Deena Kastor once said, "Sometimes the moments that challenge us the most, define us". I think that in life we are challenged on a daily basis. The outcome of our challenges are determined by how we face them. How prepared we are mentally, physically and spiritually in these situations determines the outcome. Do we take the high road and strive to reach new levels, or do we settle for second best and become a follower instead of a leader? We are the only ones that can look deep inside ourselves and answer that question.
In the sport of running, effort and hard work produce good results. I do not consider myself a fast runner. I am a mid-pack marathoner who happens to have a passion for this sport. After having run Boston last year, I knew how hard I was going to have to work to achieve a better time in this year's race. There were days when I was tired, wanted more sleep, and didn't want to push myself as hard as I knew I had to, but those thoughts were quickly diminished when I would start my workouts. No matter how tough it was at the beginning, I always felt better when my workout was done. Some of the days were more mentally draining than physical. Nonetheless, I kept my focus on the final goal and faced each workout with the thought that by doing this I would only get better.
There are a lot of things that go through my mind when I run. I think a lot about my grandparents that I love and miss every day. They were such a big part of my life growing up. I often wonder what they would think about all this running that I do. I think about my husband John and how blessed I am to have him and our two children. Their endless support and encouragement has been with me every step of the way and for that I am eternally grateful.
The number of people that I have met over the years through the sport of running is astounding. I am inspired by runners that are in the front of the pack and those that carry the back end as well. There is something to be learned from everyone and their experiences. As runners we know the joy and the pain that comes with training and racing. We identify with each other and share stories of well run races, stories where we fell short of our goals and tales about the injuries that humble us. Each day is a new adventure.
I am a extremely thankful to the Lord for all that He has given me. He has watched over me during some difficult times and has always shown me the way. I have often spent 6 mile runs praying the Hail Mary and the Our Father. I know that through Him all things are possible.
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall lack. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me to tranquil streams. He restores my soul.
-Ps 23:1-3
