November 20, 2007

the inspiration...

where to begin... last night i went to happy hour with some clients, in celebration of completing a huge project. at the table of 9 of us - 4 people had all run at least one marathon (one woman about 50-ish has run multiple marathons, and one man (my boss) has done 12 marathons and multiple iron mans). besides being surrounded by these astounding runners, another amazing soul was in our presence. a young man, not yet 25 years of age, who was articulate, funny, and all-around delightful joined us. and i feel it is a gross understatement to say he's miraculous and inspiring. a few years ago, while training for a marathon, the young man suffered some kind of accident. this accident left him a parapalegic. from his electric wheelchair, with his assistance dog beside him, he contributed to the conversation in so many ways. he seemed very happy and well-adjusted even given the certain trials he has overcome. he explained that being in such good physical shape while training for the marathon actually saved his life, because his heart was capable of enduring that much trauma to his body. i can't get over how amazing this young man is. he spoke of his new-bride with a special sparkle in his eye, and happily discussed life-events. it makes me wonder how i would react if i ever had to face such a situation.

as i participated in friendly banter with these new acquiantances, i was reminded of the many times i've thought about trying to run races. i have strained to finish two separate 5k races in the past, but i want to do more. last night's conversations have left me feeling very inspired. i can't say that i super enjoy running (perhaps what's been holding me back in the past), but i do enjoy when i do well at running. and with more practice, i will get better at it. so, i'm setting a goal for myself. i am going to run a 5k race this winter...and if i survive that, i hope to run a second 5k race this winter. if all goes well with those two races, i would really like to try either a half marathon or a 10 mile race...i best get training! last night i managed to run 2.2 miles on the treadmill...a very good run for a girl who hasn't been running much lately.
wish me luck...
(and any words of wisdom, inspiration...or a running buddy are all much needed and appreciated!)

2 comments:

Stacy said...

YOU GO GIRL!! I would totally sign up for a 5k in the spring (I would need that much time to get ready for it! haha) I have always wanted to run a race too...good luck, I know you can do it!!

willikat said...

i walk 5ks. you can see the scenery better that way. :) the problem with running in the cold is that bleeding-lungs feeling. not that i'm trying to not encourage you. . . i totally am. . . but failing. oh dammit. i'm so behind you!!!!