrace second chances.  This particular time though, I said 'yes' without fully considering the consequences I would take on.  

Now sure, sometimes you do a thing just for the simple reason of being self-less, and it's important to be of service.  But this wasn't that - this was me putting myself in an unhealthy situation for the benefit of the "what if".  I did it because I was curious; because I wanted to believe things could be different this time....