Something to Share

maya-2

In Maya’s latest article for Athleta Chi, she opens up about lifting kettlebells beyond sport.

18 Responses to “Something to Share”

  1. Lisa B says:

    Thank you for sharing Maya – Mateo is the luckiest little boy to be a part of such a loving family ( I just love the photo)…. as I have said many times in the past, you and Steven are the 2 strongest people I know, in body, mind and spirit….I know that Mateo will reap the benefits of your approach to life, just as both of you have influenced all of us in your IC community ~
    In a short amount of time, but with a huge amount of dedication and hard work, you have created an awareness of the Kettlebell Sport that has become infectious in the IC Community, as well as successful!!!!
    Lots of love and hugs to all of you, always….

  2. Surya says:

    Thank you for sharing this piece with us Maya. It takes tremendous courage to be so vulnerable and disclose such a deeply personal piece of your life. I am amazed that in the midst of coming to terms with this in your personal life you continue to be so present to all of us at the IC. I am moved to know that you have found moments of peace, inspiration, and joy through lifting Kettelbells. This of course is also true for me not only in my love of kettlebells but in my love of the IC. We support you to take the time you need to focus on family-your commitment to wellness, happiness, and leading a balanced positive life is inspiring! I have no doubt that through your dedication, love, and support ( as well as that of Steve and the rest of your family) your son will flourish. Much respect Maya!!

  3. The Hoyer-Nielsen family says:

    We love you Maya.

  4. Abbe says:

    Maya, you brought tears to me eyes. I was also drawn in by the beautiful photo and had to read the story that went with it. Thank you for trusting us to share, and I hope you all feel the love and support coming right back to you.

  5. Rachel Q. says:

    Dear Maya, Steven, and Mateo-

    I’ve read this article a few times this morning, and I keep needing to take the space to think about it before responding. Needless to say, it brought tears to my eyes and a heaviness to my heart thinking about the grief, struggles, and unexpected challenges that your family has encountered. But it also was incredibly inspiring to read about the tremendous joy and love that you have for each other. To be able to seek the positives and blessings in an unexpected chapter in your lives is a true testament to your strength as parents, as a partnership, and as individuals. I am not surprised that the two of you have responded to this open door with commitment and open arms.

    Maya, you already are the winner of Best Mom. I know that right now, and probably over the next few months and years, that you won’t always feel that way. But please know that we are cheering for you. I know that you probably feel some guilt about reaffirming your commitment to kettlebell sport, but that is so important to your well-being. You and the rest of the KB team have blazed new trails, and we want to continue to watch your journey. Being a mom is a full-time job, and you cannot provide for and support your family unless you are nurtured. So please know that we support you.

    And Steven, I’m sure this has been a life-altering time for you as well, in your roles of husband and father, and also given your coaching and the move to the new space. All of us in the IC community are happy to help in any way.

    Thanks so much for sharing this personal journey. It means so much.

  6. Melissa says:

    Hi you guys. I’ve known other families, both personally and professionally, with similar circumstances to your own. There is one thing that has always struck me. With the unexpected challenges, there are also unexpected rewards. I am certain that those rewards will be a big part of your experience. Here’s to a healthy and happy new year. xo.

  7. Miriam says:

    Maya and Steve,

    One of the most important things I have learned over the past six years as a parent is the immense importance of doing things I love – for (and often) by myself. It makes me a better parent, a better partner and a happier person. The IC has give me that opportunity to do something I love during good times and bad times. I hope that we can all be here to support both of you in 2010 and beyond to do the things that feed your souls, make you happy and enable you to face each day with courage. Miriam

  8. Tracy C says:

    Thank you Maya for sharing this – I don’t know what to say beyond everyone else, except that I agree with their sentiments, totally.
    You guys are like super heros with the tenderest of hearts!
    You know I have a lot of love and respect for you Steve and Maya
    …… y Mama a Mama: you rock.

  9. Miki says:

    Maya, Your article & that picture brought tears to my eyes! Thank you for opening up about Mateo. You are strong and graceful and have the support of the IC community. Wishing you and family all the best in the New Year. Much Love. Miki

  10. Dave H. says:

    Thank you for trusting us. Sharing such a deeply personal situation is a strong statement about the IC community that you and Steven have created. My nephew is autistic–Eliot is now 10 years old–so I understand some of what you are dealing with. Mateo is blessed to have you two as his parents; as you are to have Mateo as your son.

    With love, understanding and support.

    Your friend, Dave

  11. Julie B says:

    I went to Core this past Wed. for Kettle Bells for the first time in a long time, and left with a smile on my face . It took me to a place mentally that I needed to be (or took me away from a place where I didn’t need to be). Perhaps I had a glimpse into your passion for KBs. I didn’t think I could respect you and Steve much more than I already did until I read your article. Maya, you are my hero.

  12. Maya says:

    There is nothing more powerful than sending a child your thoughts and prayers because it promotes hope and healing. We are deeply humbled and full of immense gratitude for every word of encouragement and support posted here.

  13. Jenny (K.) says:

    Maya, I’ve been thinking about your article for the past two days. I haven’t known how to respond to it. Luckily, now I’m back at the blog and get to read the lovely, insightful comments written by all of your friends and supporters. It’s all true. You are a goddess of a mom. You are caring for your beautiful child and family. And, you could not do it without taking care of yourself. I like Steve’s description of “lifting kettlebells beyond sport”. Since I met you and Steve at the Ice Chamber, I’ve felt more prepared for the inevitable heavy lifting that life delivers. I want to thank you for creating an environment where we all feel so hopeful about our own possibilities and the power of loving support for one another. I hope that you, Steve and Mateo will feel that coming back at you in spades in the coming weeks, months and years.

  14. p-hump says:

    Life is hard and full of challenges. Every day. Who is best suited to handle it? Not me. I kick and scream too. Maya, you lead by example. You and Steve are as lucky to have Mateo as he is having the both of you.

  15. Great article Maya – very inspirational.

  16. Liz J. says:

    Maya,

    Thank you for sharing this with all of us, and thank you for always being open. It allows us to learn so much from you about power, strength, and grace. Mateo is blessed to have you and Steve as parents; the both of you are so inspirational. My thoughts, prayers, and well wishes are with you and your family.

  17. Rachel Q. says:

    I wanted to add one thing. I *SO* admire the grace and courage that you two have shown. I want to make sure you know that it’s ok to share the “ugly” days with us, too. The days of rage and confusion and guilt and fatigue and “how am I going to get through this?!?!” times. We will be here for you both on the days that feel manageable and also on the days that feel so, so trying. So don’t hesitate to ask for help or support or even just an ear (or two) when you need to vent!

    Sending your family lots of love this holiday season!

  18. Megan says:

    here it is, the very end of December, and it was just today that someone told me of what you wrote, Maya, in this month’s blog. i’ve been walking around heavy hearted all day. And at the same time, as someone else said, as challenging as life can and is (and you have been dealt a real big one), you have also been given the gift of Mateo = everything he is, challenges and joys. I wish you all the love, health, and togetherness in this coming year. My love to all 3 of you. M

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