I am having some what of a writers block. So I have decided just to acknowledge the people who have created a huge influence in my life whether in Jiu Jitsu, cognitive thinking, ethical practises or just some good ole advise given to me. If you were left out of this list and wish to be on it, please submit an essay professing so.
The top 10 people who have influenced my life.
10. Saulo Ribeiro - This guy is bad with a capitol A. He has won more medals in the mundials then anybody else in history, and the more I read of his philosophy on Jiu Jitsu and life, the more I like him. Recommended reading [Jiu Jitsu University] it is a must have.
9. SSGT Dejuan Roberts - Dejuan was my section Chief in the Army. He was like a big brother to me, we taught me to always look on the bright side of things no matter how dark they get. We were on funeral duty once and our van broke down, I wanted to give in and not try to get there. Dejuan exhausted every option we had, we ended up hitch hiking 30 miles to the cemetery in Full Class A uniform. Can you imagine Army hitch hikers. lol Huge life lesson that weekend.
8. Cornell West - I was introduced to Dr. West in college in a political science class. His book Demoracy matters was a huge influence on my political views. Although I am not extreme left like Dr. West, I tend to look at the whole picture and why it is so important to be involved with local and national govt. Recommended reading [Democracy Matters]
7. Jeff Gifford - The Giff!! Jeff was my old supervisor when I was in the car biz. He was the epitome of a car salesman right down to his slicked back hair. Jeff is the wisest man I know, always gave me good advise on life and work. Jeff taught me the essentials of Governing Dynamics. Do what is best for you, and what is best for the group, that way everyone wins. Plus he taught me a butt load on body language, he piratically made me a human lie detector. Which kind of sucks, you know the old saying ignorance is bliss.
6. Grandpa West - I owe my hobbies and one my passions in life to my Grandpa West. He taught me how to fly fish when I moved back from New York. His love for the sport taught me how to appreciate nature and take in the beauty of this world. Even though I never fished with him on the river, he is with me all the time telling me not to flex my wrist so much.
5. 2nd Section Bravo 3/6 FA - Champ, Earl, Uncle Steve, Sgt Deeznuts. These guys define true friends. Even to this day I talk to them and it has been 5 years since Afghanistan. It is nice to know that you have backup when ever you need it. They taught me family can form out of sweat and blood, and a few hundred sandbags, and pound cakes.
4. The West Side Crew - Not only did these guys teach my Jiu Jitsu which changed my life, but they also taught me that you should be afraid of the guy who is smiling and acting calm in adversity instead of the guy jumping around saying how bad you are going to kick someones ass. This is no joke I am deathly afraid of skinny guys that have cauliflower ear now.
3. The Vega's - Tim and Crystal are family to me, and they give me hope that marriage can work between two couples. Tim has taught me what hard work and dedication can do for you, and crystal has taught me what a little hills action can do for you. No but on a serious note crystal I love that you give to me straight, and are not afraid of calling me a d bag or calling me out on eating whole boxes of oreos. Thanks.
1 & 2. My wonder full two family's with out them I wouldn't exist. So thanks guys for making me possible, and being there for me, and feeding me, changing my diapers, making me shower when I was younger, kicking my ass when it needed to be kicked. Making me wear horrific clothes to humble me, and having a curfew at 11:00 when I was 18 (God knows what I would have done) Thanks for everything I love you guys
Okay I promise that is the last of the lovey dovey stuff from now on, next blog will have blood, guts, and naked woman. HELL YA!
Monday, August 3, 2009
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