Community

com·mu·ni·ty  

1. people in area: a group of people who live in the same area, or the area in which they live
2. people with common background: a group of people with a common background or with shared interests within society
3. nations with common history: a group of nations with a common history or common economic or political interests

When I think of the people at CrossFit Indestri (CFI), I think "community".  As defined above, #2 is exactly what it is.  Not necessarily people with a common background as we all have led very different lives and come from very different backgrounds.  But we are a group of people with a shared interest.  We all have a love/hate relationship with CrossFit LOL.

But seriously, it's very hard not to grow close to a group of people that you've completed a WOD with.  We cheer each other on, give encouragement to help keep them going, and give them a high five or props at the end of the workout.  We smile, we laugh, we sweat, and well, sometimes, we cry together.

Community is one of the top reasons I am still at CrossFit.  As much as I have learned that I love to lift heavy things, the people bring me back day after day.  Whether it's a "Hey Mighty Mouse" from coach Tyson in the morning or some "ribbing" from some of the members about whether we're ready for today's workout or not.  I don't think I could ever leave this type of environment.

Photo by Jennifer Nichol

This couldn't have been more true when I, unfortunately, had to take a total of 6 weeks off from CrossFit.  Between Pool School, a vacation, and some medical issues, it was the longest time away from these people that I've had in the past year.  And when I was going through my personal troubles, the only place I wanted to be was at CFI.  Kind of a Cheers effect.  You know "where everybody knows your name"...

While I was off, I received messages on Facebook.  "Miss you", "When are you coming back?"  "Quit slacking and get your butt in here!"  (My favourite).  Just made me miss CFI more.  So the first day I went back, I was a little emotional but boy, was I happy to see everyone.  Got some great hugs and "welcome back".

Another great testament to this community, well now more like a family, is how people stepped forward to help Chris achieve his goal at MetCon.  They were either there to watch him or there to help him.  Truly amazing!

So, if you're looking for a place where you can get fit and feel a part of a "community" like ours, then check out your local CrossFit box.  Ask the members.  I bet they say the same thing.

"Where everybody knows your name,

And they're always glad you came;

You want to go where people know,

People are all the same;

You want to go where everybody knows your name."

Where Everybody Knows Your Name by Gary Portnoy and Judy Hart Angelo

source: http://www.lyricsondemand.com/tvthemes/cheerslyrics.html

So Deeply Moved... Thank you

I am completely overwhelmed by the response and support my blog has received in it's short existence. 


When I started writing my story last week, it was really in celebration of all that I have accomplished over the past year.  I had all these thoughts that I just needed to get out.  I wanted to share so much but only expected that it would be to those that know me.  Either we're friends on Facebook or they follow me on Twitter.  I truly did not expect anything more.

I checked my stats after my first post.  There was over 100 pageviews in less than an hour!  This "audience" was from all over the world!  I had posted my blog on a Facebook page I follow "Women of CrossFit = Strong".  A page where women share their inspiring stories.  I thought "hey, why not."  

Next thing I knew, my blog was being shared by others.  Shared by friends.  My first post is already up to 277 pageviews.  Really?

Since then I've written 3 more posts.  A total of 729 pageviews!!  What???  Now, I'm not going to get too excited, I understand that it's not necessarily 700 peeps but still.  WOW, it's all I can say.  Of course most of these are in Canada but my little blog has been seen in the US, Germany, the UK, Netherlands, Indonesia, Sweden, Dominican Republic, Hong Kong, and Panama!!

The messages I have received through Twitter and Facebook have been overwhelming.  These people are calling my story "inspiring".  They're proud of me, my accomplishments.  They are words of encouragement.  I thank you.  

Then today, my blog was read by 2 people who I often either read their articles and blogs or listen to their opinions on the radio.  I received great comments and this:

McLeods Musings with Mariane McLeod

Thank you Mariane!  Your words are very kind and I am honoured that you shared my story!

Thank you everyone!  Thank you for your kind words and your support :)