March 7, 2025

Redefining Normal

.:: By John B Grimes

"The past is a chapter; the future is unwritten. Normal isn’t behind you—it’s what you build ahead."

Life after a major change isn’t about going back to the way things were—it’s about redefining what “normal” means. It’s not easy, but it’s where growth begins.

After meningitis turned my world upside down, I realized I couldn’t just go back to who I was before. My body had changed, my abilities had shifted, and my life was no longer the same. For a while, I fought against it, trying to hold onto the past. But then it hit me: moving forward wasn’t about going back. It was about building a new normal that fit my reality. That realization didn’t make things easier, but it gave me a direction—and, eventually, a sense of peace.

Redefining normal isn’t just for those recovering from illness or trauma. It’s something we all face at different points in life: a career change, a loss, or even a new opportunity. It’s not about what you’ve lost—it’s about what you can create moving forward.

John B Grimes

Host

One of the lucky ones, John miraculously survived meningococcal disease (bacterial meningitis) as a sophomore in college. John’s body endured considerable trauma that was mostly healed with physical therapy. But, neurological dysfunction and blindness are permanent reminders of his battle with meningitis.

To spread awareness John is an active advocate with meningitis organizations and shares his unique survival story and journey on his podcast, Destiny Is Debatable with a mission empower people to be successful regardless of their circumstances.

John motivates with a message full of impact that is universally understood. "The filter through which you view your circumstances is most certainly up to you. Whether you wake up in your own bed tomorrow, in a luxury suite at the Ritz-Carlton, or in a hospital, don’t wait to start building your life into the one you want. Waiting is like being at the DMV: your future seems to be in the hands of the apathetic (doctors with poor prognoses, bosses who don’t value you, and your own nagging self-doubt). Don’t wait. Just do the next right thing. Even if you end up taking two steps forward and one step back, that’s still progress. In Texas, we even call it dancing."

The Strength to Ask for Help

.:: By John B Grimes "Strength isn’t about standing alone—it’s about knowing when to reach out." Strength doesn’t always mean doing it alone. Sometimes, the strongest thing you can do is ask for help. It&rsq…

Finding Strength in Frustration

.:: By John B Grimes "Frustration is the weight room for resilience—every struggle makes you stronger." Frustration is part of every journey. It’s uncomfortable, exhausting, and sometimes feels like it will never end. B…