Tony Gebhard

My old boss from a job years ago once told me, “Life is not a sprint, it’s a marathon.” He ran every day, competed in Ironman races, had a strong heart for God, and loved to think outside the box. His friendship and presence motivated me to do exactly the same. I started reading Bob Proctor’s material, listening to Denzel Washington clips, and buying books, but that wasn’t enough. I knew I needed to look beyond just my ears. I had to start engaging all the other senses in my body, not only feeding my ears and mind but working out, quitting heavy substances, and taking control of my life. I left a strenuous relationship, found self-love, came out of the closet, and realized I needed to take the next step. Love Tony. Love myself. Be willing and courageous enough to take ownership of my feelings, my actions, and handle life’s bullshit when it was flung at me. I turned it into chicken soup without hesitation and continue to do so today. Without looking, I met the most beautiful man online through a video game we both played at the time. Nervous to love again, we became best friends and took things slowly for several months. However, things naturally fell into place. His laugh, his huge heart for others with disabilities and kids, and his passion for giving back all made my heart melt. I knew then that I’d found my forever friend and partner. Love you, Mateo. We have plans to visit twice this year, and I grow more excited each day. He is doing amazing things with his job as a translator, finishing school, and giving back to his community. Nevertheless, I’ve learned that patience is my greatest weakness. Yet all this motivational content I’ve absorbed over the past five plus years has taught me to turn that weakness into a strength and become my own combative warrior. And no, nothing in this entire piece was written with AI. I know there’s a Thom or Tiffany getting analytical. Ha. Anyway, I digress. I’m thankful just to be alive today. I’m writing this on a Tuesday. It’s already April and I’m so excited to continue this run. I even bought a treadmill off Temu. It’s fabulous. Yes, Temu. Judge me hard. My new Apple Watch has helped tremendously by giving me tips, checking my vitals, and tracking my runs and workouts. I got it when I was in Portland for work a couple of weeks ago because my old SE model was starting to show its age. To bring this thought to a close, I know my ADHD brain is wild. I appreciate you. You matter. Please don’t rush through life, it’s the only one you have. Embrace each second, smile, breathe, and cherish your interactions with loved ones and strangers alike.