Donate Your Love For Life - A Message From Matt Ramah

   There is nothing more breath-taking, in the human culture, than selflessness. A random act of kindness has the power to change not just a person's day, but their entire world. The intent is to reward someone who is unsuspecting, however the power of the action goes well beyond that. In most cases, the unsuspecting person goes on to pay it forward. It's rare when we get to witness something this incredible, but every single one of us is capable of creating the moment. This takes me back a few weeks ago, when a very dear friend called me with an update on life.

Seriously take the time to do this!

   My friendship with Matt Ramah goes all the way back to 1994; and has only grown stronger since the days of our youth. We've been there for each other, with a shameless confidence, in some of the best and worst moments that we've ever experienced. Therefore, I was not the slightest bit shocked when he told me he was in the process of becoming a kidney donor. He simply explained to me, that a friend (who is like family to him) had a close family member with fading health. He didn't have to go on... my heart was beating with his. He spoke from an amazingly humble perspective and I realized, at that very moment, he had grown into the man that many of us hope to become one day.
   In his everyday life, Matt Ramah is a medical adjuster living in Columbus, OH with his family. His beautiful wife, Alicia, is one of the most compassionate people I have ever met; and his six month old son, Elijah, has been practicing his soccer skills since he was in the womb. Raylan, their pit-bull mix, keeps the whole family laughing with her loving antics (and, of course, secretly runs the household.). I'm trying to get them to adopt me, but no luck yet... Thanks Raylan! Basically though, the Ramah family is badass.

Look at the center of attention there....

   Ramah and I wrote this piece together. Our goal is to put any worried or discouraged loved ones' hearts and minds at ease; and inspire others to explore themselves and give what they can truly live without. I asked him what attracted him to helping people and how he determined selflessness; his response was this:
   "I have had many selfish moments in life. More than I would like to count, but it's the selfless moments I find easier to recollect. It's the look on someone's face - when you take the time out of your day to be there for them because they are clearly in a place more difficult than you. Whether that's jump-starting a car, responding to an accident scene or volunteering at an animal or homeless shelter. It's a feeling that stays with you and helps you see the greater purpose in life. I don't see a determining factor in someone's selflessness. I think it's something that only the person doing the act can fully understand. We can't stop at every flat tire (metaphorically speaking) along the way, it just doesn't work like that. You will know when you passed up the golden opportunity to positively affect someone else's day. The key is to use that moment to recognize you had the opportunity; and commit to not passing it up the next time an opportunity arises."
   It just goes to show you how honest you have to be with yourself about your own character, in order to take selfless action. Do you stop and pull a large fallen tree limb to the side of the road, so that traffic doesn't have to swerve around it? Do you call the phone number on a stray dog's collar?? Do you give up your spot in line at the grocery store to someone behind you with less groceries??? These little gestures save lives, make families whole again and help people move on with their day in a positive fashion.
   "I am donating my kidney to one of my best friend's sister-in-law. Alicia and I are pretty close with most of their family. To be honest, I do not know the sister-in-law much at all, but it was the closeness with the entire family, including her husband, that led me to make this decision. 
   When I originally determined looking into being tested for a match, it was a very rash decision. Alicia noticed me taking a screenshot of the Facebook post (by the family in need) requesting anyone willing to check into this more. She made a comment about "seeing what I just did" and this kicked off the whole process. We have had excellent communication with each other along the way; educating ourselves to the max to ensure this decision we were making was going to be the right one. The decision to move forward with donating an organ was something that had to be made knowing that my family would not be affected in a negative way (This in no way was something that only I would decide.)."
   When he found he was actually a match for donation, a whole new set of challenges was in front of him. His honesty about what he was feeling gave me a warm and fuzzy sensation. Like we had just scored a touchdown to tie the game and there was still a lot of hard work to accomplish for the victory.
   "Finding out I was officially "the match" was a really shocking thing to hear. I think most people go into this situation expecting to hear - Thank you so much for the selfless consideration, but... - and I'll be honest, I really expected to hear the same thing. That doesn't detract from anyone that puts themselves in a position to be a potential donor, but man, the weight of it all doesn't really start to settle into place. That's until you get more finite information that you actually have a decision to make, in regards to moving forward with the donation or not. Alicia and I took every step of the process as a way for us to sit back, review where we were as a family and where this would take us. There never was a phone call that came in where I just said "yes" or "no" to something. It always revolved around them giving us time to make a rational decision. So when we found it was as official as it is going to be, we took the time to weigh out positives and negatives. And EVERY single time, the positives outweighed the negatives in a HUGE way."
   His attitude has always been humble about the kidney donation. He has been calculated in conversing with others about what he's doing because he didn't want things to "get crazy" early in the process. We all want to be supportive, but some of us might project our own worry that could negatively influence him. He let some of us who are closest to him know what was going on, so we could wrap our heads around it. He also needed us to be a voice for him through the process. Ramah wants to maintain his positive outlook through this journey and knows he can't connect with every single loved one, individually, prior to surgery. He had this message to share with everyone:
   "It is going to come out to everyone what I am doing and I am okay with that. I want people to know what I am doing, so they can look differently at situations in the future. I am in no way advocating that everyone should be willing to donate an organ. What I AM saying is to find the situations that are presented to you where you can make a difference in other people's lives. Don't immediately find a reason not to help. Sit back and think of your options. If your positives for helping someone else outweigh the negatives, why not give it a go? You will feel better about yourself and, believe me, the person that you help will be more grateful than you realize prior to helping them. I am not better than anyone for what I am doing, but I am an advocate to the idea of the positive impact a selfless decision can have on the world. A world that's dominated by negative headlines and the selfish acts of the celebrities that are idolized by the public eye."
   The opportunity to change somebody's world for the better came knocking on the Ramah's door. They graciously answered with their hearts full of love, which honestly guided their way through this decision. It's that love forged in their young growing family that builds confidence and easily manages their fears. Though it seems effortless from an outside perspective, I know they work hard to live genuinely happy.
   Prior to surgery, Ramah plans on doing things that will be off-limits during his six week recovery period. Most importantly, holding his son Elijah. He also plans to go out with some friends to wish his kidney "bon voyage" and feed it a few drinks. As he so enthusiastically shared, "because that guy is going on a journey!", and I certainly don't blame him!

