When you are struggling… rock bottom and failure can be your biggest lessons. A person who has experienced failure and had the courage to get back up—these lessons are a STRONG foundation on how to grow. I have had 2 utterly heartbreaking seasons where I did not get to do what I love most —and that is competing! That moment is a thrill that I have always lived for. I am often terrible at warm-ups but for some reason when it is time to compete—it is like a switch is flipped and I live for that pressure. Then to have that taken away from me—there are just no words to describe my complete devastation. I honestly thought my world was over. Losing out on 2 seasons of doing what I live for…2 seasons of competitions, a chance to earn a scholarship—ALL GONE. True and utter heartbreak and so many tears! Now, I can look back with a little wisdom, these last 2 years of heartbreak and trials have taught me WAY more than 2 seasons of competing EVER could.
I have learned that I can still be a leader on the sidelines. I can encourage and inspire others without even stepping foot on that competition floor. I have found my true passion is helping others. Volunteering has been incredible, I have seen that a sincere passion for helping others can truly change lives. I have come to understand that I have a real passion for business and age is just a number, I started my own business, SEW Blessed, when I was just 12 years old, when my heart was breaking and I needed to find myself. I have been making heating pads that I sell through several local businesses, on ETSY—shipping them all over the country and at local craft shows. I have learned that I actually have good ideas, I am a big picture thinker and look at things differently than others.. and that is ok.
I can’t change the past, but looking back with a little more clarity now… GOD was telling me—I have so much more in store for you! I truly am thankful for every single day that I get to be in the gym (my happy place) but I have also learned that I can be a gymnast, a leader, a volunteer, a student athlete and an entrepreneur! I can do it all. I have huge plans and this is just the beginning. I am beyond excited for season this year. I have put my heart and soul into this and will give it everything I have!
Thanks for following my journey! Stay tuned—this is just the beginning.
The rest is still unwritten.
Love,
Tenley
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