Pushups and Optimism: September 2010

On the docket for positive news:

ESPN published a story I wrote!

Powder Magazine gave me shout out on their twitter page!

On a much more somber note, September the 11th marks two very significant historical events:

I recall sitting in high school nine years ago, watching the aftermath of the greatest attack on American soil. 2,996 individuals died including the 19 high-jackers that took control of the planes. The death toll consisted of people from 70 different countries. Families, brothers, cousins, fathers, mothers, and friends all died. 9/11 changed the political, economic, and social landscape of the world and it will forever be viewed as the paradigm shift for the globalized society. Regardless of the legitimacy of details, the fact remains that fellow humans lost their lives in the most unforgivable, appalling, and deplorable events in my lifetime and I will never be at ease with the memories from that day.

September 11th is also the birthday of a very dear friend, Jacob Martin Maxfield, who died August 10th, 2008 at the age of 21. Jacob was my childhood friend. We skied together, hung out at skateparks, and matched trick for trick on trampolines throughout middle school. He was an athlete, a friend, and soon hung up his snowboard gear for a pair of basketball shoes as he poured his time and energy into high school sports. The last time we hung out, we were at Leslie's graduation party and Jake was genuinely stoked to make the move to Colorado, work on a farm, and visit the mountains in the winter. "Yeah Bishop! It will be just like old times. You can show me a thing or two about them terrain parks you hit out west" I can still hear his sarcastic New England accent as we drank healthy doses of fermented beverages and nostalgia the night before I went to Spain in 2008. That was my last time seeing Jake. The last memories I have of a childhood friend who taunted, encouraged, and congratulated me throughout my life.

When we're young, mortality is a word that we choose not to acknowledge. Unfortunately, reality surfaces far too aggressively takes away loved ones far too frequently. Looking back, I'm happy to report the last memory I have of my friend involves partying and enjoying our time together. Chances are, if Jake knew his death would come at an untimely fashion, he would welcome it with open arms and reassure everyone that he's thoroughly satisfied with his life. After all, life is about being happy, doing what you love, and finding others to share your passions with. Through life, Jake was a blessing to those around him and will always serve as a reminder that our time here should be enjoyed, savored, and lived to the fullest extent. While some spend years searching for happiness, Jake embraced it everyday, attacked the challenges of his life, and pursued his dreams to the fullest.

Be well buddy! I cannot wait to party with you in the afterlife.

Love your friend,

- Joshua T. Bishop