CHEERS to you Brother!! "CONNIE.. GET ME ANOTHER GRAPE!"

   "After surgery it's quite simple, as well. My goal is to get through the next six weeks as quickly and safely as possible. This, so that on the last day of restriction I can pick up my son, load him in the car and drive him to the driving range - where I am going to swing a golf club for the first time since surgery (that the public will know about because a certain someone will get pretty upset if I push it!). Eventually, getting back into my workout regimen to continue training for my second "Tough Mudder" in September. Which I plan on completing faster than the previous year. In the long term, I should not see any effects of having one kidney, but I don't see that as entirely accurate. I believe this procedure will help me become healthier as a person because I will want to treat my remaining kidney with great care.
   In a different long term mindset, I want to use this experience to help guide people in directions that will help them and others. I want to be able to tell the story to Elijah; helping him grow as a man. A man that thinks of others and takes the opportunities (when presented to him) to help others out when they are in a tough situation themselves."
   Ramah's words speak for themselves, but his actions echo in all of us. There is no doubt that he has been faced with some of the most challenging decisions of his life. However, when the positives outweigh the negatives, there is no more room for excuses. He is proud of his family, he's dedicated to loving them unconditionally and he willingly accepts life with all of its challenges. He believes in living to our fullest potential and does this by example on a daily basis. Though I know he appreciates all of the thoughts and prayers for him; he definitely believes that kind of energy is better spent selflessly helping someone in need. Please be inspired.
   He would be quick to tell you that the recipient of his kidney is the real hero in this situation. For she is faced with ultimate vulnerability and was left to ask for help in the most difficult way possible. Her will to live inspires him and he knew that he would fight just the same as her, if in her situation. He also believes someone would help his family just the same. These are the types of friendships he instills. After next week they will be forever connected in life; not only by a kidney, but by a grateful appreciation for a selfless action. Both of them rewarded in the most amazing way possible.
   We plan to update you in the future and hope you're all making a positive difference, no matter how big or small. Ramah left me to wrap this up anyway I saw fit, so with that I leave everyone with a video from Talib Kweli....

Scotty J ~ "Life is a beautiful struggle."

 

A View from a Half-Jew's Shoes

   This morning I read, 30 Of The Most Powerful Images Ever (linked at the bottom of the page). The photos captured the best and worst of the human-condition; all from different places and times. As difficult as it was, I pictured myself in each individual image. Though all of them were extremely powerful, a couple in particular drummed up some incredible personal emotions and insight. The capacity of vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts and experiences of another person is called empathy. The phrase, "..putting yourself in someone else's shoes..", is a figurative expression perfectly explaining it. That being said, I don't want you to understand my post today... I want you to FEEL it.

   I am half-Jewish and damn proud of it. There has always been an ongoing debate about the differences of Jewish ethnicity and religion. This is arguable on so many levels, it's not even funny. Well maybe a little bit because most of the Jews I know, have a great sense of humor. Regardless, it's my heritage and I love it. I have in the past and will always stick up for the Jewish people in this world. Now let me show you one of the pictures that moved me, from the article I mentioned.

