Fire

All I can really say about today is this:
the new form absolutely kicked my ass.

I’d convinced myself I was progressing — getting closer, settling in — and then, as new forms often do, it exposed just how much ground still lies ahead. Especially for my legs. Especially today.

The burning was something else entirely. I’m not sure I’ve ever felt anything quite like it. Pure fire in the thighs. A deep, relentless heat that leaves no room for distraction. Every moment makes it very clear where you are — and how far you still have to go.

It hurt.
The fatigue lingered.
Every step afterwards carried a reminder.

And yet… I liked it.

There was something honest about it. Something that made me smile. It reminded me that I’m still capable of stepping beyond my comfort zone — a place I’ve always valued, but have been more cautious about lately after carrying a few years of physical setbacks.

Today was a good reminder.

There’s still plenty of life left in the old dog. More capacity than I sometimes give myself credit for.

Today was fun.
I’ll feel it tomorrow, no doubt.

But tonight I get to rest — tired, satisfied, and quietly pleased — knowing I took on the challenge, stayed engaged, and showed up fully.

Not a bad way to spend a life.