Strangers to Brothers

There are few experiences I've had over the past 34 years here on the 3rd rock from the Sun that have impacted me in such a way that it permanently alters how you see the world. Being on a ministry team in college, watching my bride walk down the aisle, the births of my children, and my divorce are a few. I don't know how many of these moments we get in life but I just had another one.

Jon and Jessica North hosted their first annual Life Retreat this past weekend. Honestly I didn't know what to expect. All I knew was that it would be a bunch of gym rats hanging out and having adventures in the woods. A time of no cell phones and experiencing nature. Now it was definitely that but it was so much more.

First off it was great meeting Jon and Jessica North. For those who don't know, Jon was a national champion weightlifter and they were both at California Strength during the Boom. I knew they would be awesome as I've stalked their podcast for the last 5 years. They definitely measured up to and blew away my expectations. I don't know that I've ever meant more genuine people. It wasn't just meeting and hanging out with people I've looked up to though. The mindset of everyone who came was perfect. There was no drama and no negativity. Our group had the chemistry of people who've been friends for a decade. We came from many walks of life. From an engaged couple, a guy who convinced his good friend to just take a weekend off, all the way to a father son duo where this time last year Joe senior was fighting for his life against cancer.

We conquered fears cliff jumping, tried not to die on some class 4 rapids, and swam upstream with a rope in very cold water on our "hike". We ate amazing prepared meals by the staff at Kidder Creek that was closer to restaurant food than camp food. Our adventure guides felt more like family and mentors than paid staff. At night we had powerful discussions on life, God, and even astro physics. (not very gymrattie)

It was life changing to get out of the office and disconnect from social media for a few days. Being in nature with strangers who feel like brothers and sisters is like nothing I've ever been a part of. God was absolutely present around those campfires and I have no doubt that everyone who was there was brought there for a purpose.

These are people that I will know as family for the rest of my life.

There's so much more I could go on about but for now go to TheAttitudeNation.com and check out Weightlifting Talk on iTunes. I hope to see you next year at the Life Retreat.

Dan Mason
Christan, Dad, Philosopher
Strongman Competitor
Elite Level Powerlifter
Instagram: @RoninStr