This is the inside of a gas chamber at Auschwitz (Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp) - Poland

   I saw this picture and my heart stopped, my eyes welled up with tears and an anger started to burn deep in the pit of my stomach. Some of my Jewish ancestors immigrated from Poland at the beginning of the twentieth-century. Though it's inconclusive, I imagine some of them stayed right there. If you can't tell what those lines are on the wall; they're fingernail scratches. They signify the final desperate actions of people fighting for just one more breath. As I stared at this photo, I started to think that some of those death marks on the wall could easily be from my own relatives' hands. Then I imagined myself clawing at the concrete, wearing my bloody fingertips down to the bone and praying for a miracle... suddenly I flashed back to sitting here in front of my computer, overwhelmed with helplessness.

BEAR JEW (photo not from mentioned article)

   If I were presented with the opportunity to fight in that war; I would have done indescribably horrific things to the opposition. Let me put it like this, anyone that has watched the movie Inglorious Basterds remembers the "Bear Jew", right? What you saw him do in that movie, would've been just the tip of the iceberg for me. I would have been legendarily more cruel than Hitler himself. It's strange that we justify punishing cruelty with more cruelty; and of course we base that on the phrase, "Well HE started it!". This is one of those things where my empathy is getting the best of me and I am beyond grateful that none of this was my calling in life.

   Sorry about that everyone. That was rather revealing, but as you all can tell it's a sensitive subject for me. In my past, I have literally been in fist-fights over my heritage. I don't go in search of these situations, but on a few rare occasions it has come to that. Most people are just being ignorant when they say something offensive; a few gentle words about their offensiveness and that brings them back to an embarrassing reality. However, some people take embarrassment as the ultimate insult and others are literally just full of hate. It's schmucks like this that are hard to walk away from because they will usually try to punch you in the back of the head. This is where the term "Jew 'em down" isn't about money to me, but about a Jew knocking you down on the ground. Plain and simple, it's just ridiculous.

These are the graves of a Catholic woman and her Protestant husband in Holland circa 1888

   The picture above, to me, represents a very true form of love. They did not live by the status quo and they even found a way to stay with one another for eternity. When I saw this in the article, it immediately made me think of my failed relationships of the past. Those iconic hands holding one another made mine feel rather empty. Twice in my life, I have had a girlfriend's parent share with them their discomfort about me being Jewish. Which in turn creates a whole new set of challenges that I have never been able to overcome. The first time it happened, I chalked it up to being young. When it happened in my last relationship, I did my best to navigate through it. We never fully came back from that. My girlfriend even had the nerve to say, "I want my parents to like you.", but what was that supposed to take, going back in a time machine to prevent my Jewishness? You would think the people of the 21st century could let those things go, but I digress. In all reality, these women lacked compassion and empathy almost altogether. My own parents are very much a future version of this couple in the picture and I'm certainly never going to trade in who I am for anything.    

   According to the research at Hebrew University, there is approximately 14 million Jews on the planet. Which amounts to about 0.2% of mankind! The fact that my Gentile mother fell in love, married and had two sons with my Jewish father is absolutely incredible to me. This, even after both of them suffered the pain and anguish of divorce from previous marriages. Talk about overcoming some serious adversity in this world; they are an amazingly beautiful couple. They are the first to tell you that relationships can't always be 50/50; life happens and that can bring you down sometimes. They willingly communicate and prove their love by inspiring, motivating and supporting each other in their own personal quests. Also, they always make time for an adventure together. Just the two of them. I don't use the word cute a lot, but they really are the cutest. They may never read this, but I love the example they set for the world.

This where all of my good looks come from, right here!

   Now I only used 2 out of 30 pictures from that article because they hit closest to home for me. They reminded me of who I am, where I come from and the infinite possibilities of my future. There are some photos in that article so incredible, you will literally lose your breath. They will conjure some of the most intense thoughts and emotions of your human spirit. They portray fatherhood, famine, appreciation, genocide, love, devastation, relief, commitment, compassion, happiness and tragedy (among other things.). This article was not for the faint-hearted. Personally, for me, it made my heart grow bigger. Anyone out there who does read that article and cannot put themselves in these peoples' shoes; this is what I have to say to you... 

   Those who typically lack empathy suffer from the woes of jealousy and envy. You spend your lives turning supposed loved ones into puppets for your own benefit. You are master manipulators, selfish with your emotions and have no regard for the people who move mountains for you. It's people like you that contribute to our decay. It's people like you that are responsible for a lot of the darkness we see in this world. It's people like you that force tragedies on others. It's people like you that make me glad to be me.

I'm just trying to speak up for my fellow half-Jews out there!

