Cold Turkey

Sorry, this post isn't about the temperature of lunch meat. I was trying to think outside of the (lunch) box for this one but I'm glad I caught your attention. This weekend I was able to spend most of my time with family, a little time with friends, and 10 seconds with Gavin Degraw. Seriously though, I got to meet Gavin Degraw and watch him set the city on fire in concert. I have a picture to prove it (or else it didn't happen am I right?). But, my two hour and eight minute journey to the middle of no where is always worth the drive and gas. I'm lucky to have a wonderful place to call home.

Not only was I traveling to my little town, but family from all over the country was traveling as well in spite of my grandpa's wake and funeral. Funny how sad moments are the ones that bring family and friends closer together. Despite the heartbreaking circumstances, there was a piece of joy celebrating a life that went too soon. I learned a lot about myself this weekend and from my family members. It's quite simple the equation of life that got them where they are today and it has inspired me even more. They quit cold turkey.

No, they did not become vegetarians. They quit something that made them unhappy or got in the way of their dreams. To some, quitting is losing, but to them, quitting can result in a win. For example:

1. My uncle quit his dream job in the army because it was taking too much time away from his family. It took him one day to decide and to make a choice where the end result was more memories with his loved ones and he never looked back.

2. About a year before my grandpa passed away, he was told he had pre-diabetes. This lead to him quitting his previous unhealthy eating habits and and instantly made the changes to become healthier to live a longer life for his loved ones. Seriously he didn't even eat may grandma's sweets and baked goods - talk about commitment.

3. I even found out one of my distant family members one day quit his drinking addiction completely and decided to live his life off the grid up north - no accessible drinking water, no bathroom, no heat. And this was his happy place. What a life.

I think all of the "quitters" in my life gave me more inspiration than ever. They decided to do what was best for their life and create a little bit of happiness. We have one life to live and if we're not happy with what we're doing how will we forgive ourselves in the end? When I decided community health wasn't right for me; you could say I quit cold turkey. I switched my plans. I discovered new things. I filled my brain with new knowledge. I knew this was a step in the direction for a future of happiness and no regrets. Whether it's applying for a different job or making a change toward your health, it's okay to take a leap of faith. Sometimes the best challenges and breakthroughs come from quitting something blocking you from your goals and overall h a p p i n e s s.