From 18-23 years old, I wrestled at Lock Haven University. I was a typical college kid. Initially take aback by the freedom and choices I now had (mostly the fact that I could eat pizza and drink Pepsi all day every day was enough for me), I never strayed far from my core values. I didn’t know it at the time, but I was living a certain code—I did certain things and I didn’t do certain things. I did’t necessarily know why I did or didn’t do those things, I simply made choices and lived my life the best I could.

My wrestling coach at the time, Rocky Bonomo, is as charismatic a person as you could ever imagine. If Youtube and video phones were around back then, Rock and his twin brother, Rick, would be Internet sensations. They are as lively and funny as anyone I’ve ever met. They would host the “Rick and Rock” show at the conclusion of every wrestling camp, with slow-motion moves, “ninja” pushups, and much more. Rock even gave me the nickname “Spaniard.”

me rock carlos

(Rocky Bonomo, pictured far right)

During and after wrestling practice, Rock always used to recite this “thing” that I didn’t really understand. I heard it, but never really “got” it. Now, at 34 years old, with occasional gray hairs and body hair popping up all over, I get what he was saying…

“There are two pains in life, gentleman. The pain of self-discipline and the pain of regret.”

I’ve been very fortunate to be living the pain of self-discipline more than the pain of regret. The choices aren’t always easy, but they are worth it in the long run.

Indulge yourself in a little pain—the good kind. The pain of self-discipline.

What is one choice you could make today that would support living the pain of self-discipline rather than the pain of regret?

-Spaniard