   Being half-Jewish may have hindered me with others at times, but has genuinely taught me about appreciating love in itself. I certainly would not be here without it. Thanks Mom and Dad! The closet anti-Semites of the world used to hurt my feelings, but now are completely laughable. They can't be themselves because they can't stand themselves, it's hilarious. No matter what anyone wants to argue with me, I hold my heritage close to my heart. The Jewish people have thrived among adversity and fought against oppression for thousands of years. We have done great things for humanity and we love to coexist in this world. Back one of us into a corner though, you better be prepared to get all 14 million of us up your ass. SHALOM!

Scotty J ~ "Love is like a fart. If you have to force it, it's probably shit."

Click here to read "30 Of The Most Powerful Images Ever"

Mid-Winter Break - A Rather Forward Reminder

 Needless to say, we've had a harsh winter in West Michigan this year. School closings, canceled events, tragedy-causing road conditions and sub-zero temperatures have been affecting regular everyday life as we know it. My Facebook feed has never been uglier with negative comments about our beautiful home. Let's try to get past that, my friends, and take a look at the bigger picture.

Embrace it, don't hate it!

   I drove a plow truck for a handful of years; claiming that I hated the snow and loved getting it out of peoples' way. Today when I look back on my snow-plowing years... I realize that it wasn't "hate" for the snow that kept me out there, but the adventure Mother Nature had waiting for me. I braved countless storms, helped stranded motorists and cleared a path for the "worker-bees" of my community. Ahhhhhhhh... what a refreshing and grand perspective. The winter of 2014 (alone) has offered an array of valuable life-lessons for me to not even dare continue hating something of which I have no control. 

   Mother Nature has done an incredible job of breaking up the monotony of our daily lives this winter. She proved that, no matter how much we try to defy her, SHE is in charge. She does not care about what time we have to be at our cubicles, when our next deadline is coming or catching flak from someone generically named "Management". Simply put, none of those things are natural. All we do when we complain about these things is prove that humans are capable of being much colder than the weather itself. We deserve to get snowed-in, we deserve an occasional leak in the roof and we deserve feeling helpless about it all. Many of us are desensitized from a true connection with the outside world. The fantasy that we are above all other things on this planet has been shattered by Mother Nature this winter... and it's fucking gorgeous.

"I hope you take the road less traveled and I hope you find the courage to grow." - Rebelution

   Last week I made a Facebook post that asked, "If you could take Mother Nature on a date, what would the two of you do?". The replies were adventurous, loving, honest, humorous, sexual, violent and some even sought forgiveness. I'd say the reply that made me smile the most was, "I would snow plow through her pillowy mounds and then travel south to hit golf clubs off of her well manicured fairway.", because who doesn't love a good sexual innuendo??

   If it were me, I would grab her by the hand and thank her for The Great Lakes. Together we would forage the land for the freshest bounty, head to the beach and prepare it over an open fire. She would teach me about Earth's mortality and I would write her a poem. We would spend the rest of the night laying in the sand, counting the shimmering stars overhead and letting our dreams dance together. When the early morning sun breaks over the horizon; I would gently touch her face and kiss her with passion. Our actions would speak louder than words and at that moment... I would be one with Mother Nature. Intimate, I know.

   Intimacy is a close, familiar, affectionate personal relationship. We owe that to Mother Nature - every moment of everyday. In actuality, her heart revolves around the sun and her spirit is moved by the moon. We can see it in the tides, taste it in our gardens and feel it in the air. Instead, we're too busy blaming her for our misfortunes. This is all due to a lack of intimacy with the outdoors. She doesn't blame us for being human, come on now!!

   Every season has pros and cons, but if we focus on the latter we are only conning ourselves. Here is my response to all of those shitty Facebook posts... Teachers - enough of being bitter about having to work into your summer. Be grateful that your students and co-workers are safe and sound on snow days. Snow Removal Specialists - you signed up for this, accept the glory of winter. Road Ragers - you deserve to be in the ditch. Think about the safety of your friends and family before you ride our asses and cause legitimate danger. Fake Winter Enthusiasts - you waste our lives twice by saying (in the late fall) you can't wait to hit the slopes, but when the snow actually comes you say you're "over-it". Let me be the first to correct you assholes... you're "under-it" and you probably always will be too.

   It has taken me twenty West Michigan winters to finally gain this perspective. The snow was always a love-hate relationship over those years. Now, I know in my heart that I love it here and to "hate" over being inconvenienced by something, is a waste of life. Those of you who really can't stand dealing with the snow, move. You can do it, I believe in you. I would think that's much easier than spreading hate for a few months out of the year anyway. 

   Mother Nature challenges us everyday to be better human-beings and that's because she is the boss. Every time we complain about her, we fail this challenge, we fail our fellow humans and we fail ourselves. Love her, respect her, praise her and only expect her to be unpredictable. Everything we know is because of her. She makes life, in itself, possible. One last thing... Shout-out to all of those true Winter Warriors carrying the torch out there. Your passion lights the way for the rest of us, thank you so much for leading by example!

