Last Motivational Monday for 2024: Early Bird Gets the Worm

As I sit here at 4:24 AM on this December 30th, 2024, a sense of purpose fills the air. The final Motivational Monday of the year is upon us. With 2025 just around the corner, time feels more precious than ever. The Islamic calendar marks today as Jumada Al-Thani 28th, 1446 AH, a reminder that while the year and seasons may change, our mantra remains steadfast: Dreams Are Tangible Goals.

To the one reading this, I pray you are intentionally working on your mind, body, and soul. Growth demands a holistic approach, and as we transition into a new year, it’s crucial to reflect on the pillars that hold us up.

I’ll be honest—2024 was a year of hurdles for me. After my injury in February while training for the Boston Marathon, I’ve had to prioritize healing. My left hip flexor has been a constant reminder of the journey back to full strength, and my calves echo the same. This pause in my training taught me the value of patience and resilience in the face of unforeseen challenges.

This morning, I stepped into the 24-hour Planet Fitness location. It felt invigorating to return to a space that has always been sacred for my physical development. I followed this visit with two rakats at MAQ, grounding myself in prayer and starting my day with spiritual alignment. Both spaces—one dedicated to physical rejuvenation and the other to spiritual fortification—are critical to my growth. Being present in both reminded me how interconnected our wellness truly is.

Today was also an opportunity to break in my new ANTA Hela Knit Top track hoodie, paired perfectly with the ANTA Hela style kicks to match. These small details symbolize readiness and gratitude—readiness to tackle what lies ahead and gratitude for the tools and support along the way. Special salute to ANTA and Kyrie for setting trends that inspire both on and off the track.

As we close out the year, remember that restoration comes through action. Whether you’re stepping back into a gym, reconnecting with your faith, or simply realigning your focus, let this be the year you honor every part of your journey. Set goals, stay disciplined, and never stop chasing your dreams.

Here’s to 2025—a year of intentional steps toward the future we envision.

#FitnessGoals #SpiritualAlignment #RestorationThroughAction #DreamsAreTangibleGoals

New renovated stadium fosters community connection ! GAME CHANGER !!

Good morning, and Happy Holidays. My name is Hatim Jean-Louis, also known as Coach H, and I’m here on behalf of Boston Public Schools Cross Country to highlight the transformative impact of investing in modernized track and field facilities.

First and foremost, improving safety and access is at the heart of this initiative. Upgraded facilities are more than just an aesthetic improvement—they directly prevent injuries and allow student-athletes to train and compete at a higher level. These enhancements ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to safely pursue excellence in athletics.

But the impact goes beyond the physical improvements. The renovated stadium fosters community connection, creating a sense of belonging and pride among student-athletes and their families. White Stadium and the Playstead area have become a home for me over the past decade, and I’ve seen firsthand how these spaces bring people together. They’re not just fields or tracks—they’re arenas where dreams are built, resilience is forged, and memories are created.

I want to take a moment to thank Mayor Michelle Wu and her incredible staff for their dedication to making these projects a reality. Their vision and commitment to the youth of Boston are truly inspiring. I also want to express my gratitude to the individuals who will be maintaining this facility and ensuring its daily operations run smoothly. Your hard work behind the scenes is what allows these spaces to thrive, and I look forward to building a positive and collaborative relationship with you. Together, we can ensure that White Stadium remains a vibrant and welcoming hub for generations to come.

This past fall, the BPS Cross Country program—made up of students from Charlestown, Boston Latin Academy, Dearborn, Snowden, John D. O’Bryant, and Boston Arts Academy—made history. Under the leadership of BPS alumni Coach Nasir Rivera and Coach Michael Ward, the team began the season unranked and achieved remarkable success: the girls’ team finished 3rd, and the boys’ team finished 6th at the state meet. These achievements are proof of what’s possible when we invest in our students and their environments.

To the student-athletes and their families, let’s continue building on this momentum. My motto has always been: Dreams Are Tangible Goals. Together, we can ensure that these dreams become a reality. Thank you.

Let me know if you'd like further refinements!