Chop Wood Carry Water: How to Fall In Love With the Process of Becoming Great

John and Akira are fictional characters whose journeys, struggles, lessons, and outcomes are orchestrated by Medcalf. What is gained or lost in knowing that John is not a real person?

If mental toughness and a healthy mindset encourage a lack of competition and comparison, then why do athletes compete?

John makes sacrifices to attain his goal of becoming a samurai archer. Ultimately, he is successful in this goal-oriented desire. What does John sacrifice in order to reach this goal?

Akira sees himself not only as an archery instructor but as a life coach. Why does Akira choose to take on this role with John?

Many Western athletes, CEOs, personalities, and celebrities are featured in Akira’s lessons. Why does Akira choose to incorporate these people when speaking to John?

What makes John a typical American male youth when he arrives in Japan initially, and what has changed in him at the conclusion of the extended parable?

What does it mean to chop wood and carry water?

What Biblical similarities are there in Medcalf’s use of Akira and his students as mechanisms for imparting life advice?