Remember Your Beginning…πŸ‘‹πŸ‘§πŸΌ

This title might intimidate you but please don’t let it! I’m not talking about your birth story here but perhaps a little older in life. The beginning I mean is when you became more of YOU. Confused? Well, it’s whenever that little light above your head finally shines so BRIGHT that nobody can dim it. πŸ’‘The part of you that finally accepted yourself despite naysayers. That part of you that finally OWNed being a true warrior. Maybe you are still finding that out.

I’m not being a shrink at all and most have that “inner child.” Mine is more the “inner teen.” She’s mainly my beginning of sorts. I know Warrior’s beginning was discovering that weight room in high school which helped him excel towards his future. My teen years meant hiding that girl I wasn’t allowed to be. Now, she waves at me proudly while standing on the edge of a cliff. Not there drastically but, ya know– playfully and willingly wanting to SPLASH. I actually can see her in my mind sometimes but now I joke when years ago, I pushed her away.

Which beginning means the most to you? We need to remember all of our parts as they make us whole. O.K., so you won’t remember your infancy but somewhat past that. My earliest memories are of being 3. Ah, I digress… That teen girl watched WWF then with so much excitement and joy. This only seemed “allowed” in my family’s house as that part of me was off limits to anyone else really.

We all have parts that are only reserved for some. Even Warrior did. Sure, he had his painted mask but rarely let out his beginning to many. He enjoyed being private later in life. Maybe a younger version of him kept standing on a cliff too– waving? I can only imagine and guess. Without certain beginnings, we wouldn’t be where we are today. Beginnings end but they still remain part of us. Warrior’s earthly beginnings have ended but his spiritual ones will go on forever. The same is true for all of us.

His passing brought endings and beginnings for me as am sure many fans feel the same. Even this blog has gone thru several beginnings which transitioned to endings of some topics. I look at how the WWE has also evolved besides just the name change over twenty+ years ago. Nothing ever happens without those two words of a beginning and an end. We will always remember them all.

Think about your own life. It’s all there for you. Yeah, sometimes we remember truly what we want to. It all leads to new beginnings, adventures, and experiences. Some of it can be pretty ugly but facing it gets us thru it. The great will stand out but then what about the middle? The middle to me are the littles. It’s the little things we need to remember most but sometimes don’t.

For us who followed Warrior’s career, we’ll remember his beginnings of course and then the GREAT but also the UGLY. The middle things need to be acknowledged too. Those propel you forward just like the Ultimate Warrior character needed smaller matches that led to bigger ones. Most might not remember some of those. We will always have the BIG stuff that amounts to beginnings but the middle counts just as much.

Don’t forget all those middles in your life too warriors. From toddlerhood, childhood, teen years, young adult, middle adult, and then older adult. They are all beginnings. These will end but memories will never. Warrior never wants us to forget any of his but his wish is to make your life its OWN. One book may end like Dana’s with Warrior but now she is writing a new one for her life. She will always remember her beginnings too.

Look at your “parts” around you and remember how they all began. They will always be moving you forward to begin again just in a different way.

*** My teen girl is still waving and I honor her now. πŸ˜‰

P.S. “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” ~~~ Closing Time by Semisonic (1998.)

www.spiritandbelief.com

Don’t Make Assumptions

We make assumptions all the time about everyone and everything. I’m gonna use that photo you see of a young Jim Hellwig training as a bodybuilder. Let’s see how a typical GUY conversation would go: (hypothetically)

Guy #1 “Look at him, I could be ripped like that!”

Guy #2 “He’s probably all fake or is all doped up.”

I could list more but won’t. They would either aspire to have that body or be jealous of it. **Let’s see how a typical GIRL conversation would go: (hypothetically again and of course a little different…)

Girl #1 ” OMG, he is so HOT!” ( or insert another word of choice.)

Girl #2 “Are you kidding? He probably thinks he’s all that and has such an ego!”

I could list more again but won’t. They would either think he’s super hot or think he’s an egotist.

What would your assumption be? It might be different if you know or knew of the man in the photo. If you didn’t perhaps you’d think he was indeed training for something like bodybuilding, wrestling, or just loving the gym. Maybe even you’d assume he was a model or male stripper? He so could’ve been! Even though some assumptions might be right, let’s try to not focus on the first three letters of the word ASSumption.

We often times “mislabel” people based on physical attributes. Many women get called “dumb blondes.” If too thin, they have an “eating disorder.” If they are well-endowed, they have had surgery for sure. It works in professions too. Some that are nurses get accused of not “making it as a doctor.” If you’re highly successful or intelligent, you become a “nerd” or “always bragging.” Am sure you could share your own assumptions and all of us are guilty. I’ve often heard how “pretty people have it easy.” Not true at all. They need to prove their worth is more than a face or even a body.