That's a Winter Wrecking Crew right there!

Scotty J ~

"If I really wanted to stick my dick in Mother Nature, it's simple. I'd just take off my pants and walk outside."

Frozen or thawed, Lake Michigan always makes me smile. (PHOTO CREDIT: Clark Jansen - Holland, MI)

Saving Scotty Jacobs - Feeling huMAN

   Alright, in the past two weeks I tied up my remaining loose ends from last year. It drummed up the kind of emotions that made it tough to think clearly and stay positive. The kettlebell, however, refused to let me down; it always stays true, regardless of the circumstances. This in turn kept me honest with every routine and had me dig deeper into my true self.

   I don't want people to think Hardstyle kettlebell techniques are some figurative light at the end of some dark tunnel. Hardstyle is the guiding light that illuminates our surroundings, our strength and our lives; no matter what path we choose to walk. Everyday that I pick up the kettlebell it always teaches me more about myself, how I understand the world and what I can do to make a difference in it. Hardstyle builds my self-worth and empowers me to live honestly. Hell, I usually train in my boxer-briefs!! A lack of clothing (for me) always provides a massive influx of productivity.
   This gives me the perfect chance to honestly tell you a little bit about myself. In my youth I wore "husky" sized jeans, sometimes swam with a t-shirt on and would get embarrassed about my body. I also know, I'm not the only man out there with a past like this. Fortunately I still maintained an enthusiastic lifestyle of socializing, playing sports and making lifelong friendships. Then eventually, I grew into being a man (and maybe part black bear.).
   I am a real man, covered in hair; with salt and pepper on my scalp, bushy squirrel tails over my eyes and a beard that loves to muff dive. I have dark curly fibrous man-threads draped over my shoulders, flowing down my chest, back and the rest of my entire body. I sweat from every single pore and I'll go to war with an ingrown hair. My musk is woodsy, natural and passionate - with a healthy pinch of Kosher salt. My wide frame is heavy with muscle, fat and love. My scars tell stories. My big feet stink sometimes. I fart. I burp. I snore when I sleep. I make no excuses for being this way. In fact, I truly embrace it. If I could put it bluntly... you would find a man like me stark naked, finger-painting a cave wall faster than you would see me featured in GQ Magazine.
   Well men, I know there are a ton of you out there just like me. Enough is enough already! We let the "pretty" people have their moment; now it's our job to help the world FEEL HUMAN! We have to rock what we've got and put the kibosh on any social stigma that prevents us from revealing our manliness. Like we really give a shit if the slender guy with the 8-pack of abs and the thighs that don't touch looks comfortable on the XXL sized underwear package. Seriously, I mean what the fuck are they trying to tell us? If we wear their underwear, we'll look like that guy?? Fuck off, put a real man on there... pussies. I would love to see a a big, hairy fitness model land the lead role in the next BowFlex commercial. Big natural men need to be featured more in the spotlight. We are the "norm", not the underwear models of the world. Any one of you who feels embarrassed by being your natural self or showing off your natural self, this post is for you. I am going to go ahead and lead by example here:

REAL MEN DRINK COFFEE IN THEIR FRUIT OF THE LOOMS.

DAY 20 - MAN UP - DAMN THAT KETTLEBELL IS SEXY!!

THE NATURAL MAN FINDS COMFORT IN ANY SURROUNDINGS

   I had an awesome correspondence with a friend over the weekend, that literally left me smiling. She said, "I don't think we would be where we are or who we are without facing some adversity along the way.", and it's so true. Life passes by regardless of us living it up or letting it happen to us. How we live through each experience is what defines us along the way. I know what it's like to be embarrassed of myself, afraid of myself and disappointed in myself - it's no way to live. The only way to overcome those obstacles, is to believe in yourself!! (recurring anecdote - I hope you're all catching on!!)
   Before my "man rant" I mentioned how Hardstyle kettlebell training has helped me to develop a genuine sense of self-worth. I am 45 days into training and have the rest of my life to go! This is my journey and I'm not interested in just showing you some pictures of what I look like a year from now. The self-worth is forged in the actual work, not the outcome. The one consistent outcome in life, is death. Results are meaningless if you can't celebrate the energy it took to reach them.
   There is unfathomable value when it comes to Hardstyle training. I don't spend my days in a gym that costs an arm and a leg, I don't pay some guy to accost me over my shoulder - telling me to "try harder" and I don't have to buy a bunch of gimmicky "fitness" bullshit that tells me how I progressed for the day. My investments are the kettlebell itself and the education I need to maximize its use. Strength, health, longevity, endurance and peace of mind grow with every single repetition. I've learned that these things are most important: Truthfully redefine yourself as often as you need, allow yourself to feel human, endorse that feeling everyday and LIVE YOUR LIFE!

