Jason James

- 11/21/2011

Dear Chris (and Lish, Tony, Adriana, Mike, Rey, Jorge, etc.),

With Thanksgiving approaching, I am taking a moment to reflect on all I have to be thankful for. The last four months have been a time of incredible changes. I am in better shape than probably at any other time in my life. I am healthier, with probably a longer life expectancy, more confident, and, most importantly, happier than I have been in quite a while.

This journey through CrossFit and healthier eating has truly made me a better person, inside and out. I owe my success in large part to you, as my coach, through your example and encouragement, as well as to the other owners and coaches at CrossFit Threshold. It only took two years of friends telling me, "Just try it!" until I made up my mind to go for it, but I am so glad I finally did! Following the successes of so many friends and family members before me, I figured that there's gotta be something to this CrossFit stuff. 

Right now I am 45 pounds lighter, able to do pull ups (which I never thought possible), handstand pushups, and who knows what else! I just wanted to take a brief moment to say thank you, thank you, thank you! I look back at the text messages you sent me when I started CrossFit. You had confidence in my ability to succeed way before I ever did. You told me that I had what is takes to be successful in this program. I told you I was not a quitter, and you said, "Hell no, you're a doctor, we just need to channel that effort into improving yourself." I remember telling you I've never done a pull-up and that it would be a miracle if I could. Well, miracles do indeed happen. Maybe one day I will even get a muscle-up!

I know that this is a journey, not a destination, and I truly hope that this becomes just a routine part of my life from here forward. Even as a medical professional with years of education, I have learned so much about diet and nutrition in just a short while. While I know there is no way I could ever repay you for your inspiration, I am trying to do so by "paying it forward," and helping others achieve the changes they need. I wish you nothing but health and happiness. Thanks for being an amazing coach as well as a great friend.

With many heartfelt thanks,
Jason

P.S., Please feel free to share this email with the other owners and coaches, or to use it as a testimonial.