What Matters
Christopher B.
Founder, Magical Year Retreats. Human thriving, performance and transitions consultant. Interviewer, Author, Athlete, Explorer.
I never lost faith in the end of the story. I never doubted not only that I would get out, but also that I would prevail in the end and turn the experience into the defining event of my life, which, in retrospect, I would not?trade. - Navy Vice Adm. James Stockdale discussing his experience as a prisoner of war in Vietnam.
I read Stockdale's story in the 80s and his quote is one of many tools I used to not just survive, but thrive despite what can only be described as an impressive run of bad medical luck.
This picture is from a late evening swim at a high alpine lake that is one of many special places in this beautiful valley that were instrumental for my recovery from debilitating pain that resumed six months after emergency spinal surgery.
I devoted the next three years of my life to rebuilding my body, mind, and spirit from it and two genetic diseases, progressing from being winded climbing a flight of stairs to skinning up mountains and setting personal best swims and lifts.
Then, a case of Long Covid became two, and during the past few months I learned that rolling respiratory infections last winter were caused by Smoldering Multiple Myeloma, a precancerous condition.
Laughter is more often than one might think the only appropriate response.
The prognosis is good and I am in a wait and watch period. But given that far too much of my life has been spent overcoming and out performing health issues and I don't take tomorrow for granted, my priority is completing Baron's America, More In Common Election Tour and seeding and promoting More In Common Ventures, a foundation whose mission is to provide grants to stabilize housing, equip recipients to recover from tragedy, and fund the work of grantees with the experience, desire, and drive to complete work that will benefit themselves, and their families and communities.
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That work will outlive me and afterwards I'm spending a few months on deep rest, medical treatment, completing the final chapter of my manuscript, and leading a few retreats.
If you're curious what your fellow Americans are thinking during this historic election, and hold some hope that there is a center of people who desire polite and respectful discourse, you can support my travels from Maine to Key West and portions of the Great Lakes and the Gulf Coast below.
Baron's America, More In Common Podcast Election Tour
Book preorder other rewards, sponsorship and consulting options, and winter retreats posting soon.
Best, Chris