You only have one body. But, you also only live once.

So, live in the present or think rationally and be concerned about ....

the future?

The more events I do, the crazier they seem to become. It all started with a 5K many, many years ago and now has led me to the point of trying to run the Leadville100; 100 miles of trail running through the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. I have done more 10K's than I can recall and the marathons are starting to add up in much the same way. I have raced mountain bikes for several years, raced up Pikes Peak (and back down), took on my biggest fear, swimming, not just once, but many times and have raced through fire, mud and other obstacles that just don't seem smart to run through. As each race becomes more and more difficult because of the terrain or because of my determination to always improve and have a faster time than my last race, the more I hear people tell me to be careful with the body that I have been given.

"You only have one body. Be smart"

It's kind of funny and maybe a bit revealing of who we are and where we are in life, but everyone over my age is concerned. They are concerned for me and my body. Afraid I am going to cause some sort of permanent damage. Afraid the wear and tear will cause issues down the road. Maybe just afraid.

On the other hand, no one under my age has told me to think twice. Live life to the fullest they say. You are crazy for attempting these races, but go for it! They have much less concern about and fear of the future and what lasting effects these races may have on me. So, this brought me to the debate of:

Should you be cautious with the one body you have been given and hope for a better quality of life down the road or should you live life to the fullest and only be concerned about the present?


Take a moment to comment and more to come.....