This past weekend I participated in the Telos Turkey Tri 5k in Orem. It was my fifth 5K - and I can hardly believe it! My good friend, Clint, did the actual sprint triathlon: run 5K, bike 10 miles and swim 350 meters. I was so proud of him!!! I had toyed with the idea of entering that part but knew I wouldn't be ready - good thing I know my limits (well, at least where chocolate is not involved!). I finished the race and while I don't know my time, it doesn't really matter. I was surrounded by hard-core racers and triathlon athletes. I know that I stick out like a sore thumb - not having the body of a 41-year old who's been running/biking/swimming her whole life. Rather, the body of a 41-year old who's just started running and is grateful just to finish without collapsing.I am extremely grateful for a Heavenly Father who made our bodies so forgiving. Who knew that you could actually change your body shape and make-up this far into life? Every time I run a little further and am less winded than the time before, I give thanks. When I walk/run up the hills I am grateful that I have legs to carry me, lungs that work right and a will that's been strengthened by a powerful belief. I know that my Heavenly Father wants me to be healthy, strong and happy - He's helping me through each race I've entered. It's something I wish that I'd done sooner in life, but it's better now than never!
I have to stop myself from comparing to the wrong crowd - instead I think about all the folks who don't even enter races, whatever the reason. I think about all the times I sat on the sidelines admiring people who could run and yet didn't feel motivated to join them. Wow! I'm one of those people now and despite coming in the end of the 5K, I couldn't be happier. I'm holding out the banner for all you sitting on the sidelines - if I can do it, you can too!
4 comments:
Way to go! I think every part of our life, the good and bad moments alike, are meant for us to learn from. No reason to wish we had done something or known something earlier because everything happens at the right time...we just aren't always aware of the reasons why.
I am soooooooo very impressed with your running. FIVE! 5k races already under your belt. And I am also very grateful to you for continuing to improve yourself. I don't just want you around for a very long time...but NEED you around for a very long time. Yep, a little selfish on my part but anyone who has ever met you, feels the exact same way. Thank you for doing all you can to be healthy and fulfilled...it is the most beautiful gift and the most desired gift I receive from you!
So that last paragraph really got to me. I think that was written with me in mind. Thank you. You really are an inspiration to me and I'll be joining you on those 5Ks, just not right away...I honestly don't think I could make it.
Running with Angels here we come!!
I don't think it'll matter what my weight is, I HATE running. I'll have to be the one to cheer you on. Way to go!!
I am so impressed with you. Congratulations. I've just started running this year, and I can barely slog through 2 miles.
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