Today was meant to be the day of my goal marathon, the race where I aimed to qualify for Boston. It was supposed to be a day filled with anticipation, excitement, a culmination of months of hard work and dedication. But God had other plans for my life. A femoral stress fracture sidelined me for the past 8 weeks, putting a halt to my plans of running the course. Today, I find myself on the sidelines, not as a runner, but as a cheerleader for my people. I've come to realize that sometimes, life throws unexpected challenges our way to teach us valuable lessons.
Facing Reality
I could choose to ignore today, to pretend like it isn’t happening, but that wouldn’t change the truth. Instead, I’ve decided to face it head-on. Acknowledging the disappointments and setbacks is my first step in navigating my new route. Today, my running shoes might not touch the course, but my prayers will still go on. I decided to write my marathon prayer list on my arms because this is More Than a Race.
Life's Surprising Lessons
These past 8 weeks have taught me some unexpected lessons:
Priorities Shift: I’ve learned that I don’t need to obsessively clean my house every week. Life continues, even without spotless floors or organized countertops.
Simpler Wardrobe: Without sweaty running clothes piling up, my laundry load has lightened. It's a small reward in the midst of disappointment.
Mom Taxi Chronicles: Navigating life with a seventh-grader is a task in itself. The title of 'mom taxi' is more time-consuming than I ever imagined. Balancing this new responsibility with marathon training would have been a Herculean feat.
Rediscovering My Stride: Thursday, I went for my first run after weeks of rest. Surprisingly, my body felt incredible! It was a testament to resilience and the muscle memory built over countless miles.
From Runner to Cheerleader
Today, I won’t be racing against the wind or chasing a personal record. Instead, I’ll be there for my people, shouting words of encouragement, and clapping with all my might, possibly ringing a cowbell. I’ve embraced my old role: that of a cheerleader. Life might not always go as planned, but the way I respond to its twists and turns deepens my relationship with God. I choose to cheer, to pray, to celebrate the achievements of others, and to find strength in the face of adversity.
In the end, this marathon, though different from what I envisioned. It is a testament to my “Show Grit Never Quit” mentality. It's a reminder that life’s detours might lead to unexpected places, but with God, purpose and meaning can be discovered, even on the sidelines.
Today, I am not just a runner; I am a cheerleader, and that, too, is a victory.
Inspirational Quote: "Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans." - Allen Saunders