Not all of us base assumptions on outside or external factors. As a writer, it probably is assumed I’m anti-social, who knows?! I’m working on this more and more by really getting to the core or root of a person. Take this blog for example. I have often times pondered how my writings are always evolving. What started as mainly outward comparisons with Warrior has become much more internal and introspective. I obviously don’t mean physical discipline but ya know– that teen girl who means so much to me more now. More on that in a few weeks….😬

We need to find out people’s “stories” like I always say– along with the how and why. It isn’t just about the what. Why do you do the things you do and how do you do them? Are you assuming the worst or negativity in others most of the time? Maybe others are even assuming the worst about you.

My challenge for you is to ease up on those assumptions if you can. Next time you are around a group of people somewhere, try super hard to not assume the worst about them. I’ll do it too. It could be in a restaurant, the airport, a shopping mall, concert, or anywhere really. We don’t know their story and might never fully.

Many assumed the worst about Warrior without ever really knowing him. Sure, we do bring on a little of this ourselves but people are always quick to jump on that negative train. There is a reason why we open up to some and not others. Let’s not assume the worst and be open to giving the benefit of the doubt. We all need this life lesson and not just for famous people. Warrior wasn’t exempt from this either. Let’s respect and not assume…. πŸ‘ŠπŸ»πŸ‘πŸ»

~~~ P.S. We are taking a vacation so this will be it for a bit. Check back in a few weeks or feel free to catch up on previous posts! In the meantime, visit me at: www.spiritandbelief.com for other spiritual posts, book info, and a Work With Me page 😊 You can also find me on Twitter, youtube, and Pinterest.

*** Happy Independence Day tomorrow for all celebrating in the U.S.A.! Remember those true ultimate heroes who fought to make our country FREE! πŸ™πŸ»πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ

What’s Your Plan B?

Several weeks ago I mentioned how “It’s Never One Thing” as to why we like or dislike things. I discussed hobbies or interests and your feelings behind them. This post takes that idea a little further. I made you a YouTube video that I’ll link at the end since we all need a plan B. So many times I’ve said how glad I felt that Warrior always had a plan B. I have several as well. Do you? Once your 9-5 has possibly ended for that time in your life, then what? Warrior had other outlets besides wrestling and I have others besides this blog! If this scares you a little, maybe that’s good.

My advice is to become interested in other activities now before your actual “career” comes to an end. Nobody wants panic to set in without going to that job everyday. That brings us to the word of retirement. Some love that word, others dread it. Most that dread it don’t have a plan B.

Sure, the Ultimate Warrior had that “retirement” match with “Macho King” Randy Savage in Wrestlemania VII. Well, that was on T.V. although unprecedented for the WWE then. Retirement isn’t what it used to be. Not many begin that chapter at age 65 anymore, move to Florida, or travel in a Winnebago. Where did all that come from anyway? Some may never fully retire as is the case concerning a few people connected with WWE.

Many have children now as Superstars or are involved in the business with other aspects. I have always agreed with Warrior about moving on but he does state on the Ultimate Collection DVD how respect is given to those “who live and breathe the business.” Being a pro athlete takes its toll physically, mentally, and psychologically. Some may never fully leave the company but there are so many other opportunities now. There are lots of athletes that start their own business after retiring and some disconnect from their sport entirely.

There are even those who “semi-retire” but miss it so much, they return a year or so later. For us who aren’t athletes, we need to consider many things. Finances, travel, family, hobbies, or anything suitable to your life. I for one still hope to be able to do my activities that fill me with such joy. I love them now so when I’m older, they’ll still be there for me (hopefully!) Start brainstorming if you don’t have some sort of plan B in place for yourself.

I’m not suggesting anything too dangerous or unsafe here! Just maybe try something new and different but start small. Do those things that you never had time for in your life prior to retirement. Like Warrior said:“Learn everything.” You might just surprise yourself with what you can do and learn. Don’t become too advanced in years that you are unable to enjoy your Plan B.

