TBJ - In-Between Thoughts
Dear Beginners,
I think there’s something about doing things with a fearlessness to life. I just watched a reel of two men singing quite powerfully, and I could see they spared no notes and no emotions and sent the air reverberating mercilessly through their lips. I felt their soul with each word. But more than anything, I felt no fear.
While playing tennis this morning, I told myself something similar. As a beginner, I sometimes shy away from the ball. It’s a recoil inspired by uncertainty and lack of confidence. I remember whispering, “Omi, get it together, hit the ball, do not be afraid,” as I played. When I did obey the silent commands, my racket sang with a resonant echo through the court. When I didn’t, it was disappointing, to say the least.
Life must be approached with fearlessness. A sure confidence that proves to be the compass we need to navigate this winding path.
Therefore, when I sing now, I’ll do so with reckless abandon as I twist my vocal cords into submission. When I dance, I’ll throw my legs like they were made to beat the ground. When I write, I’ll leave no word as I found it, ingratiating it into the piece to create a message that cannot be ignored.
When I ideate. When I create. When I…
Here’s the link to the reel:
I hope this inspires to “be fearless”.
With love,
Omi.
Update on my Beginner’s Journey:
Do you remember the fears I highlighted at the beginning of the beginner's journey?
Psst... Look here:
Good news!
I'm confronting them step by step.
Here's how I've been confronting the fears of beginning:
In January, I started playing tennis consistently. I say consistently because we've had a tennis court opposite my house for years where I played sporadically. Until recently, that is.
As a novice tennis player, you can imagine how many balls I missed and still miss, the amount of 'I'm sorry' when I give terrible returns, and how I still barely see the balls in the air.
The funny thing is all these "inadequacies" are seen clearly by everyone who walks by or decides to watch our training. I know my fears were unnecessary because people have more encouragement than jests. The better players are patient with me and free with helpful tips for my improvement. I want to do it every day.
One thing I hear every time I train with the other players is, "We were once learners and understand the struggle."
Imagine that!
Imagine remembering these words before you give up or beat yourself up.
Tell me how you’ve “begun” in the comments section.
And don’t forget to share.
xo