The Second Half.

There's a second, as if the first wasn't good enough. Today was the day for Race for the Roses in Portland, OR. There were almost 5,000 people signed up, but only about 1800 did the half marathon. I was a little sore going into it from falling off less than 48 hours previously. I couldn't do anything on Saturday, so it was mostly cold turkey. The week before my first half marathon I drank tons of water, was super conscious about what I was eating, exercised at all the right times, etc. This time I stood in an arena, only ran about 7 miles this week and 14 the week before. I rode horses and fell off, but took lots of Ibuprofen an hour before the start time. The first eight miles went super! I made it up the long steep hil and came flying down on the other side. I loved the view of the city, the sound of the DJ's and the spectators on the side. However, at mile 8 someone says to me, "We have already gone eight miles, we only have five to go." When I heard "the only five to go" I felt Debbie downer inside of me hit a wall. I immediately slowed my pace (subconsciously of course.) The second downer moment was at mile 11 when I overheard someone tell their friend that we weren't far, but just had to run all the way down to Salmon ST. and turn around. All I heard was "Run ALL THE WAY down to Salmon St." I didn't even know where Salmon St. was, but it sounded further than I wanted to think about. Actually, by this time, I had less than two miles to go. I pressed on. I did have to stop twice to stretch. My legs were so tight and my muscles were tired. However, I could breathe!!! I relate this moments to that in my spiritual life. At the time these things were said, especially the first one, I was feeling strong and confident, so sure of my time and energy. However, when I listened to outside sources, one wasn't even directed at me, I found myself feel heavy, discouraged and wondering if this was all worth it. The lesson I learned was this: don't listen, don't allow yourself to be swayed by outside sources and your strength must come from within.
On the course I met a young lady that I shared alot of similarities with, so that was kind of cool. I sprinted at the end towards the finish line.... and I mean, for Jessica, it was fast. My hips, back and knees hurt immensely right now. I am going to go to bed. Good night.