No need to dwell too much but make it a little thought in your mind once in a while. I personally will never be that couch potato who watches the News and Weather Channel! If that’s you, no offense but it’ll never be me. Retirement shouldn’t be too sedentary. Sure, we deserve it after years and years at the job but the body and mind still need activity. You are the one who can use both but only if you want.

Write down some plan B ideas but truly make them matter. After all, they are yours to fulfill. Retirement does indeed look different for each of us but always believe in the Plan B of your life. It will make a difference in a uniquely ultimate way!

P.S. I recently found out the animated Disney movie “Sleeping Beauty” is also turning 60 this year just like Warrior would’ve been. I had a music box in a photo with the post “Creative Collections.” It’s my favorite Princess movie. Warrior actually said at the beginning of a video: “Wake up Sleeping Beauty!” ~~ Wake up to the Plan B of your life!! πŸ˜΄πŸ‘‘πŸŒ™

P.P.S. Here is my YouTube video titled: “Always Be Multi-Passionate.”

https://youtu.be/isSS4tEdVrw

www.spiritandbelief.com

The Journey of Steve

I know The James Boys was blogged already but how about Steve? There was that movie in 2009 called All About Steve but this isn’t Sandra Bullock and Bradley Cooper! I’ll only share stories that connect many things with me and Warrior so we have Steves in common. This really is quite the journey like my sign says . That story is in a little bit…

Most Ultimate Warrior fans know his connection with many Steves. First, his tag team partner was Steve Borden, (Sting) then he wrestled Steve Lombardi many times,( he was the Brooklyn Brawler.) Warrior acknowledged him in his HOF speech. Last was Steve Wilton who was Warrior’s manager.

Here are my Steves. Well, in my OWN way. I regularly get Stevie’s comments on my YouTube videos and he has read my other blog at www.spiritandbelief.com That is also the title of my book! Another Steve hopefully many of you know is Steve Perry of the band Journey. “Don’t Stop Believin!” has been a constant song of theirs in my life for years and now even more after Warrior’s passing. A few years ago in Art my son even used some of those song lyrics on a fun project. I couldn’t help but have a WOW moment. He told me that song just came to him. It still hangs up in his room.

Back in the fall last year, I met this woman at an Author’s Conference and she and I instantly bonded. Her name was Molly Perry and her husband was Steve. Another WOW moment. He had passed a few years ago so she totally connected with my spirit vibe. GET THIS! She shared a funny story of how they were youth counselors and had jackets made for the kids. On the side of the sleeves were the words: “Don’t Stop Believin’!” He told people he was THE Steve Perry of Journey and they’d believe him!! She had me laughing and even bought my book.

That just leaves my sign you see with the beautiful lotus flower. I took this painting class at a local place that is a wine bar, craft corner, and yoga studio! What a great combo. Well, I was intrigued with this wooden oval you’d paint and then use a stencil ( yes, please) to create your lotus flower. I chose purple out of 3 choices since that represents a lotus to me. The last addition was a meaningful word. So many choices yet where to begin?

My mind wandered into using many. I didn’t want Spirit or even Believe since that’s my book and Journey is on another sign I have. Remember “The Falling Signs?” Some other possible words were: inspire, endure, and a few more. Many seemed too common for me like Faith, Hope, or Love. Too overused. I was still deciding on the way there! My decision was made while listening to the radio. That’s right. Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’!” played when I was almost to the parking lot.

Another woman also chose that word and yet another picked believe. I was with the right group that day. All of ours came out great but mine seemed to get the best compliments. I was very methodical in lining up each letter with a lotus petal. Good thing we had that stencil but truly, I could’ve done it anyway. So, now I have 2 Journey signs but it really is the right one since I never stop believin’! I look at them both everyday.

This is another story that kinda seemed silly sharing and yet it’s entirely me with how my Journey is. I might not know a Steve personally like Warrior did but they still pop up in my life in other ways. Warrior always talked more about the journey instead of the destination anyhow. We are all on our OWN journey whether or not you know any Steves, listen to the band, paint, or anything else. As long as you “Don’t Stop Believin’!”

P.S. CONGRATS to the Toronto Raptors on winning their FIRST NBA Championship in 2019! I have to mention this since am very biased. You can archive my basketball story but that’s also in the book. Anyhow, they won in game 6 which connects to WMVI held in Toronto! πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦ πŸ€The only time I am for a Warrior!!! ( My Ohio CAVS won 3 years ago today!) Gotta love winning something the first time!!

