How did you get started rowing?I started rowing the summer going into high school. My mom had been rowing for a little bit as extra exercise and she introduced it to me.
Rowing has shown me the importance of hard work. I have always been told that hard work is what leads to success and I had experienced it before, to some extent, but now I have really seen it.
I love the sense of family the team builds over the season. I also love being able to prove to myself that I can do what I set my mind to. Sometimes though, I hate some of the sacrifices that I have to make because of rowing.
During the main part of rowing season, I practice on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. But then I cross train on Mondays by running. Right now though, since we are training for Nationals, I train every day, some days twice.
What are some of the greatest challenges for you?Balancing school, rowing, and a social life is the most challenging. I handle the pressure by just trying to take each day and event one by one. I am proud of qualifying for Nationals in a couple weeks. I am also proud of being able to keep up with my school grades.
I enjoy academics, rowing, and photography. I hope that I can continue with these paths in my future.
How did you meet the Liu Masters?My mom had been seeing Master Julie’s father for a couple years before I was introduced to the family. I have been learning how to meditate and chant for the past couple years with Master Julie. She has taught me the importance of putting my heart and mind into everything that I do. The visualizations that I have learned have been applicable to my rowing and schoolwork. I have also learned that stumbling here and there helps me grow in the end. Overcoming difficult experiences has shown me the importance of perseverance. Having a positive attitude and accepting help from outside sources have helped me succeed also.
Please share some of the concepts behind your custom logos and paintings.My logos and paintings were designed with special meanings behind every symbol. They were made to give me the confidence, support and inspiration that I need. When I meditate, I envision that I become one with my Buddha. For me, I like to see myself being filled with light and good energy. I do my meditations every morning before I start my day.
Do you have any special words to our readers?I think it is really important to appreciate the good things in life, but also to learn and develop from negative experiences. Even though it may be hard sometimes, I know I have others that I can always go to for love, guidance, and support. I am very grateful for that.
