For five years, Fit to Serve has recognized, honored and told the stories of some of America’s military members and first responders who they achieved a high level of service and fitness. F2S has been a linear column since the beginning, but has now turned into multimedia with its first episode Green Beret Nick “The Machine” Lavery. Lavery’s full interview can be found on the page M&F YouTube Channelhowever, he offered important insights of wisdom and inspiration that are highlighted below.
THE ROAD TO HIGHNESS IS NOT THE SAME FOR EVERYONE
Lavery didn’t waste his time sharing knowledge about serving in the military, and his first lesson was that no two paths are the same. While some may think that all members of the military come from an elite athletic background or a long line of service, Lavery said no two ways to wear the national uniform are the same. His personal path began in Massachusetts, raised by parents who struggled throughout his childhood. However, this care was a source of inspiration for him and showed him that he can work hard to achieve his goals.
“It just comes from different backgrounds, different experiences, and at some point you get that bug and you want to take a shot at this lifestyle and you do something to make it happen, and you can be an asset regardless.”
STRUGGLES IN CHILDREN BUILD STRENGTH IN ADULTS
Lavery went on to describe his childhood as that of a stereotypical bully. With parents struggling financially and going to different schools, young Nick was not very social, but described himself as scared and insecure. However, he looks back on it fondly and appreciates how hard his parents worked because of the lessons he learned along the way. Instead of focusing on the challenges, he chooses to focus on the gifts that have come as a result.
“I can look back on those moments now with great gratitude, because I’ve had those repetitions in resilience and mental toughness since I was four years old, when I was finally in college and I finally decided that I wanted to join the military. Resistance is built in one way and one way only, and that’s discomfort.”
MENTAL AND PHYSICAL STRENGTH WORK HAND IN HAND
Wilkins asked Lavery if his mental toughness contributes to his physical toughness, or if it’s the other way around. Lavery compared the question to the age-old “chicken or the egg” question, and said he thinks the two can be improved at the same time. He offered a solution for someone who might need to work on both.
“I argue that the truest and most effective way to build mental toughness is through physical training. It’s through physical suffering. Because 100 pounds is 100 pounds. Iron never lies to you. You can either move it or you can’t.”
FAITH AND EDUCATION CAN BE GREAT THINGS TO RELY ON
Lavery credits his time in the military for many things, including his faith in God and his Christian path. He also said that Green Berets are trained to be able to go through unusual situations in unusual ways. They go to the problem, solve it and go home.
Lavery’s injury was caused by a similar situation. An Afghan police officer, who was supposed to be his ally, turned towards them and opened fire while they were surrounded by enemies on all sides. Lavery lost his footing after a few laps. The combination of his faith and his training to overcome adversity was key to his year-long recovery after more than 40 surgeries and his historic return to active duty, becoming the first green knee above-the-knee amputee. For Lavery, returning to the battlefield was not the goal; It was a formality.
“I knew at that point even though I was in the ICU. I knew what I wanted to do. I knew I was going to get back on the teams.”
SURROUND YOURSELF WITH LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE
Whether it’s service, fitness, another career, or something challenging in life, surrounding yourself with positive, like-minded people will give you a greater chance of success and a more accountable path. Lavery had his father with him during most of the recovery. He also didn’t just return to the field and is currently not working on any of his professional endeavors, such as the MCHN brand or his role as Chief Warrant Officer. He advised that surrounding yourself with the right people is not only beneficial but also necessary.
“You will not be relieved of the need to surround yourself with strong and capable people who are better than you, who will hold you accountable, lift you up and push you forward when you fall.”
These are just a few examples of the many insights Lavery offered in his hour-long interview.
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You can also learn more about Lavery and the more than 130 other heroes who have been honored Service eligibility page.
