#7: Faithful Choices

🦦 Cheers with Chance – Fix the Leak, Fuel the Faith, Pass the Pinot

Hey Friends,

This week wasn’t short on chaos—plumbing problems, appliance mishaps (ever disassemble a dryer?), and a few routine setbacks. But amidst the mess, there was progress & growth. And what stood out wasn’t the chaos—it was the mindset.

When things get tough, I fall back to control the controllables. We can't always control what happens to us. But it's what we do NEXT that defines us. Our reaction is a CHOICE. And that’s powerful.

Every setback gives us a fork in the road: sit in the frustration—or respond with purpose. What we choose to do next, in that moment, is everything. That one step, that one decision, is how we build momentum. It's how we shape character.

Progress doesn’t always look like big wins. Sometimes it looks like fixing a leak, staying calm when things break, or asking for help when you’re in over your head. Choosing your next move—deliberately—is a superpower.

So this week’s theme is: resilience through routine, faith over fear, and the tools (yes, even AI!) that help us along the way.

Let’s dive in...

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1️⃣ [Mindset] – Faith, Fixes & the Power of “Next”

At a couple of points this week, I was deep into repair mode—dryer in pieces, motor removed, heating element replaced, tools scattered across the floor. Between head-scratching and frustration, I leaned on two things: faith (that I could do it) and resourcefulness (that I had the tools).

With some humility (and a phone-a-friend moment + ChatGPT), I managed to pull it off. What took me hours to research, and several YouTube videos, AI diagnosed and solved in minutes. This reminded me, as I've discussed in previous newsletters, that I should be using AI, MUCH more often. Note taken.

Major lesson learned: use your tools. Especially the smart ones.

The experience got me thinking...

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2️⃣ [Reflection] – AI on Faith: A Conversation Worth Having

With this lesson learned, I got curious. What does AI have to say about faith? I asked ChatGPT to break down “What is faith?” and what ensued was a great conversation. To spare you all the details, give it a shot yourself!

Here’s a quote that stuck:

“Faith gives people courage when there’s no clarity, resilience when things fall apart, and direction when life feels chaotic. It can carry people through grief, fuel revolutions, and drive daily choices that shape lives.”

That hit home.

It made me think—maybe faith isn’t about certainty, but about choosing trust anyway.

Faith isn’t just spiritual—it’s tactical. It’s a blend of belief, hope, and trust. Whether you’re fixing a dryer, facing a challenge, or building something new—faith is a force multiplier. It’s the mindset and belief that turns chaos into clarity.

What is faith to you?

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3️⃣ [Inspiration] – Sea Otters and Their Secret Weapon 🦦

Here's something cool: When they’re young, otters pick a special rock—and they carry it for life. They use it to crack open shellfish, survive, and thrive. Some even tuck it in a pouch under their arm. Some even juggle with it. Yep—otters have their own version of EDC (everyday carry).

But it’s more than just practical. Otters are highly intelligent, playful, and social animals. They hold hands while floating to stay connected, use teamwork to care for young, and have a surprisingly high level of emotional intelligence. Their rock isn’t just a survival tool—it’s a symbol of their learned behavior, adaptability, and preparation.

They’re curious, persistent, and resilient—traits worth emulating.

It’s more than quirky—it’s a metaphor: Find your rock. Use it. Keep it close.

Maybe it’s your morning routine. A mantra. A prayer. A notebook. A playlist. A person. A mindset. Or yeah—even a chatbot.

Whatever it is, let it serve you. Let it ground you. Let it remind you of who you are.

What's your rock?

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4️⃣ [Wellness] – Casein Before Bed: Myth or Muscle Hack?

Want to build muscle while you sleep? Here’s a study that caught my eye: consuming 40g of casein protein before bed can increase overnight muscle protein synthesis by 22%. That’s like putting your fitness on autopilot.

Why it works:

• Casein digests slowly—releasing amino acids over 6–8 hours.

• Perfect for overnight recovery and lean muscle retention.

• Great for athletes, lifters, or anyone serious about recovery.

How to do it:

• Mix 40g of micellar casein protein with water, milk, or blend it into a smoothie.

• Take it 30–60 minutes before bedtime.

Heads up:

• Casein may cause bloating if you’re lactose-sensitive.

• Stay hydrated and track your total protein intake to avoid overdoing it.

📚 Source: Journal of Nutrition – Casein & Overnight Synthesis

Recovery while you sleep? Now that’s working smarter.

How are you hitting your protein goals?

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5️⃣ [Beverage & Culture] – Water Into Wine 🍷

This Sunday is Easter—a celebration of resurrection, grace, and renewal. It’s a moment to reflect on second chances and the beauty of transformation.

And fittingly, our beverage of the week is inspired by Jesus’s first miracle: turning water into wine at a wedding in Cana, as recorded in the Gospel of John (John 2:1–11).

Contextually, the miracle was about more than just wine—it symbolized abundance, joy, and the beginning of something new. In a moment of potential embarrassment for the host, Jesus provided not just any wine, but the best wine—quietly, generously, and without fanfare. It marked the launch of his public ministry and served as a sign of divine generosity.

Easter Wine: Pinot Noir

• Light, fruit-forward, and incredibly food-friendly.

• Pairs perfectly with Easter staples like ham, lamb, and roasted vegetables.

• Symbolic of subtle power, gentleness, and balance.

So whether you’re gathered with family, honoring tradition, or simply savoring a peaceful Sunday—raise a glass to grace.

“Wine is constant proof that God loves us and loves to see us happy.” – (Not actually Ben Franklin, but still a vibe.)

Transformation starts with faith—and sometimes, it ends with a good glass of wine.

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🛐 Final Thoughts

Sea otters have rocks. You have routines, tools, faith, and friends.

When life leaks, when things don’t go to plan—go back to your rock. Trust what you’ve built. Lean into faith, and stay resourceful.

And hey, next time your dryer breaks, maybe just start with ChatGPT. 😉

Cheers,
– Chance