~~ Follow me on fb, Twitter, youtube, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

Happy 60th Warrior…πŸ’™

I believe Warrior’s birthday fell on Father’s Day a few years ago so here we are yet again. Am sure his girls will be honoring their Dad in their OWN special way. My thoughts go out to them as always. Perhaps he can celebrate what would’ve been such a great milestone up in parts unknown with those fortunate to know the real him. That Fatherly love will be felt by his daughters guaranteed.❀️❀️

This post brought a similar idea I had back in Jan. of ” Q and A Warrior Time.” I answered some questions about my journey that had been asked of me but decided to reverse that somewhat. What type of role would Warrior have had as a WWE Ambassador? Would he have agreed to some similar jobs Dana has taken on? I know she advocates for women and now is even part of the creative writing team, you GO girl! There are many opportunities but I always did wonder what he’d take on.

Well, that got my creative juices flowing as I conjured up my OWN set of Q and A’s to ask HIM. Yep, you read that right! What if I could’ve interviewed him? Some things I always wondered about but some are newer. I have watched many videos and listened to interviewers ask the SAME questions over and over. It’s no wonder he got so annoyed… πŸ™„ Sure, it’s a different audience and ratings matter but what about the good stuff? Where is that? Let’s take out the negative stories and ask better ones! At least that’s my opinion.

So, having said that– here’s MY interview. ~~ I would just have to BREATHE and meditate first… πŸ˜¬πŸ€—πŸ’ͺ🏻

1. Did you have an artistic ability as a child that resulted in creating such colorful artwork? ( face included!)

2. Would you ever have considered finishing your chiropractic degree after retiring from wrestling? Or, even pursuing other movie opportunities?

3. How long did it take to paint your face with extra details?

4. Did you ever feel like you’d trip when running to the ring?

5. Was there ever anyone in the crowd who was so distracting when you’d perform in the ring? ( cotton candy man and fans comes to my mind)

6. What did you write in your journal the day of April 1, 1990? ( So ironic this is #6, not on purpose!)

7. The ONLY Hogan question I have from a fan standpoint is please tell me the emotion was real with the hug at the end of WMVI?!

8. This is a BIGGIE since it’s in my book “Spirit and Belief” but whose idea was it to slam “Queen Sherri” at the end of The Steel Cage match against “Macho King”? Both of Yours? Vince?

9. Can you give us the secret to the Casket? Was there a breakaway floor or something so you could breathe? What were you thinking in there with them drilling and all? SO many bad memories for me!!!

10. The last one connects you and me. Spiritually speaking, how did you come to know terms such as intuition, third eye, evolution, past lives, and others? I blogged about this with ” The Spiritual Warrior” in regards to the comic book. Also, this relates to your final speech on RAW? It sounded eerie…, (This would take a while am sure for him)

Well, fans there’s my list. I do know possibly how he’d answer some ( most with his big hearty laugh!) He probably wouldn’t give the casket secret away! Here’s what I WOULDN’T discuss:

1. Steroids/Trial

2. Lawsuits

3. Money

4. Destruction DVD

5. Disgust of the betrayal in WCW

6. Contracts

7. Vince McMahon ( negative aspects)

8. Hulk Hogan ( not really anyway)

9. Not being a “technical” wrestler

10. His disciplined intense workout

~~ Been there, DONE that!

I could easily ask a TON more but will keep it at a 10 count. Personally, I’d ask some questions about his family life but nothing too intimate. Maybe this interview wouldn’t become “newsworthy” but I KNOW Warrior would love it. Maybe I’m a little biased but honestly, these questions would resonate so much better than the millionth time being asked the 10 DON’TS I listed. I think much has been said also about his early years in the business with Sting.

What would your questions be Warrior fans? Watching some of the matches or promos always brings up funny stuff and that’s what I’m about. This blog really started with Dana doing a Q and A a few summers ago where she answered my question– best for last LOL!

~~ Here’s to Warrior remembering his 60th and being that Dad his girls knew so well. My wish is that he is happy spiritually but he gives me signs all the time! πŸ™πŸ» Perhaps he’ll answer some of my questions in other ways, who knows? Take that clothesline other “interviewers!”

P. S. Here is the YouTube video link of the photo above titled: “Put Your Mind Into Your Workout.”

I know this video is about working out but it’s so much more. There are so many good ones out there but this is great wisdom to listen and learn from.

https://youtu.be/qOXdEUEeUIY

