The Abundant Life

Almost a year ago I sat down with my dad’s doctor that had diagnosed him with cancer. He said, “The number one thing my patients ask me for when they are diagnosed with a terminal illness is more time. Time to complete unfinished business. If you only have 24 hours to live, what would you do and would you be satisfied with everything you have pursued? If you have a dream you want to pursue don’t wait another minute, don’t hesitate and go do it!”

During my childhood, I always heard of the desires and dreams my father had. Now nearing the end of his life, his spirit was willing, yet his flesh was weak and unable to pursue the dreams and desires he always spoke about. As my father faced his last days, I was confronted with my own mortality.

Every day is a gift and a blessing. I am thankful that by the grace of God, I have been able to accomplish the goals I set for myself and fulfill many of my childhood dreams except one; learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. For whatever reason I never took the opportunity to pursue this dream until I was shaken out of my complacency by my father’s disease. It was God’s providential timing that I would start my Jiu-Jitsu journey, at this moment and time in my life.

“For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (NASB)

I’m coming close to a year of training Jiu-Jitsu and as I look back on my journey and I realize Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has become more than a martial art to me. It’s a place where I can find brotherhood, camaraderie, a place to train physically and exercise mentally, learn from stressful situations, how to work through adversity. Ultimately Jiu-Jitsu has become a representation of every unfulfilled dream my dad never had a chance to accomplish. Each time I make the decision to drive to class I am using the time gifted to me to pursue my dream. Every time I put on my gi and tie my belt I am reminded that I am living out my dream. I will not take this life for granted and take each present moment to live it abundantly.

“…I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10 (NASB)

I encourage you, my friends, to live your life, don’t waste another moment wishing and waiting but go out and do it! Cherish every breath and moment you have, live it out intensely and intentionally. Whether it’s in the form of jiu-jitsu, Spartan Races, learning to play a musical instrument, learning a new language, traveling, whatever it may be, go out and live it while you still have the health and time.

“Never give up on a dream because of the time it will take to accomplish it, time will pass anyway live your dream.” – Earl Nightingale

Written by Andy Truong

About Andy Truong

Amy is the Managing Director of Team Passos Jiu Jitsu. She is a believer and witness that Jesus performs miracles and uses Jiu Jitsu as a tool to change lives. Amy has a background in organizational development and international economic development. She is passionate about entrepreneurship and business to advance human flourishing. She believes that the most beautiful thing in life is someone enjoying the work of their hands while pursuing their passions to realize their purpose and potential. Amy enjoys cycling, strength training, traveling and exploring life.