I went to my brother-in-law's mother-in-law's funeral the other day. She died suddenly at 87 and had a very full and happy life. As part of the ceremony it is traditional to do one last favor for the deceased and the task is considered sacred because the person can never return the favor. The favor is to bury the individual by filling in the grave until the casket is no longer visible.
Traditionally mourners line up to put 2 or 3 shovels full of dirt in the grave. I filed through once and then waited for the rest. After everyone has taken their turn, whoever is left finishes the favor. I waited around and noticed that the last person was getting a tad tired so I stepped in. Easily I helped fill in the grave and after 10mn or so we had finished. These events are always sad but that is not the lead.
Here is the lead. As I was working I noticed how easy the task was. I was surprised that I was not really working hard but just doing the task. I have also been noticing that I am getting into really good shape, that other tasks and chores seem easier. My muscles are becoming more defined. I have better endurance. Physical tasks that use to take effort are not as hard. For the first time in my life I have upper-body strength, muscles and endurance.
I have never been a jock; I have never been close to being an athlete. I am a self described nerd, which is a badge that I wear with some pride and embarrassment. Is this what being an athlete means? Are tasks and chores are easier because you have the muscles and stamina to do them?
I have noticed that the non-training population does not react the same way to physical exertion. I have also noticed that I am having a better time working out. Huh: very odd for a self described nerd. The collateral effects of training strike again.
