Two Days. Sunday.
YES, WE CAN!!!
Ever since coming back from IM 70.3 Cozumel it has been a roller coaster of emotions – with a bout of bronchitis, then another problem exacerbated by the intense coughing – I have been relegated to the sidelines of training for the Army 10 Miler followed by the MCM.
I had nothing but fear, doubt and uncertainty that I would be able to run the MCM let alone the Army 10, but last weekend I went out there with no expectations. All I wanted to do was beat the cutoff times and get in some kind of training – some version of distance before the MCM.
AND IT WAS A GLORIUS DAY FOR A RUN. I felt great, refreshed. I actually looked up and looked around to take in the beauty of the city, talk to other runners and since I was all back of the bus – offer some encouragement to those who had their heads down. Si Se Puede. You CAN do it. It made my day and quickened my steps when I say Princess Erin at mile 6 and 7. When I saw BK with the cow bell (you NEVER have enough cow bell) at mile 7 right before going across the 14th St. Bridge and off to the finish line, I KNEW I had it in the bag.
Now, as I approach Sunday and 26.2 miles- I pray. I pray for me and I pray for my run buddy as well as all the runners who are winners in my book for getting up Sunday morning, lacing up their shoes and putting their toe on the line. WINNERS.
Search me, oh Lord, and try me; test my soul and my heart.
For your kindness is before my eyes, and I [run] in your truth.
Psalm 26:2-3
I know I will be tested, but He will be with me every step of the way.
The Runner's Prayer
Father God,
Watch over me Sunday as I run.
It is the day
and it is the time for the race.
Watch over my body.
Keep it free from injury.
Watch over my mind.
May I listen to the signals from within
as I enjoy the scenes from without.
Watch over my spirit.
Keep my heart and ears open for your voice.
Give strength to my steps
Watch over my fellow marathoners.
Remind us that we all are struggling equally.
I believe I am not running or struggling alone.
Lord,
Let me win.
Not by coming in ahead of my friends, but by beating myself.
Let it be an inner win.
A battle won over me.
And may I say at the end,
"I have fought a good fight.
I have finished the race.
I have kept the faith." 2Timothy4:7
Adapted from The Ultrarunner’s Prayer by Carolyn Erdman & Jay Hodde
See you out there! God BLESS!
