This is Bernard signing off (VB)

Dearest NPVB,

Hi. My name’s Bernard (Hi Bernard *clap clap*) and I’m glad you’re here.

A lot of memorable events happen in life that really leave a lasting impression on you, like graduating college or buying your first car.  This, however, is in a league of its own.  Not only was I lucky enough to find NP, I had the privilege of co-leading this city.  From my first workout on Pi day to this summer’s Hell Week to my final bounce, to say that these are memorable events is a severe understatement.

There’s really no accurate way to describe it. The whole idea: the movement, the hugs, the high fives. The love. It’s just awesome.  I’ve been preaching for the last few years that the only way people can understand what they’re missing out on, is to #justshowup at 6:15am on top of Mount Trashmore.  So if any of your friends have wondered what the hype is all about, there’s your answer.

I have really had a great time leading.  I’ve made more friendships and memories in a very short amount of time, that it was nothing short of amazing. However, as the saying goes, “all good things must come to an end” and as you can imagine, this is difficult.  Stepping away from something I truly love is hard to do.  To be clear, I’m stepping down more out of necessity than by choice.  I wish I was still able to lead.  I wish I was still able to bounce with you all. My recent career change, however, is preventing me from being as present as I would like.

If I can leave you all with one thing, I leave you all with a challenge: become the best version of yourself.  If there’s anything November Project reinforces, it’s love. Love for others, yes, but more importantly love for yourself, which allows people to share and spread love to others.  While NP creates friendships and bonds, it also generates self-confidence and allows people to realize their self-worth.  I can share story after story of how much NP changes lives for the better.  About how it has had such a positive impact on people.  It all starts with the love in one’s heart. This #grassroots movement, somehow, sparks that fire … and then burpees stoke the flames.      

So go out there and become the best version of yourself. Don’t wait for perfect. Make things happen. If you’ve been wondering if you can run a full marathon, stop wondering and start training. If you’ve been trying to get that PR on PR day, stop trying and do it.  And if you’ve been thinking you’re not in shape enough for November Project, stop thinking and start to JUST SHOW UP. You can do it. You can do whatever you put your mind to. If you need a little nudge, November Project will be there for a boost.

I would be remiss if I didn’t give thanks and shout outs to some special people.  First up is John aka “Red”.  You gave me the opportunity to change lives and I am forever grateful for that.  Thank you for all of the guidance and support you gave me throughout.  I just hope I did half as good a job as you did.

To my co-leaders Jill and Cory – I couldn’t have done it without you. I learned a lot from both of you whether you realize it or not.  I am more than proud of you two strong women and the amazing things you continue to do with our members.  I am honored to have led with you and more honored to call you my friends.  We made too many memories to count and had twice as many laughs and hugs along the way.  I am more than confident that the city will thrive with you two at the helm.  Love you guys.

Finally, to my co-leader in life and future wife Lauren.  No one knows the sacrifices I’ve made and challenges I’ve faced in my life more than you.  NP or non-NP, you are the reason I’m able to become the best version of myself.  I know I push you to reach goals (like running your first half marathon in Vegas!!!), but the truth is, you push me.  You were the reason I was able to get up at 3am to get to a workout after a long day at work the day before.  You were the reason I kept going. And you will continue to be my reason to keep going.  Thanks for being my little nudge whenever I needed it. I love you.

To the rest of NPVB, I truly miss all of you. I will miss the sweaty hugs and high fives and the positive vibes. I will miss the bounces and contagious energy each of you gave me as I led. All I can hope is that I inspired at least one person to become the best version of themselves.

Much love, B

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