Today I ran in the Wounded Warrior Project 8K—before you run
off and do the conversion, that is approximately 4.97 miles. It’s probably one
of my favorite races to run. Not because of the course, or the swag, or the
entertainment. It’s one of my favorites because of the wounded warriors
themselves. While I am thankful for
their service, what touches me more is their indomitable will to move forward. The
soldiers whom I see running in the race or in the bike ride inspire me to push
beyond what someone else may see as my “possibility.”
Around the 4 mile mark today I was passed by a soldier in a
face mask and combat boots who was pushing another soldier in a wheelchair. Back
at the 3 mile marker I saw the older man from last year pushing his walker
along the course—head down, eyes focused, moving forward. Another team of
solders had finished the race—carrying Old Glory—and ran back to escort
and encourage others towards the finish line. Even at this event, they were
giving their time in service to others.
This year has been tough. I've been told three times, by
three different doctors to stop running. One told me to stop lifting heavy
weights. Another told me to stop doing lunges and squats. For a minute I did
heed their advice. And then my spirit started to question what was really
possible. What more might I accomplish if I simply push past this moment? Should I surrender to what they say is
possible?
Don’t get me wrong, I know that we have to heed our doctor’s
advice. I understand their reasoning. But I also know that their word is not
law. Five years ago a team of doctors kept telling me that I would develop
diabetes…yeah, NOT. Instead of letting their prognosis debilitate me, I take
better care of myself. I make sure I take a rest day, stretch, ice as needed,
get monthly massages, etc. etc. etc.
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| "Heroes" running for Heroes |
So running among the warriors in this race this time around,
I felt somewhat kindred. While our scars are of different origin, I
understand a little bit about the spirit, the will, the vision, the courage it
takes to move past “can’t” into “can.” I know what it feels like to conquer. Even as all my co-workers passed me, it didn't bother me the way it did a few months ago. Just being there with the ability to finish was enough for me. When I tell you that I took moments to enjoy the colors of the trees, encourage a few other runners, shout out to my co-workers, high-five volunteers...just being there was freaking awesome.
The icing on the cake for me during this race is when, at
4.39 miles in, a 60 year old gentleman with one hip and a survivor of a number
of knee surgeries told me that I kept him pushing up the hills because I wouldn't
stop. We made a pact to run the final stretch and not let each other stop. When
he ran across the finish line I gave him the biggest hug. This life is
magnificent! Use your pitfalls as opportunities to triumph and inspire others. Today I remember that all things are possible, if I have the faith to believe it and the will to move towards the vision.