~~~ One LAST thing, this is always an emotional time of year for me as shortly before Warrior’s birthday 3 years ago, I began writing. That’s also when I found my 1st feather~~ a beautiful white one! πŸ˜‡

Always Give 110%

I’m not a person to do anything halfway. Most of the time this is great but sometimes it can become exhausting. When I am doing an activity, my mind and heart are IN ALL THE WAY. O.K., there are moments where I slip into thinking of my next thing but overall the person or situation receives my full attention. Are you this same way?

I give what I’m doing all that I have whether it’s an event, my fitness routine, WRITING, friendships, and those preschool jobs of the past. Being a mom also involves so much giving even now with my teens attitudes!! πŸ™„πŸ˜¬ If you knew of Warrior at all, giving 110% was always at the center of who he was and STILL is as a spirit (; I know this to be true. πŸ’™

A recent memory of mine was after I had done the Radio Interview with Kate Delaney of America Tonight back in October 2018. All I was told was that it was part of the Oct. 10th edition but the program is 3 hours! I was only given that info but wanted a direct link for others to listen. I found the episode and just had to keep listening while fast forwarding to my part. This took quite a while. I did imagine how Warrior would respond!! My interview is 27:11 into hour 2 so I was determined. That’s giving 110%.

This isn’t always the case of a good ending though. For me, I think in some situations perhaps my giving is too much. The outcome doesn’t always work out successfully and then our emotions respond. We all might give a lot when others give very little. I still am me but every circumstance brings it’s own challenges. Being determined is one thing but always wearing yourself too thin is another.

I look at how Warrior approached his career and I did mine the same. Obviously, I was NOT a pro-wrestler (lol!) but the passion was equal with his work ethics. I too would write ideas down and be so prepared, this resulted in some teasing… The job was my life since I had no family of my own yet. The pressure he faced wasn’t mine but giving that 110% of ourselves is us both.

When I’d hear stories of him going in early, staying later, or working on promos, it sounded a lot like me. Just sub lesson plans for promos. This spilled into other areas of my life too but now much more has been learned. I have enjoyed many activities by slowing down some, we have to breathe! Maybe Warrior couldn’t slow down much but his family kept him grounded. He needed that grounding to keep giving 110% so his legacy would continue.

We can all work at our own pace but still remember to enjoy life along the way. Warrior mentioned this in many videos since he knew how precious the gift of life was… Give that 110% but then sit back and watch what happens. We actually shouldn’t be going and going all the time anyway. I am still on that journey often as it can be a struggle. Get that downtime to relax and then recharge when you’re ready. We will never be able to do everything but give your time to those ideas that truly ignite your 110%.

When I am starting a new project and it’s early enough, I work on it until it’s done. My husband is the same. Some things can wait another day but we get that anxious mindset and just have to finish. Even writing this right now has brought me many distractions but my 110% is to get it done. If I set my mind into accomplishing something, I do it. I have overdone things and might pay the price but never any regrets. Life lessons make us true warriors who fight “’til the end.”

You may disagree some but all of our minds work so differently. I admire those who never panic and just somehow manage to fit in so much everyday. I do know that getting overworked though doesn’t serve me well. I prioritize much better and can still give my 110% in an easier way.

However your life is, give yours but also know it is enough. Maybe it isn’t 110% and that’s o.k. This is your life to live so be that Warrior you need to be. 110%= Your TRUE SELF!

P. S. Photo courtesy of Warrior #1 Comic and artists:

Jim Callahan

J. D. Smith

Comicraft

P.P.S. Here is the radio link for anyone interested:

