Free to Fly

"Some people regard discipline as a chore. For me, it is a kind of order that sets me free to fly."

What is discipline to you? Is it a chore? Is it something that you could never imagine succeeding at? Is it an opportunity? What about a gift? Do you know whose said those words up there? It was Julie Andrews, one of the most successful actresses in the entire business. She could be the queen of entertainment- not just of Genovia! lol

Where I'm from many people just settle with the world they've grown up in and don't try to make something better of it or strive for something more. Many people today just expect things, like opportunities for example, to be handed to them on a silver platter. That is not how life actually is though. One of my closest friends and I were talking the other day about school and work. People want to succeed but they do not try to by even doing the simplest thing as going to class or doing the work, but in the future they expect to have the best opportunities. It baffles my friend and I. Discipline in little areas allows us to apply discipline to the larger areas in our lives which grants us success. It's practice for other areas of our lives as well. Discipline makes us free. Free to fly and reach our fullest potentials.

"Somewhere right now, someone is training for the next Olympic games. Can you imagine an Olympic athlete asking herself, 'What is the lest I can do and still win the gold medal?' Champions don't take shortcuts. Champions give everything they have to training, preparation, and competition. That is what makes them champions. On the day of competitions, the day that really counts, every shortcut taken in training comes to haunt the athlete," states Matthew Kelly in his book, "The Rhythm of Life." Which if you haven't read any of his work, he's an absolute genius and his books are easy reads! He makes a really great point here though, and it doesn't even have to be about the Olympics or any sport for that matter. Insert whatever suits you into the spot where "Olympics" or "athlete" is. What situations are you preparing for? College, careers, vocations, better health, everyday life choices? The list is endless! If one is not disciplined then there is no way that one can fully apply themselves to the tasks of life or even be prepared for them.

Discipline helps us to rid ourselves of things that hold us back. Usually things we choose to do which actually hinder ourselves and our goals. That's what Julie Andrews meant when she said it sets her free. Without discipline, she never would have reached the success that she has today or probably would not have even had the opportunity to try it. Discipline made her live life to the fullest and gave her the opportunity to reach her fullest potential. What goals do you have? How are you trying to achieve them right now? Are you preparing for them and the trials you'll go through to reach those goals?

Love and warm wishes!
Also may the people of Japan be in our prayers in this, their hour of need.