Anything Can Happen If You Let It

I have never been mistaken for an athlete while walking down the street, however, the spirit of the athlete is in me.

I am a portly fellow, have been all my life. Still, I chose to do things that aren’t easy for me to do. I have chosen running as a hobby for similar reasons as I enjoy writing. The solitude as I run allows me to collect my thoughts and reflect on the events of the day and week. I have chosen to write this blog to chronicle my training for the 2015 Walt Disney World Full Marathon. This will combine both of the things I am interested in and give you a window into my soul. Please click the link and listen to the song of the week. I will try to find a song that goes with the theme of my writing for that week.

This morning’s mission seemed simple enough, a five mile run, alternating between 2 minute walks and 30 second runs. About a mile in I would come to find that while simple in theory, my mind and body were in two different states of preparedness. That is to say my mind was willing but after a mile of these intervals and some pretty intense shin pains, I would have to walk the remaining 4 miles. In the end I would get through all 5 miles, but it would prove to be a battle most of the way. I think a little rest is in order so that I can continue to train properly.

At this point I’m not concerned as I still have plenty of time to get to where I need to be. It is a tough pill to swallow though. From the beginning this morning my mind was cluttered with thoughts, distracted, and I realize now that the path to success involves the harmonious work of mind and body. I’m sure that sounds very much like I’m reading tea leaves and I sit in my turban and stare into a crystal ball, but I’ve learned this morning that it is absolutely true.

Today’s lesson was much more than learning whether or not I could do an interval run, it was a lesson in focus. We lead very complex and cluttered lives, but I have learned this morning that the way to accomplish a goal is to devote yourself wholly to the cause. As many of you know I started running for years ago, as a way to raise money for Give Kids the World. It seemed to me that if those kids could battle some terrible illnesses that I should be able to sacrifice and do something for them.

It has been an interesting couple of years, and though I have accomplished most of the goals I have set in that time, I see now that the same focus and devotion should be given to all of my endeavors. I fully encourage anyone reading this to discover a hobby that gives you the time you need to reflect. Whatever that may be, take the time, learn the craft, and enjoy the time you dedicate. The only limit to your abilities are those you impose, follow your dreams and you’ll never be lost.