“Let’s go, push harder!” my father motivationally exclaims as I struggle to bench my last repetition of weights. With sweat gradually traveling down my forehead, I stand up and let out a sigh of relief. My strength training for the night is over. Before departing, my father quickly makes a comment, “And that’s how you treat your body like a temple.”

We all cherish the motivational quotes that are relatable, and my father’s statement was one that had me pondering about life for quite a bit of time. “Treat your body like a temple” was repetitively restating itself inside my mind, which eventually led to my overall conclusion and meaning of the phrase.

I’ve never been a person who would wish to get “black out drunk” at parties or in bars. I’m aware of my self-worth and being; meaning I respect my body and will not allow people to take advantage of it. My mind is indestructible. Although I am easygoing to speak with, the persuasion of getting involved in dangerous activity has never interested me. What’s better than having a physically, strong body along with a powerful mind? Nothing can be comparable.

My body will never fail me if I unconditionally love my body internally and externally. What does this actually mean? To know that you are physically treating your body with the utmost respect, do not partake in situations that can put you at risk. Morning and evening walks, a healthy diet, taking supplements, working out, and stretching are just a few activities among the many opportunities that we have to construct a physically, healthier body for ourselves. You may not be a “gym freak” and that’s simply okay. There are other ways to improve your strength and endurance.

As G-Eazy cites in his song, “It’s just me, myself and I. Solo ride until I die. Cause I got me for life.” As you grow within your life, one thing remains constant: the support and love that you provide for YOURSELF. Your body will take care of you if you put in the effort to care for it. So make sure to think twice before your next late night plan and keep your body’s best interest at heart.