Take action.

Scotty J ~

"Characterize people by their actions and you will never be fooled by their words."
- D. Wood






 
   

Saving Scotty Jacobs: Four Weeks and a Day

   As of yesterday, I have completed four weeks of Kettlebell training. I have only taken two days off in the last month and I feel extremely rewarded with my progress. My initial training only involved two techniques - double hand swings and goblet squats. I have since incorporated one-arm swings and Turkish-get-ups, which have an even more amazing effect on my body. I have not even tempted myself with a sip of pop since the day after Christmas, I have focused on eliminating junk food from my cupboards and filling my usual "munchies" quota with cottage cheese and fruit.

That is some "Old Fashioned Goodness" right there!!

   On December 16, 2013... I hopped on a scale for the first time in a looooooong time. I weighed in at an unkempt 301 lbs! I felt extra fat in the worse way, but found a way to forgive myself and seek a better perspective on LIVING MY LIFE! Today is Monday January 27, 2014 and I'm proud to say in just six weeks I have already made it down to 268 lbs!! Can you believe that?!? I have shed off thirty-three pounds in just six weeks! There are no games or gimmicks here everybody, just dedication.
   I made a commitment to myself and asked all of the readers here on Brass-Knuckle Love Butter to hold me accountable. That is all it has taken for me to stay focused on working hard everyday. Now I don't want to leave out my awesome trainer, Matt Powell, for being able to read my level of enthusiasm and assigning me daily challenges that get me out of my comfort zone. Our ability to communicate openly about my progress makes a world of difference.

Matt Powell and "Ralphie" teaching "Hardstyle". (YOU'LL SHOOT YOUR EYE OUT!)

   Since writing these Saving Scotty Jacobs posts, I have had multiple people inquire about Matt's expertise and availability. He started a Facebook page (Check it out here!) to easier field all inquiries, educate through use of StrongFirst media, post his own progress in "Hardstyle" Kettlebell training (there is an awesome video of him doing a Turkish-get-up with a 106 lbs Kettlebell!!) and, in the future, incorporating his own blog. I am also proud to announce that two of my good buddies have started training with Powell in the last 2 weeks and I look forward to sharing their progress here soon. Not only will I focus on their training, but lifestyle changes as well.

Matt Powell training his new Girya (student of kettlebell), Brewski!

   Lifestyle is a way of life or style of living that reflects the attitudes and values of a person or group. My biggest lifestyle change has been my approach towards food and other consumables. I do the obvious limiting of carbs and processed foods ("limiting" being the key word.). Water has always been tough for me to include on a daily basis, but I have consciously been drinking eleven glasses a day. This keeps me hydrated for my training sessions and much less hungry. As I mentioned earlier, cottage cheese has been a game changer. I have yet to break the habit of opening the 'fridge when I walk by it. Every single time I walk by, I just have to sneak a peak. I keep two quarts of cottage cheese right on the very front of the shelf, forcing that to be my "go to" when I'm hungry. I take a bite of cottage cheese before I decide that I am going to eat anything else. It usually curbs my appetite right away. The one daily treat I look forward to is chocolate milk and I only make it for myself after I am done training for the day. It is definitely my favorite fucking incentive!

Mmmmmmmmmm, I love you.

   I realize in my first Saving Scotty Jacobs post, I mentioned wanting to lose sixty pounds. That comment was really just a shot in the dark. "Hardstyle" training is not about weight-loss, but strength and health for life. After immersing myself in it for just this short period of time, I realize how addicted I already am to it. The more I train, the more I want from it. I am sure reaching my sixty pound goal will be accomplished, but that result has become meaningless. Since beginning all of this, the way I feel on the inside has changed completely.
   I want more than to just lose a few pounds. I want to work towards a certification and be able to teach the art of "Hardstyle" Kettlebells. This is a realistic goal that I am going to accomplish in the long term. The amount of time it takes for me to reach it will just be an awesome part of my life's great fucking adventure. The feedback from readers makes me want to be able to offer more and I could not think of a better way than working towards this certification. There is no better way to inspire and motivate others than to obtain the knowledge and skill it takes to educate them and lead by example!
   I know what it's like to sit on my ass and feel sorry for myself; I don't blame anyone for putting themselves through that either. Life can make us feel lost from time to time and we'll stay that way if we never stop and ask for directions. Pride is that double-edged sword that we are quick to fall on when challenged. Only when we set it aside is when we can take full control of our lives. Our futures are out there... are we going to wait for them to come to us?? or are we going to make them happen??? It's up to us!

Scotty J ~ "We always have the best intentions when we are at our worst. Let's get the fuck up and do something!!"

