my torchbearer essay

[jawnbc]

When I found out I'd be a torchbearer I made a decision to hold back the essay I wrote to "win" my spot. To be selected as a torchbearer via Coke's competition you entered a random draw multiple times (I did nearly 100 times). If you make it past the first round you are asked to submit a 200 word essay about how you've changed your life for the better. Then a panel decides if your entry is one of the best 4000.

I thought long and hard before submitting this--even longer about sharing it. And not only because I find it hard to say anything in 200 words or less...ok, here goes: 



Start moving
I want to carry the flame for those whose alcoholism took away everything. In February 2010 I will be excited about the Games, but I’ll also think about where I’ve come from in twenty years. Starting in February 1990 I lost it all: job, home, family, and health—all gone in a few weeks. I found myself trying to figure out where it had all gone so terribly wrong. I could see where my life was headed—and I was terrified.

Terrified enough to change everything. I learned how to take care of myself: certainly no more alcohol, but also eating well and moving more. That first year I walked all over Vancouver. Then I learned how to cross-country ski. Over the next several years I added downhill skiing, ice and inline skating and snowboarding to the mix. My body recovered and got stronger; so did my mind and spirit. I even I went back to school, eventually earning a PhD. Life’s funny. Twenty years ago I was sedentary and wasting away. Today it’s me who organizes the gang to do stuff!

I’ve been so lucky; I’ve tried to give back. Over the years I’ve mentored others facing challenges like alcoholism. I tell them that for me it all started with two decisions: change everything. And start moving.

Comments

[jawnbc]

Thanks Robert!

[tilia-tomentosa.livejournal.com]

You amaze me.

[jawnbc]

Mersi :)

[ruralrob.livejournal.com]

Strategically, you couldn't have done better. But more importantly, a fine piece of writing and a fine story. You did good, jawn.

[jawnbc]

Thanks Robbie

[susandennis]

I've been waiting and hoping you'd share this and I am so glad you did. It's beautiful. Carry on and carry well. Congratulations.

[jawnbc]

Thanks Susan!

[champdaddy.livejournal.com]

inspirational

[jawnbc]

Thank you :)

[f8n-begorra.livejournal.com]

You deserve a wonderful, memorable, momentous run! I look forward to the pics.

[jawnbc]

Go raibh maith agat mo chroi.

[weebax.livejournal.com]

Way to go man.. very interested in hearing about your Torch Run....and seeing pics...

[jawnbc]

Thanks handsome!

[dorisduke.livejournal.com]

It is very well stated and to the point. I have a feeling if many read this it would inspire those some if only a few to follow.

[jawnbc]

Thank you :)

[northbuckschris.livejournal.com]

The simplicity and assertiveness of your statement is inspirational. I've said it before and I'll say it again: You're a Good Man. Have a fantastic time with that flame!

[jawnbc]

Ta Chris!

[paterson-si.livejournal.com]

That's a touching moment, Dr. E. I like you even more.

[jawnbc]

:) :) :)

[cuboz.livejournal.com]

Am I so clueless as to not realise that this was in your past?

Well done! :-)

[jawnbc]

Nah mate, I'm discrete. Talking much about seems like drama. :)

[arktos62.livejournal.com]

Inspirational stuff. Your back story has the makings of a book.

[jawnbc]

A very boring one. Thanks!

[snousle.livejournal.com]

Guess we should be grateful you didn't have to submit it in the form of a Twitter. ;-)

You do a lot with 200 words here. It's very direct and sincere. Your opening sentence, it's like a knife cutting through a fog of cliche. Completely refreshing.

[jawnbc]

Thanks Tony! Has your Mum rented out her condo?

[snousle.livejournal.com]

She doesn't want to rent it out - she's a very private person - but Urso and Tom are staying there for a few days.