http://rss.gcnlive.com/americaTonight/?p=archive&cat=all&pgn=4

~~~ I discuss intuition, my book Spirit and Belief, Warrior, and my spiritual experiences. It is 12 min., Oct. 10th, hour 2, 27:11 mark.

www.spiritandbelief.com

β€œIt’s Never One Thing!”

Before I begin today, there’s a few things needing to be acknowledged. First, it’s my daughter’s 13th birthday and also the 5th anniversary of my Warrior logo tattoo. You can find that story blogged or in my book Spirit and Belief. Another memory of five years ago, what an adventure! Now, I have two teenagers– oh my… 😬

O.K., now with the present topic written above. That also seems to be a newer catchphrase of mine and I really think it belongs on a t-shirt (: Think about all those things in your life whether good or bad. It can be people, places, objects, or anything. I will bet the reasons you like or dislike them are many. That’s certainly true for me. Even hobbies or interests give many feelings that are never one thing- like with Warrior.

I often times reference that statement when really discussing him with like-minded folks. You gotta get that celebrity thing out of the way first and learn more. For me years ago, um… that wasn’t an issue. Why would it be? Us fans only saw and knew what was on our T.V’s. What a different world today with all the social media out there. There were always other shows I watched with it being more than one reason why. I know you can think of yours and make a list that fits.

How about a job you have? Whatever it is, I know there are many reasons you have for liking/disliking/having/aspiring etc. that involves something other than one concept. It is anything and everything! Sometimes it really can be one reason but that probably is a rarity. Are you a parent? Why do you live where you are? What foods do you love? How about animals? Just some questions to ask yourself with regards to this huge topic. We all can relate in our lives.

It has been and continues to be quite the evolution with me and Warrior. So many connectors and reasons why he has remained with my own longevity. Just like with any start, we all have a drawing point. That point then expands like it typically does. This is especially true with people. Any relationship begins small with little similarities but then grows into more bigger ones. Of course this can be friendship, romance, physical, or even ya know– spiritual! πŸ™πŸ»πŸ’ͺπŸ»πŸ’™

I have listed so many attributes of mine and Warrior and even made a YouTube video about a pros/cons list. We all need to get to those many reasons that bring us towards something. Maybe there is one thing that beats them all but they are still roped together. It’s like building a house. It needs that foundation to support the rest.

Always have I tried to share my many things with all of you but with Warrior— there isn’t just one! If I had to pick some qualities they would have to be loyalty, honesty, and trust. I know how he felt about those words based on his experiences and yet they parallel mine. I also show the humor since that is so important and maybe one not too many associated with him often. Always find something good, even in naysayers.

The truth is that none of us are one thing at all. If you ask others what they like or admire about you, it’s more than likely one thing. Disliking is different but respect should be many attributes. At least I hope that’s how it is for any of you. Sometimes relationships end over one element and that’s unfortunate. My wish is that they get stronger over time based on how we grow and evolve. Everyone is different though.

I love how honest kids are with stuff. They might like or dislike something for just one reason. How many times have I heard similar answers from my own!? “It’s just funny!” “I just like it.” (Or don’t) “It’s mine!” It just might be that simple for us adults too. For most though, we have more reasons and want more.

My whole life has never been just one thing with most of the passions I pursue. Can you answer the same? If not, no big deal but just always remember to start small and keep that foundation from crumbling…….

www.spiritandbelief.com

~~ Here is my video from a few years back as to reasons why Warrior is working with me in spirit!

https://youtu.be/Zt0AKfand9Q

Creative Collections

I wouldn’t be where I am today with these warriorwritings without YOU collectors. So many things have I experienced but without Ultimate Warrior fans sharing, my work wouldn’t be out there fully. This post is a THANK YOU to those willing to give their collections a voice for all fans, big or small. You KNOW who you are! I thank you for sharing your stories, photos, collections, videos, and for recognizing me as one of your OWN. Obviously, I am not that avid collector and have shared my small treasures but all of us keep Warrior’s legacy alive in many ways.

Boy, have times changed! Years ago people collected stamps, baseball cards, comic books, bottle caps, and many other things. I even had a sticker book around age 8 and us girls brought them to school and exchanged. I kept that too… My son collects magnets from our family vacations. Nowadays, some little girls collect beanie babies or kids are even competing with APPS on their phones! A different time indeed…

Do you collect anything that means something to you? For all you warriors— I mean other stuff besides your U.W. items. Is there something you had as a kid that you still like today? I used to love rocks and seashells so perhaps now my spiritual self was drawn to crystals (and feathers– hehe!)

Don’t be afraid to share it with someone. It just might connect to your life in ways you could never have imagined. Why are you drawn to certain types of collections? Sometimes we just like something but there can be a more meaningful reason. Am sure you Ultimate Warrior fans know what I mean.

I respect all of you for whatever type of collection you have. We are all different and if it means something to you, great! Pay no attention to those who “don’t get it.” Even though it may not be quite in line with yours, it’s theirs and that’s all that matters. I see so much online with U.W. memorabilia and also believe Warrior appreciates it all. He knows his true fans. There is that extreme mindset as a collector I don’t have but still marvel at what you do. It is part of your life just like everything else. We need like-minded fans who connect and relate.

