This past weekend I attended a men’s retreat with my church. I have put it off, finding an excuse not to go for the last seven years. Without a doubt one of the best decisions I have made in my adult life was to go this year. I won’t miss another one.
We were in the woods of southern NH. We stayed in lakeside cabins with nothing to do except what all 150+ men set out to do – increase our relationship with God and learn how to be better men, husbands, and dads.
One of the most refreshing things, amongst many, was the overwhelming feeling I had of complete non-judgement. Every man there was focused on improving their lives through God, and helping their brother in Christ do the same. Period. It was such an incredibly positive experience…I don’t think I can accurately put it into words.
The second aspect that comes to mind was the time that was purposely allocated for us to chill out! On Saturday we had from lunch at noon until 4:00 to do what ever we wanted, what ever we needed to do, to make the weekend successful. When was the last time you had any time at all when you didn’t HAVE to be somewhere, taking care of someone or doing something.
I went into this weekend with no expectations, feeling like a hamster on a wheel and physically ill after being diagnosed with Lyme Disease 12 days earlier. I left a new man. I have peace. I am energized. I am recommited to making a difference in this world.
I felt the spirit of God and it was so wonderful it brought me to my knees. The closest thing I can relate it to was the joy I felt when my kids were born – and that’s not even close!
So here’s the question:
What does this have to do with getting you in shape?
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