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James Bailey's avatar

I loved the descriptions of arising in the morning and having coffee. Then: “An empty space in my heart was filled by sharing the suffering with my brother.”

I have a brother 51 weeks older than I am and we are best friends and have shared our suffering like you two. I cherish it more than most things in life.

You two are lucky.

Great piece Jack.

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Jack Dixon's avatar

Thank you James, for reading, for your ongoing support, and for your kind words.

Although I want to kill him sometimes, having a brother of similar age (we are 23 months apart) is the greatest gift I have been given.

We are indeed lucky. As are you and your brother.

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Tommy Dixon's avatar

I love the idea of finding connection and community through exercise.

Instead of hopping on a peloton and banging out 30 minute sprints, go on a 2 hour bike ride with a friend. What you lose in pure efficiency, you gain in camaraderie and sustainability

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Jack Dixon's avatar

Thanks buddy. Very well said. Sacrificing pure efficiency for camaraderie and sustainability is almost always a trade off I’m willing to make.

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Tim Sweetman's avatar

It's so interesting read this, because my mentality has been to go at it solo. And so far, it's worked. My wife will NOT do fitness unless it's in a group setting. For years, I did Crossfit and there is such a power in the group and shared suffering...but for some reason, I've had a fear of returning to the vulnerable place.

I think that's the challenge: getting vulnerable with our suffering. We want to carry it alone, and think alone means stronger. But...we don't have to suffer alone. And stronger can happen together.

Thank you Jack!

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Jack Dixon's avatar

Thanks for reading, Tim! I've been the same way for most of my life. Hammering day after day alone, thinking that needing to rely on a group to exercise is a sign of weakness. But our lives can be enhanced so much when we open ourselves to suffering with others. You worded it beautifully.

I hope to hear about your experience if you pick up group exercise again!

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Miche Priest's avatar

I frequently walk by a barre studio on my block. I’ve thought about joining many times thinking it might help me meet neighbours. After reading your post I’m going to give it a go.

Thanks for the inspiration!

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Jack Dixon's avatar

I love hearing that! Part of my goal in transitioning to writing stories is to bring some implementation to the information. So I love to hear you’re going to try something new because of this!

Have fun and let me know how it goes!

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Miche Priest's avatar

I will!

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