Back then, the merchandise wasn’t remotely what it is today and the options now are huge. Like I’ve said before, it all counts and little things make a difference. Someone might not be the kind of fan you are but does it really matter? Nope, not at all. Being exactly the same gets boring.

I believe it’s wonderful to have something outside your 9-5 job or any of those roles that define us. It’s sad when you don’t. Get a hobby, interest, activity, or anything that makes you feel good. Your collecting can also give you income but it gives you so much more. We’re all still kids even as adults with our stuff and “quirks.” They make us who we are. Most of you guy collectors are not afraid to share— good for you! I say guys since I have yet to find many women U.W. collectors or even wrestling in general. If you’re out there– find me! I would love to hear your stories!!!

Don’t feel like you need a collection in order to have a connection with something other than a job. I just feel like other aspects of ourselves need to be recognized too so we can have fun.

Often times, I’d feel differently having a few Warrior collectibles– kinda like I didn’t belong. I now know all that isn’t my style and I am a warrior girl in the way that works for me. My book Spirit and Belief is testament to that. So, don’t compare your collections to anyone else’s either. Be proud of what you own since it is an extension of you.

Sometimes we can get caught up in wanting more all the time. Guess that depends on how much time you invest but you’ll know what’s right for yourself. Maybe you will never find that elusive item but be grateful for the ones in your possession. I know I am. I think I’m a person that if more items were presented to me, additional storage would be needed! Seriously though, personally seeing hundreds of action figures in my care would overwhelm me too much. That’s just me. That doesn’t mean it has to be you.

I give you Ultimate Warrior collectors a title or belt of your choosing for all that you collect. It is amazing to me and truly I remain awed every time. If you don’t have a belt, am sure you’ll get one soon! Thank you for always sharing your memories with me as it makes it easier sharing mine with you. For any of you creatives– post more videos of your expansive merch! I love seeing it all. We are all ultimate collectors that remain passionate and loyal. Like Warrior himself has said: “unique and different all to its own!”

~~P.S. The black crystal in the photo is bloodstone. Didn’t know at first how it is also called the “Warrior stone.” #signseveryday πŸ’™πŸ˜‰πŸ™πŸ»

www.spiritandbelief.com

The History Term Paper

Did you fans actually think I wrote a Term Paper on the Ultimate Warrior? LOL! Can you just imagine? 😳😬 Maybe if it was a biography or something but um… no. This story arose from another “flashback” of mine more suited for next year. It concerns Wrestlemania VI so 2020 will mark its 30th anniversary. That’s also when I graduated high school. I probably wouldn’t let it out of my memory bank but needed some funny back after these last few weeks. Not gonna wait ’til next year after all!

For my U.S. History class, our term paper near the end of senior year was on the Great Depression. We had weeks of course to stay on track with prep work. The whole nine yards really. Finding sources, having a Table of Contents, notecards, bibliographies, and all that for a timeline. The teacher gave us more specific topics to help as a guide. Do you think I picked from that list? Nope, not at all.

I wanted to be even more specific with how the Great Depression affected family life. The economy or government stuff didn’t interest me like the personal connections did. Makes sense to me now. I asked the teacher about this and she agreed to my idea but advised on lack of references. This didn’t stop me! Remember– no true internet then so you had to rely on books, magazines, (or “periodicals,”) and the good old fashioned Microfiche machine. Remember that? You could access newspapers so YES even in 1990 that still existed for research.

How is this connected to Warrior? Well, here comes his part in all this. One night I ventured out to the library. Warrior would love that. It was time for some serious work without the distractions of home. This was just around the time after WMVI so distractions in yet another ultimate way! Despite that, the library was upon me. I remember vividly going downstairs to the basement where all the reference areas were.

After a bit of time, I needed to find some “periodicals” and that back space was huge! I actually can’t remember the details (I know, right?) but for some reason ended up in the “W” section. I really was back there for my story– no joke! Guess what I saw? You’re looking at it up above. That was not the latest issue of the WWF magazine but the Ultimate Warrior just happened to be in the front. He did appear on two covers in 1990, June and Nov. but I was there in April. My report got side-tracked as I picked up the magazine and sat on the floor reading it! Why didn’t I just check it out with all my other materials? Couldn’t do that…

I did finally find what was needed for my report but ended up arriving home a little later than expected. Guess that “research” took longer– HA-HA! This goes along with my newer catchphrase of “I Can’t Go Anywhere.” Even back then. Do any of you remember my post on “Stand Up, Stand Out, Deliver?” The teacher who gave me a bad grade on a report was this experience.

I worked my A_ _ off on that report and got too many corrections from her without merit. She did raise my grade and gave me 3 out of 5 points proved. I stood up and THAT’S being a warrior. The history part he would also love. I always did the work and continue doing the work everyday. I hope you do too. That report was kept for a bit but then I grew tired of knowing her red marked corrections didn’t define it. It was tossed but my library adventure in the “periodical” section never would be.

This was a few years before I really did buy my first wrestling magazine. It has been blogged and also mentioned in my book Spirit and Belief. I will always have my Great Depression term paper story which connects Warrior and me. Five years ago was another time of depression but we are past those posts….. History, a library, and a magazine all involved the Ultimate Warrior then which gave me a great April memory. Not to mention WMVI of course!

