All of us, at one time or another, has gained some undeserved fame by association. That is we talked to a celebrity, a person of stature in the community, a war hero, or spectacular commentator, a sports luminary. or the winner of some event. By aligning ourselves with these champions we too derive a sort of osmotic bit of their aura and notoriety. We may tell somebody after shaking hands with a great person, “I’m never going to wash my hand again.”
No matter what you or I choose to do that requires a significant amount of commitment and work, the “boo birds” and “naysayers” or the “jealous ones” will begin to gather and circle your predicted demise. They long to see your defeated carcass to be on public display so they can crow loudly for all to hear, “I TOLD YOU SO! or “I TRIED TO TELL HIM BUT HE WOULDN’T LISTEN.” It’s as if they have to have you defeated so they will be seen as wise and all knowing and somehow virtuous.
Then, if we press on in the face of abandonment by friends, relatives, associates, and of course known enemies we set the stage to correct the narrative. My advice is to be sure of what you want, especially in bodybuilding, plan carefully, ignore the opposition, and work as hard as humanly possible. This mindset and your effort cannot be taken away from you.
But, there is nothing like standing on stage and having the judges hang the first place medal around your neck and handing you the greatest trophy you have ever seen. Suddenly, in a nano-second you are catapulted to the head of the class. Suddenly, you are somebody of great repute. Tons of media and congratulations are sent your way. Handshakes, back slaps, Atta Boys, and looks of admiration belong to you. Mission accomplished and a job well done.
Now! Remember all those people who doubted you and discouraged you. In the near future, as you gather your “spoils of war” these people will be telling many a listening soul how they know you and when they became your best friend or your best fan. This! is the moment when all is right with the world. We don’t brag nor do we apologize. Be gracious! Thank the naysayers.
NOW! GET YOUR BUTT BACK TO WORK! THE STAGE AWAITS YOUR RETURN….WIN, LOSE OR DRAW! SET ALL THINGS RIGHT AGAIN AND AGAIN.
Six Pack and Senior 
Meaning set of very important phrases Doug. I think everyone has those naysayers and Jealous types that we need to overcome if you weren’t endowed with the silver spoon sort of speak. I had to also break down those barriers in order to achieve my career accomplishments and achievements. Thank you for sharing Doug.
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