Saving Scotty Jacobs: TRY ANYTHING ONCE

  Last week I covered my friend and personal trainer, Matt Powell. I aimed to simplify his character as a whole by asking him what three words the people closest to him would use to describe him. His reply, "TRY ANYTHING ONCE." Say it out loud to yourself... TRY ANYTHING ONCE (felt good, didn't it??). There is something incredibly liberating about this three-word-mantra. It is not necessarily about taking risks, but eliminating regrets.

   When I regret something, I always feel it in the pit of my stomach and from there it spreads like cancer. In the past, I have let it completely disable me. This is where TRY ANYTHING ONCE makes the difference. If I am regretting something I have not tried, well that's easy to remedy. Get the fuck up and try it! If regret is the result of something I have tried, then it's time to move on and try something else. No more letting negative emotions take up too much of my time. Life is short!

   A few years back, I met this young woman named Jenny. I was completely infatuated with her ability to experience life. She was brilliant and adventurous with a knack for feeding her spirit and soul. She was passionate about the earth, loved honey bees and seemed to always know where to find her smile. Jenny was the first person I ever took notice of having this TRY ANYTHING ONCE attitude. When opportunity knocked, she graciously answered.

Of course she's holding a pig in her arms...why not?!?

   Opportunity, by definition, is a set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something. It really is that simple of a formula. I'm not a big fan of fancy-pants math/science problems, but the variables for opportunity are seemingly endless. I write to inspire and record a podcast to make others laugh, but to have content for either I have to experience life. The experiences are mostly about the little things like walking on an iced-over lake, giving a homeless person a spare jacket from my trunk when it's 0 degrees, perfecting baby-back ribs in the oven and talking dirty with a new friend. Tiny moments like these create the foundation for opportunity. Hopefully they will lead me to spear fishing for pike, feeding the homeless, being the king of a potluck and getting butt-naked with someone who makes me smile.

   We miss 100% of the shots we don't take. This obvious truth aligns with just about anything in life. It is the key to conquering fears, overcoming objections, reaching goals and beyond. All of the research in the world, on a particular interest, is meaningless if you never do it. If you're interested in something, take a shot at it. I completely understand wanting to be prepared, but a lot of the time we miss our chance to seize the moment and fall into that shitty feeling of regret. TRY ANYTHING ONCE. Make the experience itself your goal and the outcome (more often than not) will always be beneficial. We learn from our experiences, not our lack of them. On the chance that a potential experience backfired, don't fret. Mistakes are just life's lessons in disguise. Trust me on this one everybody, I have found myself learning plenty of "life's lessons".
   I started this post with the incredible image of a Jack Kerouac quote. I honestly think it was the nicest way to say "fuck you" to every close-minded schmuck out there. Embrace the TRY ANYTHING ONCE mentality and change your own world. Encourage the experiences in life and change someone else's world. Let the domino effect begin, make a difference for yourself, inspire those closest to you and watch them do the same for others. Regret is probably the world's biggest fear, TRY ANYTHING ONCE and lead by example. This world needs it!

TRY ANYTHING ONCE!

Scotty J ~ "Curious George paved the way. TRY ANYTHING ONCE and make it a great day!"

Get it Buddy!!

Saving Scotty Jacobs: We're Not Working Out, We Are Training

   Today marks the first day I have actually worked in nearly seven months. This in itself, is a milestone. I have never felt more mentally prepared for an opportunity in my entire life. There are plenty of factors attributed to this, but clearly being more active for my own well-being trumps them all. In my previous Saving Scotty Jacobs posts, I mentioned the almighty kettlebell (literally, my new best friend.). My enthusiasm is not only about the kettlebell routine itself, but the man behind them... Mr. Matt Powell.

   Prior to being my trainer, Matt Powell and I have been friends for a number of years. When we were younger, we could party it up with the best of 'em. Let's just say we contributed to some of that weathered and rustic charm in Kalamazoo's Vine Neighborhood. As the years passed by our lives went separate directions, but thanks to social media.. our friendship grew stronger. 

   Powell got into weight training his freshmen year of high school, originally playing football. After high school and a few years of embracing a strict "social" schedule, he eventually joined the Marine Corps. In the Marines he got the opportunity to go to Reconnaissance school. To put things in a better perspective, SEALs are the Navy's response to Recon Marines; and were trained by them in the beginning. He is a humble guy, but I will attest... he is definitely a badass. Here is where he first learned about kettlebells, CrossFit, and the importance of full body conditioning (and where being "bigger" is not necessarily better.). On his first deployment to Afghanistan they only had kettlebells, so he was forced to use them. He told me he was fortunate enough to have some books written by Pavel Tsatsouline, Chairman of StrongFirst. Which is the pinnacle of "Hardstyle" kettlebell training and the basis of his training today.

