Miguel,
Thanks for your interest. That is a big question with a myriad of debatable answers. Because you took the time to ask, I will try to summarize in two parts without being unnecessarily specific.
First, to be able bodied enough to move freely and be a useful active person. One who can jump into an adhoc physical event competitively, be useful in whatever tasks come about in day to day life, and to at least appear to be the superhero my kids think I am (even if I have to hide the pain and soreness later ).
Second, to fulfill the oath I swore to the community I serve. I wear two hats at my job, and both require different levels of dedication and preparation. When people call, they want "Superman" not "Clark Kent" to show up, and I do all I can, to be that salvation when hope seems lost to those in need. To be fleet of foot, competent physically, and to never give up. To have enough of a "cardio" engine, physical strength, and mental fortitude, to show up everyday and be ready for the unknown. To move effectively and purposely in a constantly evolving environment, wearing up to 50 pounds of gear, and carrying additional loads of varying weight/distribution, sometimes for days straight, sleep deprived, and in less than optimal positions and conditions. To do this leading from the front, never showing fear, weakness, or fatigue to the men I ask to follow and trust me.
Depending on who you are, this explanation either says everything or nothing. I want to clarify that I was not vague in my answer to be insulting or belittling to anyone. I also did not intentionally romanticize my job to make it sound better than what anyone else may do. Far from it. The truth is that I respect those in this community immensely, and wouldn't be here if I didn't. I have never been part of a blog or anything else before, and only committed to this because of my belief in what Strongfirst is doing. I could have tried to sum it up in one line, but it would not have really explained how I interpret my needs, which is important. The cover of a book never fully reveals the content within.
The truth is that I don't know how to explain my needs in any other way. I have to always be ready for what I don't know will be required. I can't let age, injury accumulation, fatigue, soreness, fear, time constraints, or anything else be a limiting factor or excuse. I'm sure there are lots of options to approach this, and I'm not against any of them. I just have found a consistent meeting of my needs using a modified S&S, and have shared that in hopes it might help someone else find what I have found. I am a glass half full, and try to be better every day. If anyone has any input or protocols to recommend/add, I'm always open and appreciative. Thank you.
Strength and Honor to all of you