by: Stephanie Gonzalez, CEO & Managing Partner photo by: Jillian Lenser “I fought for this life!” It might seem oxymoronic: that this was the preeminent thought that kept swirling in my head Thanksgiving day. Thanksgiving is supposed to be synonymous with words such as giving, gratitude, grace and blessings. I live and surround myself with a community (both at home and at work) that plays a very purposeful game. A game where winning is always determined by the energy you generate, the thoughts you focus on and the words you speak. All results – of this game of life – are determined by attention and intention. SO…bottom line: words matter! Yet here I was on Thanksgiving day thinking about “my fight.” First, I judged myself for using such a seemingly negative word. Second, I examined why it kept popping up in my head. Third, I realized what it meant to me, why I felt it and then I deliberately claimed it. I claimed it like it was a winning lottery ticket. I understood what those words meant to me and why they were incredibly poignant for me on that Thanksgiving day! The word ‘fight’ generally has a negative connotation. When we think about the word ‘fight’ we may recall or connote: The teenage tantrums we would have with our parents growing up. Being at a dive-bar in our early twenties and staying too long to witness the late night fight broken up by the cops. Being young and in love and fighting feelings of jealousy and control. …As Examples “I fought for this life!” Why is that such a bad thing to say? I fought to earn my grades. I fought for the successful marriage I have. I fought to get pregnant. I fought to break through some generational gaps with my parents to achieve understanding and connection. I fought to help build a brokerage and brand from start-up to established. I fought to find my way back to what my heart really wanted, when – after marriage, kids, career – I lost my way and forgot. I fought to stay up late and get up early to push myself further and farther. The fight was not against anyone or anything. We fight for what we want and believe in. I have scars…I have calyces…and, I have developed new muscles. I ALSO have experienced intense joy…profound accomplishment…and been bursting with gratitude and love. ALL a result of my fight to climb and claim the life I want.