It’s Saturday. I walked the dog, had a good workout, and spent over 5 hours trimming the Oleanders, blowing leaves, cutting and fertilizing my grass (yes, we have grass this time of year). I have been so busy at work (I’m grateful), that I had neglected my household chores for a couple of weeks. It felt so good to be outside, and getting my hands dirty, climbing up and down the ladder numerous times. At present, I am so physically fatigued in such a good way, I couldn’t help but think how fortunate I am to be able to do what I did today. Exercising and being in shape allows me to do those tasks. It was about 6 years ago I was in the midst of some serious medical issues, and what I did today would have been unthinkable. I had been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylosis (AS) and ulcerative colitis (UC) within a short span, and felt like I had one foot in the grave. I was miserable, had no energy, felt sorry for myself, and was ready to throw in the towel. Fortunately, I regrouped, changed my diet, made exercise one of the most important things in my day, and today I am a different man. I have had no UC flare-ups in 2 years, my AS seems under control, and I have energy to boot. More importantly, I have my mojo back. Exercise and diet has given me options. I could have subbed out the jobs, but I didn’t have to, and that’s my point today. Being fit not only helps you feel better, it gives you options in life. Isn’t that what life’s all about? Try it, you’ll like it.
Stay well, John R Blilie, M.S.