Marathon Sunday is rapidly approaching and I have been very reflective lately. Training for the race is in some regards more mental than physical. I've had a rough go of it lately and it's taken a toll on my concentration and confidence-- both of which are essential for running effectively.
I am blessed with countless friends and family members who have given me love and support. But there are five very special fellow runners who, whether they know it or not, have consistently lifted me out of a dark place and who I think of when I need inspiration to run. So I decided to take them with me on the 26.2 mile journey I'll tackle on 10-10-10.
The pictures above show a heart logo that I crafted to wear on my running shirt on race day. On the back of the logo, I've listed these five amazing individuals. Along with their names, I mention the attributes that I think of most often in association with that person. In this small way, I hope to honor them for all that they've given me. In the week before the race, I plan on sending each of them a personal e-mail to better put into words my feelings about what they mean to me and my running.
Thank you, Bonnie, Sara, Sue, Teresa and Vince. I look forward to running with you.
linda, this is awsome.....
ReplyDeletei tried to post the following, but wasn't successful. do i have to have to have your permission to post, a password? it asked me for info i didn't have....not a blogger, you see.
either tell me how to do it, or post the following for me. thanks\b
After I retired, I’m not sure I would have picked up the gantlet of riding, swimming and running again had you not been at the other end of my computer with your faithful encouragement that made me believe I could do it. To be honored among your top supporters who get to travel the route with you on the 10th is among the highest tributes among friendships. To carry our names on your back means we will be behind you all the way, always pushing you forward, taking a few steps for you when your legs get tired, and whispering words of encouragement in moments of doubt and weakness. To share with you the joy of crossing the finish line is spiritual in a way only fellow athletes who have sacrificed pizza with everything on it and trained long hours in the early dawn can understand. While the outcome of the marathon is in God’s hands, the commitment, perseverance and preparation have been in yours, and I am very proud of you! Thanks for the honor and the opportunity to run the marathon with you!
Love and blessings,
Bonnie