Hey Green Fire family, it's Trista here. I've been doing a lot of thinking during my long car rides—my personal 'think tank' sessions. Today, I want to open up about a topic that's been heavy on my mind and heart: shame. It's a feeling we've all encountered, either self-imposed or through others, sometimes unintentionally. But it's also a barrier to our growth, a source of self-sabotage.
The Weight of Shame
In my own journey, shame crept in when I least expected it. I reached out for guidance to grow our gym, only to be met with disbelief that I wasn't running Green Fire CrossFit full-time after eight years. That moment sent me spiraling, questioning my worth, my dedication, and whether I had done enough for our community.
But then, I remembered my battles, my losses—friends to addiction and accidents, loved ones to unforeseen tragedies. Each loss, each challenge, I faced while still showing up for you, our Green Fire family. Because that's what commitment looks like. It's showing up when your heart is in pieces, because you believe in the impact of what you do, in the power of our community.
The Journey is Yours Alone
These reflections brought me clarity. Yes, I juggled another job alongside the gym. But that balance was my lifeline through the darkest times, including the pandemic. It allowed me to support our gym and you, our members, when the world stood still. We adapted, we persevered, and we emerged stronger.
Looking around our gym, I see the fruits of patience and strategic growth. I see a community built on resilience, on mutual support. Our gym stands debt-free, a testament to our collective strength and our shared values.
Embracing Your Path
To every athlete feeling the sting of comparison, remember this: your journey is uniquely yours. The weight you wish to lift, the skills you aim to master—they will come, in time. But shaming yourself for where you are now only hinders your progress. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small, and recognize the growth in every step you take.
The Power of Community
As we stand on the brink of our 10th year, I'm filled with gratitude. Our community, our team, has never been stronger. Each decision I make, each step forward, is with you in mind. Because Green Fire CrossFit is more than a gym; it's a family, a support system, a place where we lift each other up.
Looking Ahead
As I step into a full-time role at our gym, I do so without fear, guided by the values and principles that have shaped our journey together. Our focus on connection, on making a meaningful impact, will continue to drive us forward.
I'm excited for what lies ahead, for the growth we'll achieve together. And as your coach, your friend, I'm here to remind you that you're capable of overcoming any challenge, any feeling of shame. Together, we'll continue to build a community where everyone belongs, where every achievement is celebrated.
Thank you, Green Fire family, for your unwavering support, for being the heart of this gym. Here's to us, to our journey, and to the incredible year ahead. I am so proud to be part of this community, and I love you all.
With all my heart,
Trista