Fat Tuesday. We jump to observe indulgence for indulgence sake. For some, overdoing is where Mardi Gras begins and ends. It may not cross our minds to detox from a decadence for a period of time, afterwards. Or pick up a habit that has the equivalent result. At the very least, we might not ever consider sharing our endeavor to somehow inspire others.
Of course, we don’t need a tradition to begin again. We can start the day over at any time. But it seems easier to commit to re-invention at the advent of concrete dates: our birthday, New Year’s or Lent, especially when other people do the same. Alas, a famous achievement coach says most of us don’t find success in our resolutions because we simply don’t follow through on a daily basis.
In all things, comic Mike Bocchetti seems to be a late, albeit successful, bloomer. Personally, I have used this fact to revitalize my consideration of my own undertakings. I take this to mean it is never too late. Now in his fifties, Bocchetti has a stand-up career that spans slightly over twenty years ago. So when he began, he was of an age when others in his profession often crown in success. With the support of well-wishers and despite a lot nay-sayers, Bocchetti has done well. He makes a living doing what he loves to do in an endeavor on which few can support themselves. He has a solid, loyal following and a repertoire of connections to some of the biggest names in comedy. But his fans adore him for him. He is an accessible down-to-earth guy who serves as an example of tenacity to all, on a daily basis.
At the impetus of yet more resolution, Bocchetti subjected himself to more lifestyle reformation. In addition to giving up alcohol and tobacco over the years, last year he radically changed his diet and picked up daily rigorous exercise. He has been inspiring others by posting his progress through social media. Every day, sometimes multiple times a day, Bocchetti tirelessly reports how he gives his goals his all. His gift to himself in effect is a gift for the taking, to others. A gift he gives but for which he always says thanks.
For me, Mike Bocchetti embodies what the reformation of Lent — or symbolic Spring — is all about. His biography is a series of what I find to be remarkable achievements, none of which has an obvious connection to a special date. All of which would be ridiculously easy to quit. It seems Bocchetti simply makes a decision and follows through. And he does it with a perpetual glad heart.
Of all the things about Bocchetti, his chronic kindness is what I find to be strongest cause for contemplation. Because, without acrimony or blaming, Bocchetti reports having endured brutal bullying growing up — he still gets slammed at times. He lives a successful life with a smile. Every day. And he does a PSA as a superhero who champions others in the face of bullying. He turned a lemon into a peach.
Lent for me is not a fast of suffering or a chance to lose ten pounds, but chance to rejoice in ourselves. To start over at any time. And to bring some friends along. That is the evangelism I garner from the unassuming posts made by Mike Bocchetti. And I share it with you.