These are the Real American Heroes. Matt Powell is on the right.

    He has a bachelors of science in exercise science. He is also a Level 1 CrossFit coach, and most proudly... a StrongFirst SFG Level 1 Trainer. In the short-term he plans to become a StrongFirst SFG Level 2 (which means he has to strict military press a 48kg/106lbs kettlebell above his head. Which is fucking insane and fucking awesome all at the same time!). From there, he is going to relocate to Denver, open a kettlebell studio and help teach/train (as many people as he can) in the art of tension...otherwise known as strength.

   When I asked Powell what his attitude towards training was, his response was exactly this: 

"My attitude towards training is NO WASTED REPETITION. Our time on earth is finite and to waste a second is a crime - while physical training is a necessity, it doesn't have to take a long time, be expensive or be boring. Hardstyle Kettlebell training has been described as the closest thing you can get to being in a fight without throwing a punch. You look at a 35lbs kettlebell and it may not look like much, but after a short intro to safety and technique - ten swings will get a reaction from your cardiovascular system, aerobic energy pathway and anaerobic energy pathways (there are two, but I don't want to get too scientific.). The NO WASTED REP also includes the quality of that rep. In Hardstyle, quality trumps quanity EVERY TIME. The Student, me included, must evaluate every repetition and make corrections. Which sometimes makes counting hard, but like I said quality over quantity."

If you're still confused about what NO WASTED REP means you're thinking too hard about it. It's simple, use your body the way it was meant to be used. Say you're moving out of your house, don't just slide a heavy box across the floor - squat down, lift with your legs, use your core and move it like you mean it. When we don't live our lives like this, we get winded tying our shoes or walking up the stairs.  Nobody wants to be a pussy and they certainly won't be if they take advantage of every possible repetition. You guys feel me??

   When Powell and I first got together a couple of weeks ago to start training, he made some things very clear to me. He educated me about the difference between working out and training, which most people don't understand. Training is a systematic approach with a progressive, which means the work gets more difficult. Plan to achieve a goal. Working out is not having a plan. You can get sweaty and even sore, but you will eventually reach a plateau that limits your ability to reach goals. I rely on his expertise and tutelage to keep me focused on my day to day goals. The journey thus far has been incredible. I started on day 1 with an assigned workout to be completed by the end of the day. It did not matter how long it took, how many breaks I needed or how rough I felt. Today is day 15, I am doing more than double the reps of when I started and completing my routines all at once. The noticeable increase in strength and attitude has me exhilarated and only wanting more for myself.

   His approach to training individuals is simple and refreshing. Do not waste his time because he certainly is not wasting yours. Powell is well aware that the "Hardstyle" of training is not for everyone and has no issues referring another trainer, if need be. He will teach you how to train your body in such a way that you will age with physical grace. Anyone out there that has wiped an old person's ass, knows what I am talking about. Most importantly, he stays humble and teaches others to take that same approach. The ultimate goal is health and strength for life. In the instance that you might get hurt (doing anything), it's possible you will have to lighten your routine to care for your body. This becomes a breaking point for most people because when they get back after it, they think they should be able to do what they already have accomplished. That type of mentality will usually result in further injury or worst-case-scenario... quitting altogether. When being humble there are no set-backs, only realistic goals set by realistic conditions.

   My daily brawl with the kettlebell satisfies my mind, body and soul. I have never had a reaction to physical activity like this in my entire life. Powell had always talked to me about them with great enthusiasm and now I understand why that is. Honestly though, I can tell everyone his wealth of knowledge, humble attitude and no-nonsense approach have a lot to do with it. He is dedicated to training me as far as I am willing to take myself. I check in with him, almost daily, and through my progress reports he makes an educated enhancement to my training regimen. Never do I have to lie or feel intimidated when one of my days gets the best of me. I simply share with him my results and he only has words of encouragement with a focus on the next day.

   Aside from all of the training Matt Powell does, he enjoy other things like snowboarding, mountain biking, playing first-person shooters, reading and having a good laugh at just about anything. He is not your "average Joe" and I have always felt privileged having him as a friend. As much as he would not make a big deal out of himself, he is Saving Scotty Jacobs and to me...that means the world.

Thanks Brother!!

He might kill me for this one, but this picture was just too priceless!

   When I asked him, "If I asked the people closest to you to describe you in three words, what would they say?", his reply was simple and direct...

"TRY ANYTHING ONCE."

Scotty J - "Don't let your body expire before your life does!"

Check out Matt Powell's StrongFirst Instructor profile here: http://www.strongfirst.com/instructors/25950/matt-powell/

If anyone is interested in contacting him about personal training, please send me a message and I will pass your information along to him. I highly recommend it!!