Forged in Fire

The term itself is cliche, and perhaps over used. Better yet, misused, from time to time.

We all have a tendency to be a bit “loosey-goosey” with phrases such as these.

But, what does it actually mean? How does it apply to our lives?

Its roots are derived from the Holy Bible;

Proverbs 27:17 proclaims: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another”. This simple statement has been a calling for all these years to understand that no one is alone. That in order to make yourself better, there is a mutual benefit making others better through mentorship, follower-ship, and leading. (N2Growth)

In other words, strong people grow alongside other strong people. Skills develop when in the presence of others of a similar or greater level.

As stated in my most recent newsletter, I had the pleasure of covering some long running miles with a good friend, assisting him as a pacer in his eventual sub-20 hour finish in a 100 mile footrace.

This has become one of my favorite things in this current life of mine – the moments I spend grinding out some hard ultra-distance miles with this buddy of mine. We bond over the labor of it all, while sharing life lessons, swapping training tidbits, and discussing life as it exists in this very moment.

The end result: a massively increased level of mental fortitude, gained wisdom, and a hardened mind.

A lot of positive outcomes for a mere eleven hours of time. 

And so, naturally, I begin to think: “Why don’t we do more of this?” Speaking both in relation to the running specifically, and in the broader scope of our existence. Why don’t we as people seek out these relationships? If we do, what makes them so hard to come by?

It’s a solid question, really. Something that I ask my students nearly every day – which I discussed recently in a post titled “You Set the Standard.”

It can’t be overstated – the importance of positive assets in your life. Not in terms of money, or by means of fame and recognition, but in the form of mutual leadership and mentorship between you and another person, or set of people.

Shouldn’t that type of relationship be the standard? 

Whether it be a friendship, or a marriage? 

Shouldn’t we aim to surround ourselves with those who call forth our best, and actively work toward bettering themselves alongside us?

We shouldn’t settle for anything less, should we?

Why would we?

Why would you?

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