Where are you going?


I am no Superman
I have no reasons for you
I am no hero
Oh, that's for sure
But I do know one thing
Is where you are is where I belong
I do know where you go
Is where I want to be
. Where are you going? ”
– Dave Matthews

“Jennifer, my life is in turmoil right now.  The thing with my brother in law did not work out and I am in dyer straights.”

I received this text from a Back on My Feet team member at 10:25 last night.  After talking to him, I found that he was feeling frustrated about having to start all over.  I assured him that he had come a long way, and that this was just a bump in the road.  I also knew at that moment that I was not going to run Wasatch, and I was giving him advice that I needed to hear. 

Accepting my injury (in such a SMALL part of my foot) after 10 years of pain free running has been difficult.  Sitting still is extremely tough for me, and letting go of this goal race is devastating.  I’ve put in many miles, sets, laps, sweaty, hot runs and early mornings; but the emotional highs and lows of trying to make it to the starting line with an injury has been more toilsome on me than any training I’ve ever put in.  I’ve seen doctors, PT’s, chiropractors and acupuncturists.  I’ve gotten hours of advice, walked around in a cumbersome boot and cried caustic tears.  I’m exhausted- and it’s not from training. 

The homeless must feel the same weariness; beat from many miles on the recovery treadmill, dizzy and weak lacking proper nutrition, disabled with disappointments.   Wow.   I am not homeless.   I will heal.   I have many caring friends and coaches.  I am blessed. 

Our team members persevere to get back on their feet, and I know that I will do the same.  There is always a new challenge, always a race, and I would not be a good coach if I didn’t follow my own advice. 

Life gives us the wonderful gift of tenacity.   Thank you for supporting my fundraising campaign so others can have hope.   My new hope is that I will be at the starting line of the Cactus Rose 100.   I know for sure that I will take on this challenge with a smile on my face, and a grateful heart.  Besides, where you are my friends……is where I want to be. 

Comments

  1. 'Lose the battle, win the war!' You'll be back with a vengeance! Good to shut it down for now. 'Adventures of an ordinary girl? Who does extraordinary things!' That's who you are...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Mark! This hasn't been easy, but I've had a lot of help from my friends. Letting go has been freeing and I feel relieved. :)

      Delete
  2. you will come back more determined & better than before!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ben-
      I talked to my friend Matt Crownover today who is a pastor and super runner. He told me about having to take almost a whole year off, but coming back with PR's the year after that!
      It's just a detour for sure :)

      Delete
  3. Replies
    1. Brandon-
      You're welcome :) I hope that it helps to put life in perspective a bit.
      It's just running.

      Delete
  4. Sucky!! Heal up and I hope to see you at Wasatch another year. Good luck with your recovery.

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular Posts