“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” — Carl Jung
In a recent blog, I introduced the word selfpromise — a commitment to being true to yourself, even as you seek harmony with others. It’s a powerful counterbalance to compromise, which can often come at the cost of our own needs if we’re not careful.
This past weekend, on August 23rd, I was personally tested in this idea of selfpromise while doing something I love: riding my bike.
The Texas heat was relentless. Still, I found myself signing up for a group ride — encouraged by my sweet husband to choose the faster, longer route. I know he had good intentions; we’ve got a European cycling trip coming up, four straight days and nearly 300 miles. He’s thinking of preparation. And truth be told, I love a good challenge.
But a quiet voice inside me was hesitant. I mentioned my concerns about the heat, hoping to hear encouragement to listen to my body. Instead, I got nudged toward the more intense option. So I silenced that voice and pushed forward — a compromise, maybe, but not entirely aligned with the selfpromise I had made.
The ride started off fine. I enjoyed the first 40 miles, felt strong, steady — even grateful. But by mile 48, the heat had taken its toll. I was drenched, pouring water over my head, trying to stay cool. When we stopped to rest, I told myself, “Only 10 more miles.”
But as we waited to roll out again, the world started spinning. I saw spots. I felt off-balance. And then — for the first time ever — I had to pull the plug.
“I’m staying behind,” I told the ride leader, calling my mother-in-law to come pick me up.
I’ve never sagged before. That decision came with a flood of emotion — disappointment, embarrassment, and even a little shame. But looking back, it was the strongest choice I could have made.
Because here’s the truth: I didn’t fail. I honored my health. I honored my body. I kept myself safe, and maybe even protected others from what could have become a serious situation. That’s what selfpromise really looks like.
We can’t always avoid the hard rides in life. But we can prepare wisely, speak up when something doesn’t feel right, and give ourselves permission to stop when we need to.
If you’re someone who struggles in the heat like I do, here’s what I hope you’ll take away from this:
- Choose the ride that matches your body, not your pride.
- Speak up and trust your intuition, even if others don’t echo your concern.
- Have a safety plan. Know your lifelines. Use them.
- Support others on their journey — don’t push them past their limit.
Heat is no joke. Neither is self-respect. When we push ourselves too far in the name of growth, we risk losing the very thing we’re working toward: longevity in doing what we love.
So this week, make a selfpromise that matters:
👉 Honor your body, your limits, and your voice. The stronger ride is the one where you stay true to yourself.
Why Labor Day Matters: A Tribute to the American Worker
As we head into the long weekend, it’s easy to think of Labor Day as the unofficial end of summer — one last chance for a cookout, a getaway, or a dip in the pool. But behind the sales and the celebrations lies a powerful history that shaped the very fabric of the American workforce.
A Brief History of Labor Day
Labor Day was born out of the labor movement in the late 19th century, during a time when working conditions in America were grueling. Most workers toiled 12-hour days, seven days a week, often in unsafe environments, with little pay and no rights. Even children as young as five were put to work in mills and factories.
As industrialization grew, so did the resistance. Workers began organizing strikes and protests, demanding fair wages, reasonable hours, and safer conditions. One major turning point came after the Pullman Strike of 1894, which ended in violence and national unrest. In an effort to reconcile with the labor movement, President Grover Cleveland signed Labor Day into law as a federal holiday that same year.
Since then, Labor Day has stood as a tribute to the social and economic achievements of the American worker — the backbone of our nation’s strength, prosperity, and well-being.
Why It Still Matters
Labor Day isn’t just about the past — it’s about the progress we’ve made and the importance of protecting that progress. Today, thanks to the sacrifices of generations before us, we enjoy:
- Safer working conditions
- 40-hour workweeks
- Child labor laws
- Minimum wage standards
- Paid time off and benefits
These rights weren’t given — they were fought for. And while the labor landscape continues to evolve, remembering our history helps ensure we don’t take those hard-won protections for granted.
Pass It On
As we enjoy the day off, let’s do more than just relax. Let’s remember — and teach.
Talk to your kids, grandkids, nieces, and nephews about why Labor Day exists. Share the stories of how workers came together to create change. Help them understand that the privileges they may take for granted were once unthinkable for many Americans.
Because when younger generations understand the struggles of those who came before, they’re more likely to value fairness, respect workers, and continue building a better future for all.
This Labor Day, take a moment to honor the everyday heroes — past and present — who’ve shaped the workforce we benefit from today. Then, pass that story along.
Happy Labor Day 🇺🇸
Recipe to Share
Here’s a classic Labor Day recipe that checks all the boxes: delicious, traditional, grill-friendly, and high in protein — perfect for celebrating the working spirit while fueling your body right.
Grilled Garlic Herb Chicken Skewers (High-Protein + Crowd-Pleasing)
These juicy chicken skewers are easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and ideal for backyard cookouts. Each serving delivers over 30g of lean protein, with minimal fat and carbs.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers
Optional (for extra nutrients):
Add bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or red onion to alternate between chicken pieces.
Instructions:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 20–30 minutes if using, to prevent burning.
- In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread chicken (and optional veggies) onto skewers.
- Grill skewers for 5–6 minutes per side, or until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove from grill and let rest a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Why It’s Great for Labor Day:
- Portable and grill-friendly
- Feeds a crowd
- High-protein and low-fat
- Pairs well with classic sides like corn on the cob, grilled veggies, or a chilled quinoa salad