I subscribe to Runner's World magazine's "Daily Kick in the Butt" e-mail service. This service sends me a quote every day, and sometimes the quotes are too good not to share. Here's today's inspiration: "In running it is man against himself, the cruelest of opponents. The other runners are not the real enemies. His adversary lies within him, in his ability with brain and heart to master himself and his emotions."
- GLENN CUNNINGHAM, American runner in the 1930s
Every time I hit the road, especially for my long runs, I realize that no one can make me start or stop running. It it is my decision alone. Let's face it: my marathon will be a competition with myself and no one else. I will never win a marathon. The true winners of the race will finish many hours before I cross the finish line. The way I "win" at White Rock is to finish the darn thing and prove to myself that I can do it. At this point in my training, it is less about my physical fitness and more about my mental health. I am hoping and praying that I can keep it all together in the next 39 days with moving and changing jobs. My positive take on this is that it will give me something else to focus on while I am tapering for the marathon. I am still very sore from last weekend's half marathon. I attribute my soreness to the heat and the long car ride home. Although I am unsure if it is a good idea, I am giving myself a few days off this week to recover and mentally prepare for this weekend's 20-miler. I think this is the best idea for me, especially in light of the fact that was difficult for me to walk from my car to my office this morning! I will keep you posted on my progress...
3 comments:
Keep putting one foot in front of the other. I am living vicariously through you and your running, but I don't seem to be getting any fitter. Imagine. Good luck. When do you move?
We are our own worst enemy at times so it's only natural that we'd be our own toughest opponent, too. Can you imagine what we could accomplish if we quit working against ourselves and got on our own team??? Good for you for resting this week. Not only do you need a physical rest, but maybe you need a mental health break, too.
If I know anything about my sister, it's that she is mentally strong. I'm not worried about your determination to do your best and finish what you started. Rest, relax, have a GREAT week!
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