The JNT Definition of Badass.. An Origin Story (not really) ..
Added 2021-03-24 04:28:42 +0000 UTCThe JNT Definition of Badass.. An Origin Story (not really)
“So how’d you get to be known as a badass?” asked the photographer, as we were loading back up in to the ATV to head back to our campsite in the Valley of The Gods.
“Oh.. I dunno...” I said, not really wanting to get in to it. How does one explain an origin story without any precise origin. The sky is blue, the grass is green, and I’m just born to be badass me, ya know?
“Well, I don’t think you’re much of a badass.” was his response.
“Well that’s certainly insulting,” I heard myself immediately reply. Not angrily at all. Not even taking it personally. Just factually. Not an ‘How dare you???’ but a simple ‘You’re opinion is both inaccurate and also of no consequence to me.’
He picked up on my lack of defensiveness and inquired, “How so?”
“I just spent this cold, early morning doing naked yoga on top of these ancient desert rocks on a massive cliffside in The Valley of The Gods,” I reminded him.
“What isn’t badass about that...?”
He thought on this a moment, before revealing his deeper confusion, “... I don’t really think doing naked yoga is BAD.”
“No, no,” I clarified. “Being a badass is a GOOD thing. It’s about living life on your own terms, making your dreams a reality, and not caring what other peole think.”
Clearly this clicked with him, as he started up the ATV, and turned slightly to fist bump me before pulling out on to the red, dirt trail to take us back to his RV and our next adventure. A gesture of mutual understanding between two people living out their own badass dreams.
Ultimately, I don’t give AF about labels, I’m just out here living the life that feels best to me. Now go do the same.
Tip $10 on this post for some truly badass pics from this shoot. Tip $15 and I'll include the full vid.
XoXo
JNT
