the biggest lesson I learned this year
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2014 was a monumental year for me. A lot of my focus and dedication was on one massive goal - running the NYC Marathon. This is something I never imagined I would be able to accomplish. Running three miles was a challenge for me. Running 26.2 felt nearly impossible.
So I started small with what I knew I could do. On these smaller runs I challenged myself by finding the hills and struggling my way up them. It wasn't always easy and I am sure it never looked pretty but I made it to the top, and each time I did my body was a little bit stronger.
Then slowly I increased my mileage. Step by step and with each bump up I was in awe that I had did it and proud of myself for making it that far. Three miles became five miles. Five miles became ten miles. Ten miles became 20 miles. I couldn't believe it. I was doing it. I was actually doing it.
Sometime between fighting myself to run just three miles and still standing and smiling at mile 15 I fell in love with running. I was grateful for the time it gave me to be with my thoughts, lose myself, travel down roads I never knew existed, and experience cheers from complete strangers. Training for the NYC Marathon shifted something in me that I didn't realize needed shifting.
With each new run under my belt I felt stronger, braver, and more fierce. I held pride in my heart for showing up even when I didn't want to. I had set a goal for myself and I didn't give up on it, even when it was hard I kept on going.
I learned that when I put my mind to something I can accomplish it.
I learned that I have an enormous support system cheering me on each step of the way.
I learned that it isn't always going to be easy.
I learned that there will be days when I won't want to do it but then I will show up and be so glad that I did.
I learned that there is still opportunity to fall in love
I learned that when I stay open I find my way.
I am grateful that I had the opportunity to run the NYC Marathon. Grateful to those who inspired me to give it a try and to those who supported me along my journey. I never thought that running would teach me so much, but it has and for that I am in awe.
