Embracing the Uncomfortable

A few days ago, as I made my way to my gardening class at the local city college, I found myself walking alongside a gentleman who appeared to be in his late 50s. We were both ascending a particularly steep and lengthy flight of stairs that led up the hillside to the college. The stairs were a challenge, but as we climbed, he struck up a conversation with me, his voice carrying a distinct accent that hinted at his diverse background. As we approached the top, he shared his thoughts on the numerous benefits of climbing steep stairs, not only for physical fitness but also for mental resilience and determination. Curious about my own pursuits, he inquired about my gardening class. I took a moment to share a bit about my amateur experience in gardening, describing my passion for nurturing plants and my eagerness to expand my knowledge in this field. I expressed my desire to learn more about various gardening techniques, plant care, and perhaps even landscape design. In response, he opened up about his own educational journey, revealing that he was in his second year of working toward his associate's degree. He mentioned that he was determined to complete his studies by the end of the school year, even though he was still uncertain about what path he wanted to pursue afterward. What struck me most was his admission that he had started school without speaking a word of English just a year prior. His journey was not just about academic achievement; it was also about personal growth and overcoming significant challenges. He explained that engaging in conversations, such as the one we were having, was part of his self-assigned "homework" to practice his English skills. I was genuinely amazed by his dedication and perseverance. Here was a man in his fifties, balancing a full-time job with his studies, all while learning a new language. His determination to improve himself and embrace the learning process was nothing short of inspirational. I expressed my admiration for his efforts, acknowledging the courage it takes to step out of one’s comfort zone and tackle such formidable challenges. In response, he shared a profound insight: he believed it is crucial to embrace the uncomfortable aspects of life. This philosophy resonated with me deeply, highlighting the importance of facing fears and uncertainties in order to grow and evolve as individuals. Our conversation, which began on a simple note of shared experiences, transformed into a powerful exchange of encouragement and motivation, leaving me with a renewed sense of purpose as I headed into my gardening class.

I asked him his name, "Miguel" he said.

"Miguel, you are a real inspiration to do things that make us scared. Thank you for sharing your story with me."