Introduction
Resilience is more than just a buzzword; it’s a way of life. It’s the art of navigating life’s ups and downs, the good and the bad, the triumphs and the tragedies. In my book “Living A Strong Life,” I delve into the core principles that have guided me through a life that has been anything but ordinary. From surviving the street gangs of The Bronx to mastering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, from losing a child to finding success as a performing artist, my life has been a testament to the power of resilience. And now, at 62, living with Rheumatoid Arthritis, I find that the lessons of resilience are more relevant than ever.
The Dual Nature of Life: Succumbing and Surmounting
Life is a series of battles, some of which we win, and some we lose. The key to resilience lies in understanding the dual nature of life: the act of succumbing and the act of surmounting.
Succumbing: The Inevitable Falls
We all face moments where we succumb to life’s challenges. For me, one of the most devastating was the death of my first child. It was a loss so profound that it shook the very core of my being. I also lost businesses, faced financial hardships, and had to navigate the complexities of an aging body, now compounded by Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Surmounting: Rising Again
But succumbing is only one side of the coin. The other is surmounting—rising again, stronger and wiser. My martial arts training, especially in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, taught me the importance of getting back up, no matter how hard you’re hit. It’s a lesson I’ve applied in every facet of my life, from finding success as a performing artist traveling the world to working with renowned director M. Night Shyamalan.
The Principles of “Living A Strong Life”
In my book, “Living A Strong Life,” I outline the principles that have helped me navigate these highs and lows:
- Adaptability: Just like in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where you must adapt to your opponent’s moves, life requires constant adaptation.
- Mindfulness: Being present in the moment allows you to fully experience life, whether you’re on a movie set or teaching a martial arts class.
- Community: My work as an educator, coach, and mentor in my community has shown me the power of collective resilience. We are stronger together.
- Purpose: Having a sense of purpose has guided me through the darkest times, from the streets of The Bronx to the loss of my child.
- Self-Compassion: Learning to be kind to yourself in times of failure is crucial. It’s okay to succumb; what matters is that you rise again.
The Wisdom of Age and the Challenge of Rheumatoid Arthritis
At 62, I find that these principles are not just theoretical concepts but daily practices. Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis has been a new kind of battle, one that requires all the resilience I’ve built up over the years. It’s a daily reminder that resilience is not a destination but a journey.
Conclusion: Empowering Myself and My Community
Resilience is not just for the individual; it’s for the community. For nearly 30 years, I’ve had the honor of teaching martial arts, and through this, I’ve been able to impart the lessons of resilience to the next generation. From the success and loss in business to the highs and lows of life, every experience has equipped me to be a better educator, coach, and mentor.
Life will always be a mix of succumbing and surmounting. But armed with the principles of “Living A Strong Life,” the wisdom of age, and the lessons from a lifetime of challenges, I find myself not just surviving but thriving. And that, in essence, is the art of resilience.
