Have you ever noticed that when those around you share what they are grateful for during this season, it is people that are lifted up, rather than material things? It is connection, community, and love that are first named, and yet, first forgotten sometimes in the swift pace of life.

As I reflect on what I’m grateful for this season, my mind immediately drifted to the connection, community, and love that I have found at our incredible gym. A few months back, I wrote about the real reason we all CrossFit - for a better life! Our minds are clear, our bodies are able and strong, and we just feel better, plain and simple. But, in cultivating a strong sense of belonging, we also keep coming back for the connection with others, the community of knowing one another and celebrating life alongside one another, and the love we pour out for our friends and loved ones during joy and hardship. It’s pretty incredible.

So, here’s a fun fact about me. One of my favorite parts of competing is looking through the photos afterwards. Don’t get me wrong - I love a good action shot! But when I’m really looking for are candid shots of our connection, community, and love. Below are two of my favorites:

These pictures show what connection, community, and love look like when we come together as a gym crew to lift one another up. You see, that’s what it is all about. It’s bigger than you - it is about the people around you. Because for as much as we cheer for those around us, it is the cheers, encouragements, and celebrations that we get in return that keep us coming back for more. Curious about some of my reasons for coming back? Take a look:

The strong women who surround me every time I work out.
The way my fellow coaches celebrate my strengths, but coach my weaknesses.
The athletes I have the privilege of coaching each and every class. I get a front row seat to failed lifts, perseverance, and big celebrations. It’s the best seat in the house.
Friends that have turned into family…literally.
The dance parties, the laughter, the fist bumps, and the hugs.

As your food settles this evening, I encourage to just pause and take a look around at the community, connection, and love that fills your space and life! What a gift to have a life full of love, rather than things. Let us remember this as November comes to a close. Lift those around you up, and just watch how it changes your view. You won’t be disappointed. Be well, crew. As always, I’ll see you at the gym! :)

Big Hugs,

Coach Kady

Community Gratitude