The message at Monday’s motivational get-together came through loud and clear – but York didn’t show up to hear it. We heard testimonials from Wendy Smith and Tom O’Shea, who shared some very personal, “moving” and definitely motivating stories that personify what it means to become “Younger Next Year”. If you never open the book just look up Tom or Wendy, spend some time with them, hear their stories, and you will understand what Harry and Chris are trying to say. THANK YOU Wendy and Tom – as Chris Crowley exhorts over and over in Younger Next Year, you “Just Said Yes”, you “connected” and you fed our limbic needs for a few moments.
The irony is that the message that came through loud and clear wasn’t heard by those who needed to hear it – those who didn’t show up. Most everyone who needed to hear it wasn’t there. Wendy and Tom both told powerful stories about their journeys toward a lifestyle of fitness and the common theme for both was the need to “connect” with others along the way. Both shared the belief that going out, day after day, year after year, is only going to happen if you know someone is waiting for you to show up. Both shared stories of “connections” and “caring” that I cannot adequately put into words but, that drove home the message of “Let’s Move, York…”. Folks, we cannot do this alone. WE CAN DO THIS TOGETHER.
In Chapter 19, Chris Crowley gives his common-sense interpretation of Harry’s scientific explanation of the need for limbic resonance. He tells us to “JUST SAY YES. There’s a terrible temptation to say “no” as we get older (or get wrapped up in our own busy lives). It’s a hassle to do this or that. We don’t really need to. Except of course, that we do. We need to do almost anything that gets us involved with other people. Because, as you now know, connections save lives. So, until you fill your life up again – and maybe after that as well – default to “yes” when anyone suggests doing something or asks for help.”
“Let’s Move, York…” needs your help. York needs your help. We need you to show up – to just say yes – to connect – to care. Wendy and Tom get it. We all can.
Now, call someone and ask them to meet you, or ask your co-worker to join you for your daily dose of exercise. Or “comment” on this blog site to share your thoughts and ideas on how Lets Move, York can succeed. Because that’s how “Let’s Move, York…” is supposed to work.
I’ve been struggling with how to get moving. Happen-chance intervened today and asked if I’ve heard about the book “Younger Next Year” I said that I did but haven’t read it. As we talked I learned a bit about Let’s Move York….WOW…
I plan to show up for the walk on Sunday…Brillhart Station is my favorite Rail Trail starting point. So, no excuse that I don’t know where it is. I’m sorry that I’m just finding this information now. Sunday is billed as the Last Big Walk for 2011. Are there other events planned for the fall?