Roland Lamarine’s life story is a testament to resilience and personal transformation. Born into an impoverished family in New Hampshire, Lamarine faced significant challenges, including bullying and self-doubt. Despite these obstacles, he carved a path of success, driven by a belief in the power of hard work and a bit of luck.
Lamarine grew up with a supportive but economically strained family. His father, a former boxer, worked as a manual laborer, and the family often struggled financially. Still, his childhood was imbued with love from his mother, grandmother, and great-aunt. Reflecting on his upbringing, Lamarine acknowledges the role of luck, echoing the sentiments of his favorite football coach, Bill Belichick, who emphasized the unpredictable nature of fortune in sports and life.
During high school, standing at just 5 feet 10 inches and weighing 118 pounds, Lamarine found himself the target of bullies. Unable to perform a single pull-up, he was often coerced into assisting his classmates with their studies, leading to feelings of humiliation. Determined to change his circumstances, he turned to the local library, where he discovered the inspiring journey of Teddy Roosevelt, who overcame his own physical frailty. This revelation spurred Lamarine to build a makeshift weightlifting set using cement for only $5, marking the beginning of his commitment to fitness.
At the age of 17, Lamarine’s bench press maxed out at just 60 pounds. He struggled with weight gain until he adopted a rigorous regimen that included drinking a gallon of milk a day—despite his aversion to it. After two weeks of no noticeable changes, he began to see results, eventually growing to 165 pounds. His dedication paid off, as he later achieved impressive lifting milestones, including a bench press close to 300 pounds, a squat of nearly 400 pounds, and a deadlift exceeding 500 pounds, all accomplished without the use of anabolic steroids.
As his physical strength grew, so did his confidence. College athletes began seeking his advice, showcasing his transformation from the bullied to a respected figure in the gym. Yet, despite these achievements, Lamarine still grappled with shyness, particularly around women. It was not until his late twenties that he sought help through counseling classes and discovered behavioral techniques that allowed him to navigate social situations better.
After an unsuccessful first marriage, largely due to a mismatch in intellectual compatibility, Lamarine embraced a diverse lifestyle. He explored interests in Zen meditation, hiking, and extensive reading. His life took an unexpected turn when an acquaintance suggested a trip to China to meet his sister-in-law, a potential romantic partner. Initially hesitant, Lamarine, always an intrepid traveler, seized the opportunity.
Arriving in Xian, China, he faced the challenge of navigating a foreign culture and language. Yet, he persevered and ultimately met a kind and intelligent woman whom he married, an experience that profoundly changed his outlook on life. Lamarine attributes much of his happiness to the influence of various figures, including notable personalities such as Eric Burdon, Leonard Cohen, and Robert Frost, who inspired him through their work.
A poignant moment came when a dear friend, a Zen monk, sent him a card inscribed with the words: “Oh, what a lucky man he is!” This sentiment encapsulates Lamarine’s journey—one marked by challenges, growth, and the serendipitous moments that shaped his life.
Reflecting on his experiences, Lamarine encourages others to pursue their dreams, reminding them that luck often favors those who are willing to work hard and embrace life’s opportunities. He remains a resident of Chico, California, and continues to share his story, hoping to inspire others facing similar challenges. Those interested can reach him at [email protected].
