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A Look In The Mirror My 85 Day of Exodus 90: A Journey Toward Freedom and Brotherhood

A Look In The Mirror 

My 85 Day of Exodus 90: A Journey Toward Freedom and Brotherhood


Eighty-five days ago, I stepped into Exodus 90 unsure of what to expect. The idea of committing to intense prayer, asceticism, and fraternity for three months seemed daunting—almost impossible. Now, just five days from the finish line, I see the journey with new eyes. What started as a challenge to remove distractions and embrace self-discipline has become something far greater: a transformation of heart, mind, soul (and body too).

Prayer: From Routine to Relationship

At the start, I rated my prayer life a 6 out of 10. I thought I had a decent foundation, but looking back, my prayers were often rushed, unfocused, and transactional. Now, after 85 days of daily holy hours, scripture meditation, and silent reflection, prayer has become a genuine relationship rather than an obligation. The noise that once filled my mind has quieted, allowing me to hear God’s voice more clearly. My conversations with Him are deeper, more honest, and—perhaps most importantly—less about what I want and more about what He wants for me.

Asceticism: Finding Freedom in Sacrifice

The sacrifices were brutal at first.  I mean we had like a million different restrictions to follow—colder showers, no alcohol, no sweets, no TV, no unnecessary spending. While I definitely broke along the way, in my mind, I quietly counted down the days, longing for that first sip of a delicious IPA or not feeling guilty when I glanced at a football or a baseball game on in the other room. But somewhere along the way, my mindset shifted. The cravings dulled, and the things I once thought I "needed" lost their grip on me. What I once viewed as restrictions, I now see as freedom—freedom from distractions, from unhealthy attachments, from the constant need for entertainment and indulgence. I’ve learned that self-denial isn’t about punishment; it’s about making space for something greater – God, Katie, The Boys.    

Fraternity: Brotherhood Beyond Convenience

Eighty-five days ago, I rated my fraternity a 1 out of 10. Like many men, I had friendships, but they were often surface level, built around work, sports, or casual get-togethers. Exodus 90 changed that. The bond I’ve built with all of you —through accountability, shared struggles, and deep conversations—has reshaped my understanding of what true friendship looks like. We’ve challenged each other, prayed together, and reminded each other of why we started this journey in the first place. This isn’t just a 90-day program; it’s a foundation for a lifetime of authentic brotherhood. I hope we keep the momentum, the check-ins, the silly texts, the coffee talks going.

Mindset Shift: From Enduring to Embracing

As mentioned previously…at the beginning I was counting down the days. Now, I’m wishing I had more time (well kind of). The transformation has been gradual, but undeniable. The disciplines that once felt restrictive have become habits I (and sounds like many of you from our check-in yesterday) don’t want to lose. I’ve learned to find joy in the silence, to appreciate the little moments, to be present with Katie and the boys without the constant pull of a screen or other distraction. 

It's The Final Countdown (it’s ok if you just sing there.  I had this line in Wednesday’s note too)

Five days remain. The finish line is in sight, but the journey isn’t over. Exodus 90 isn’t just about what happens in these 90 days—it’s about what comes next. My prayer now is that the lessons learned, the habits formed, and the relationships strengthened will continue to shape me (all of us) long after Day 90.

Eighty-five days ago, I asked myself, “Can I really do this?”

Today, I ask myself, “How could I ever go back?”

What say you?


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