Choose Your Hard
Living is work. It requires effort and we can’t avoid it. But we get to choose what is difficult.
Exercising each day is hard. But having mobility issues and not being able to do things you want to do is hard.
Eating right is hard. But being overweight and carrying too much weight on your frame is hard and uncomfortable.
Getting your work done on time is hard. But missing deadlines and dealing with the stress of others being disappointed and angry is hard.
Treating others with respect can be hard. But living in a world without empathy and kindness is very hard.
Life will go better for you if you just accept that living can be hard. But it can also be wonderful and joyful.
I have learned to love sweating and pushing myself in the gym. And getting regular exercise allows me to find great joy in other things, like walking around theme parks, playing on the beach, having great sex, or running around a marching band field helping kids get better.
Planning healthy meals is work, but feeling light and eating less makes me feel better all the time. In my household we make it a game to create healthier meals that taste good. And I try to plan meals so I don’t end up in a fast food drive through.
Meeting deadlines requires planning and work. Sometimes I have to work when I’d rather be playing. But getting my work done also brings paychecks, and satisfaction of a job well done, and helps lots of band kids have a better experience with their show.
I’ve learned to enjoy working hard. And times when I struggle I just buckle down and get it done because of the benefits of doing good work. I enjoy feeling light and healthy. I enjoy being able to move and play. I enjoy being someone that people are happy to see walk in the room!
You can do it. Choose your hard and get to work!
Tim Hinton
April 10, 2025
