Recently, I had the privilege of visiting Fayetteville, Arkansas, for an unforgettable weekend at the Coach Cal Camp Fundraiser, hosted at the University of Arkansas. The moment I stepped off the plane, I could feel that special energy in the air, and my focus was clear: turn all expectations into appreciations. It’s a mindset I work hard to cultivate, one that brings me back to the present moment, allowing me to see the beauty in every experience, whether large or small.
A Return to Coaching and ProCamps
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with ProCamps® , an organization that brings together children and adults in unique sports camp experiences alongside top-tier college and professional athletes. It’s not just about playing sports, but about community, mentorship, and creating long-lasting memories. ProCamps continues to have a big impact on young athletes and families, which makes being a part of it so special. For more information, you can visit ProCamps.
This particular weekend, however, wasn’t just about athletics. It was a celebration of community and a way to help raise funds for great causes. Coach John Calipari, who recently made the move from the University of Kentucky to Arkansas, was leading the weekend. Coach Cal has been a friend and mentor for many years, and seeing him step into this new chapter of his career was inspiring. His passion for mentoring young athletes continues to shine, and it was an honor to witness his transition firsthand.
Representing Fort Freedom and Yonder Behavioral Health
During the weekend, I was also proud to represent two organizations I hold close to my heart: Fort Freedom and Yonder Behavioral Health.
Fort Freedom is dedicated to supporting veterans, particularly those navigating the challenges of PTSD and mental health. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to help veterans rediscover their sense of purpose and freedom. Through programs like trauma therapy, fitness, yoga, and spiritual counseling, Fort Freedom offers a comprehensive approach to healing. We aim to address the whole person—physically, mentally, and spiritually—because we believe that real freedom comes from within. More than a program, we’re building a community of support that empowers veterans to reclaim their lives and purpose. You can learn more about Fort Freedom here.
Yonder Behavioral Health, on the other hand, focuses on providing evidence-based, compassionate care for individuals dealing with addiction and mental health struggles. The work at Yonder is about helping people recover not just from their symptoms but from the underlying causes of their challenges. It’s deeply fulfilling to see individuals come into the program broken and leave with hope, purpose, and a renewed sense of self. If you’d like to know more about Yonder, visit Yonder Behavioral Health.
A Weekend Full of Gratitude
The weekend wasn’t just about work—it was about enjoying life and being grateful for the moment. One of the highlights was attending the Arkansas vs. UAB football game. The energy in that stadium was infectious! The passion for football at the University of Arkansas is something you have to experience to understand. Cheering alongside passionate fans while witnessing the incredible athleticism on the field was something I won’t soon forget.
The people, however, are what truly made the weekend remarkable. I had the chance to reconnect with old friends and make some new ones, and each interaction brought new insights and reflections. The University of Arkansas community is filled with kindness, generosity, and a genuine desire to uplift one another.
Coach Cal was a gracious host, as always, and it was inspiring to see the immediate impact he’s making on his players and the entire Arkansas athletic community. I even got to meet some of the men’s basketball players. These young men were not only talented but also incredibly humble and respectful. I’ll be cheering them on this season for sure!
Living in the Moment
One of the most meaningful takeaways from the weekend was the reminder of how powerful it is to live in the present. By focusing on turning expectations into appreciation, I allowed myself to be fully engaged in every conversation, every event, and every small moment. It’s amazing how much more you can receive from life when you take a step back from what you think should happen and instead just appreciate what is happening.
There were countless moments throughout the weekend that brought me back to this truth—whether it was a simple exchange of ideas or a walk around the beautiful Arkansas campus. By being fully present, I felt more connected to the people around me and to my purpose.
A Divine Moment
One evening, during a rooftop dinner party with a few close friends, something powerful happened. We were deep in conversation when one friend casually mentioned that he was looking for a mental life coach. Without missing a beat, the three other friends immediately pointed to me. It was a beautiful affirmation from God, reminding me that I am on the right path. My work—coaching others to live purpose-driven, fulfilling lives—is what I am meant to do. That moment wasn’t just validation, it was a gift, and it filled me with gratitude for the opportunities I’ve been given to help others.
Moving Forward and Coaching with Purpose
Reflecting on my time in Arkansas, I’m overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude. The weekend wasn’t just about sports or fundraising, it was about deep connections, meaningful conversations, and important reminders of what truly matters. This visit was an affirmation of the power of presence, the importance of gratitude, and the joy that comes from living a purpose-driven life.
I look forward to continuing to support Coach Cal and the Arkansas men’s basketball team this season. Beyond that, I’m excited to keep doing the work I love through Fort Freedom and Yonder Behavioral Health, helping individuals find healing and rediscover their purpose.
As always, I encourage you to take a moment today to shift your focus from expectations to appreciation. It’s a simple shift that can change everything.
Thanks for reading, and I look forward to sharing more soon!
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