Reflecting on a Year of Hard Work and Growth
Aloha witches!
As we close the chapter on this year and turn the page to a promising new one, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible hard work each of you has put in. This year has been a journey filled with challenges, yet it has been a period of profound growth for all of us. I am immensely proud of each and every one of you and grateful to be a part of your journey.
This year marked the beginning of my new career as a personal trainer, a role that has felt like stepping into one of my life's true callings. It has been exhilarating to fine-tune my craft and expand my knowledge, allowing me to work more effectively and holistically. I've learned that nutrition and fitness are deeply intertwined with spirituality, and the separation we see is often merely an illusion. Our individual uniqueness is essential to the tapestry of life, making it vibrant and complete.
I am especially stoked about the ladies' hike that we have done every month since July! It has been such a fantastic experience, and I look forward to continuing this tradition all year long. The camaraderie and connection we've built during these hikes are truly special, and I can't wait to see where our adventures take us next.
Honoring a Legacy
I also want to take a moment to honor my father, William H. Pounds, II, who fought bravely and left this world with his head held high. His journey through illness was a challenging one, yet he met it with remarkable strength. I am grateful for the wisdom he imparted and the unwavering support he provided as a father. Throughout his life, he faced numerous health challenges, including pancreatic and liver disease, which are complex and often difficult to overcome.
Spending precious time with him during his final days was both a gift and a profound learning experience. It was the second time I witnessed the passing of a parent, each experience distinct yet deeply impactful. While my mother's passing was marked by a serene acceptance, my father's was a stark reminder of the harsh realities of illness.
In our culture, death is often shrouded in mystery and fear, perceived as a sudden, sinister event. Yet, in truth, it is a gradual process that unfolds over days or weeks, culminating when the heart ceases to beat. I believe it is crucial for us to foster a greater understanding of how to care for those nearing the end of life, to demystify the process, and to approach it with compassion and preparedness.
Preparing for the Future
Looking ahead, I am hopeful that it will be some time before I need to care for someone in this way again, but I feel more prepared for when that time comes. It is essential that we take care of ourselves and communicate our desires regarding the end of our lives, providing clarity and comfort to our loved ones. While our wishes may not matter once we have passed, sharing them can offer us peace and give our loved ones guidance.
Embracing the New Year
As we step into 2025, let us embrace it as a year of new beginnings. May it be filled with growth, opportunities, heartfelt friendships, true love, and prosperity beyond measure. Let us continue to support one another on our journeys, growing stronger and more resilient with each passing day. I also look forward to personal training everyone throughout the year—no matter your goals or abilities, everyone is welcome!
Thank you for being a part of my life and allowing me to be a part of yours. I look forward to embarking on another year filled with magic and possibility.
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