About 6 months ago my sister Millie and her husband Jacob decided they wanted to run a marathon. They bought a book (and read it), bought shoes, and began a running routine. They invited anyone to join them in their venture. I of course said "yes, i can train for a marathon!" I ran one mile and changed my mind.
The two of them were much more dedicated and after months of training their marathon day arrived. My family and I drove down to the sunny state of Arizona to "support" and maybe get a little sun and try to thaw out from the cold Utah winter.
The morning of the marathon we scarfed our breakfast and raced (in our car) to the 6 mile mark. We yelled, whistled, and cheered encouragement and then raced to the 12 mile mark... repeated and raced to the 17 mile mark.. repeated and raced to the end.
Unfortunately we missed seeing Jacob cross the finish line... speed demon. But we did catch Millie in her final sprint.
I am so proud of them! They both did amazing! Neither of them looked tired and acted like it was a walk in the park. The whole experience was very inspirational. I thought of all these thousands of people (35,000 to be exact) and the goal they had set for themselves. Not only setting a goal but dedicating their time and effort to reach it. And the rewards were so simple, self satisfaction and dignity... with a medal & tee-shirt on the side.
The lesson was one we've all heard but it was a good reminder for me. Life is about willing our natural instincts. How easy it is to do nothing, stop running, or never start but true happiness and self satisfaction comes when we push ourselves beyond comfort. So in the end I not only soaked up the rays but received a little life lesson as well.
perfect shirt to spot in a crowd.
no shoes... for real... it's the new "natural" way
Millie crossing the finish line!!!