I guess thanks need to be given to that teacher who brought out more of my warrior self. She still battles on today as a warrior woman to the core.πŸ’ͺπŸ»πŸ’–πŸ‘πŸ»πŸ‘

www.spiritandbelief.com

Moments and Memories

This post will conclude my experiences and emotions regarding five years ago with Warrior’s passing. I’m not sharing my whole day of shock upon hearing the news on April 9, but wanted to relate my grief and the tribute on RAW April 14.

When my brother informed me of the tribute, I had no idea of what to expect. I just knew for those brief minutes that WWE would be on my T.V. that night. The whole day my stomach was in knots as time passed way too fast. I became more immersed in my activities while trying to avoid distractions. So many scenarios played out in my head as I anticipated that volcano inside my throat. πŸŒ‹

I had to tell my husband why I wanted to watch RAW which we don’t. So needed to form my words correctly without tears. Prior to this, it was our family game night that the kids initiated a few weeks before. They picked Clue Jr. and Mama calmed her heart to play. Sometimes these games take too long and had to mention possibly cutting it short. There was something on T.V. their Mama needed to watch. Luckily, it ended with about 20 minutes before 8:00–RAW time.

I explained to my husband how my favorite wrestler passed away recently and they were giving him a tribute on RAW. No big deal to him really. Why did I care so much? After all, it wasn’t just his T.V., right? The eerie part for me was where I sat to watch. Really wasn’t even thinking but ended up in the exact same spot I sat a week ago. A week ago when Warrior was still alive making his last television appearance on RAW. That didn’t faze me until later. Very different feelings just 7 days ago.

While watching after several minutes, my husband saw part of the Ultimate Warrior‘s IC title win over Honky Tonk Man. He looked at the T.V. pointed to HTM, and asked:“Is that him?” He meant Warrior. Since I never liked the bad guys as previously blogged, my face grimaced some while slowly saying:“Noo, he’s the other guy…” Not wanting to cry, a little smile formed on my face. Let’s just say emotion-wise that his comment about HTM was better than if we’d seen Undertaker!!! So very glad to see the Honky Tonk Man get inducted this year.

Guess the humor was needed for just a moment. My husband was completely clueless about all this and I wasn’t ready to share. I was actually better than I thought during the tribute but music gets me every time. Every single time. The song “One More Time” by

7 Lions was perfect with the part played. It seemed so wrong to hear the Ultimate Warrior’s theme music without seeing him running or just physically there. I applaud Triple H for getting the crowd going as hearing that music, well, you just can’t sit still. I do have a post about “Unstable” coming soon so stay tuned… Of course the next day, I watched it all again by myself tissues in hand. πŸ’”πŸ˜’

After the memorial tribute was over, I knew that volcano needed to erupt. I tapped my foot constantly while digging my nails into the side of the couch. I told my husband he could change the channel as I left the room.

Going upstairs to be alone seemed too obvious so I made my way into our half bathroom off the kitchen. After a few moments of silenced sobs, I turned on the faucet full blast to mask my tears. My ugly cries came yet again. That early April made me lose my voice from grief but I blamed it on the exceptionally warm spring which brought about my “cold.”

I’m sharing my story not out of extreme sad memories or my horrible emotional state back then at all. It is being written to show how grief knows no barriers whatsoever. We all grieve, even over losing things. It isn’t just people. I’ve even grieved over getting our new van a few years ago after having our first one 11 years. This year, it’s a new pool that’s replacing our old one and yes, I’ll grieve again. Am sure Dana grieved when selling Casa de Warrior a few years back.

Your grief is yours alone and it knows no time. You will know what journey is truly yours and there is no comparison. Some can say I was crazy to grieve so long and hard for a celebrity. Believe me, I questioned it also. Grief never fully goes away but just changes over time. I debunk many myths we buy into in my book Spirit and Belief.

I kept so much hidden for various reasons and very glad not to hide anymore. Slay those naysayers warriors! Don’t ever feel like your grief doesn’t matter because it does!! Perhaps Dana seemed so strong to all of us but she has such a huge support system which I never had.

Remember that we all need to be validated and go thru a process to get where we are today. We all go in different directions but need support along the way. I validate your grief for whatever reasons and truly understand. We need to let it out and not push it down. Without my process, I wouldn’t be doing all I am now in memory of Warrior. He gave me that validation and supported me from the start.

So, I am moving on from these moments and memories as I continue making new ones. Please do that too. My humor will be back very soon as it is the backbone of many posts! I realize sharing your grief or stories can be so challenging but know you are not alone. Grief makes us stronger.

Just don’t wallow too much as the spirit needs to laugh as well. Make that grief your OWN and let it pass as it needs to. A Warrior is strong but also tender. Celebrate how your sadness makes you real because it matters. A relative, celebrity, an object or memory, we have them all. Some we lose but some we keep. Make sure you keep what’s important as it reflects your life. The ones you keep are imprinted in your soul. Never let anyone deny that of you.

I will never forget April 14 as another moment and memory for me but know it let to a higher purpose. My story makes a difference just like yours does for you. Never by defined by myths, they are meant to be debunked. Grief will lead to joy. Go with it and your strong warrior self will make it truly ultimate. Being “sensitive,” “emotional,” or “too dramatic” isn’t a curse. It’s a blessing and what a life lesson it has been for me. πŸ’™πŸ’ͺπŸ»πŸ™πŸ»~~~ Kathy

www.spiritandbelief.com