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As I enter my last week living in Chicago, I have a ton of memories and thoughts going through my head. People have been asking me if I’m excited or nervous but I haven’t felt either. If there is one thing I’ve been thinking about, it’s been the moments that have led me to this point in my life. In this article, I will talk about memorable people and moments that have been impactful to my life and ultimately led me to where I’m at today.
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10-24-2011:
Starting with the thumbnail of this article which is a photo of Willis Tower. This was taken on Day 1 of my new job (career) and what began my journey into corporate America. I was young, ambitious, and couldn’t wait to see what the city could offer. I quickly jumped head first into the scene of working as much as I could, happy hours, and building friendships within these four walls. Being raised in a family where nobody worked in corporate America (yet) made me feel like I did something right in life. I was a college graduate from parents who came to America from Mexico. While this may be normal for some, I truly felt like I was living the American dream.
08-30-2013:
It’s no secret that fitness has become a big part of my life. I’ve joined many gyms but nothing has been more impactful than Fitness Formula Clubs (FFC). I write about FFC because it’s through this community that connected me to people who I will keep in my heart for the rest of my life. It was there that I took my first group fitness class (Chisel) with Ron Mendoza. I remember feeling my heart pound through my chest but all I could hear was Ron yelling “You gotta let it work for ya!” It was that class that got me hooked on the lunch group fitness classes and introduced to Antonio Coke, Steve Parkin, and Lois Miller.
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As a mentor, Antonio Coke has taught me to embrace all aspects of life with an open heart. We are all humans and have the capabilities to adapt to whatever is thrown at us. I’ve seen Antonio go from being an exclusive group fitness instructor to now the business owner of Bodi Shak. It’s the moments of watching him push through the struggles of not just a new small business but in a highly competitive market that motivate me to continue pushing for a better tomorrow. He’s making it happen and pursuing the American dream. Find what moves you…
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For those that know Steve Parkin, you know exactly who he is and what he’s about. For me, Steve is that internal fire that gets me out of bed to break a sweat before most people wake up. He’s that sound in the back of my head that says “Anyone can start. It’s all about where you finish!” Becoming close friends with Steve has taught me the value of putting in the work. I wasn’t always in shape and had terrible self image issues in the past. Steve took me under his wing to reshape my body and showed me the way where I now can empower others.
I will come back to Lois in a minute.
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07-06-2016:
This was the day I flew to Tokyo, Japan on my own. It was this day (well, kind of the next day if you count time change) that I remember getting off the plane and realizing that I was across the world by myself. I was scared, alone, and didn’t know how to get around. It was also this week that I embraced a new culture and a new way of life. I remember the trip coming to an end and me not really ready to head back to the states. What I took from this experience was that I could do anything I put my mind to and that there is a big world out there. I remember the flight home thinking to myself, “I just saw a part of the world that most people I know will never see in their life.” It was this trip that opened my mind and urge to see the rest of the world. I’ve taken many trips since this Japan but this one was special.
I am extremely grateful for that moment.
04-17-2018:
To wrap up FFC, I’d like to speak about the one and only, Lois Miller. Lois is a true light to the world and is someone who sees the best in everyone. If it weren’t for Lois, I wouldn’t be a certified personal trainer or group fitness instructor. It was this date where I led my first tread class (HIIT running class on treadmills). Lois had asked me about two weeks before and I quickly declined. The next morning, I had this weird instinct that made me reach back out to her and ask if I still could. Lois introduced me to the fitness industry but none of this would be happening if it weren’t for her just asking me to teach one class. As always, thank you for believing in me Lois.
Final Thoughts:
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In the last 9 years, I have met a ton of people who have gone in and out of my life. I’ve had my issues with letting people in emotionally and spiritually but these two gentlemen have shown me what true friendship is all about. They’ve seen the ups and downs of my growth and still stick by my side. Words cannot express the bond we share as homies besides I love you.
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At the end of the day, it all comes down to the moment I met Ashton Manton. This woman has changed my life in so many ways that I could write for days. As we prepare for our next chapter in Denver, Colorado, I can’t express how grateful I am for meeting her at the time I did. She is my motivation and partner in life. Love you babe!
Chicago, you were an amazing part of my life and I will never forget these memories. To those who I have met, even if it was for a brief moment, I want to say thank you for sharing a part of your life with me. I’m looking forward to this next chapter and can’t wait to see what’s ahead!
One Love.
-Omar
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