Our Run for God group ran our celebratory race at Arbuckle Acres in Brownsburg. The route was completely shaded and beautiful. At times it was even dangerous...with the falling walnuts and all.
We started the race and the faster runners pulled ahead pretty quickly. I soon found myself completely alone on the trail. The first mile was definitely the hardest for me, but I seemed to fall into a rhythm after that. I told myself just to finish running the second mile and then I could decide if I was able to run the third mile. I finished the second mile and decided I was going for it!
The third mile was a mental battle. I went back and forth about running or walking. I even told myself that no one would even know if I walked it. But I would know, and I kept reminding myself that integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
Then the song "By Your Side" by Tenth Avenue North came on my iPod. This song is not a great running song because it is slow paced. However, the song means a great deal to me. I remember listening to the song when my dad went through his scary whipple surgery. I remember it bringing comfort to me during my darkest days after my father passed away. I put it on repeat. The first time it played I was teary-eyed, but I let the words comfort me and strengthen me. I listened to the song until I crossed the finish line.
Crossing the finish line is a feeling I cannot describe. I never thought I would be able to do it, but now I know I am capable of a lot more than I thought I was.
Who do I have to thank for this wonderful day? Well besides Jesus, I want to give a huge shout out to the awesome Run for God group that I was blessed to be a part of for the last twelve weeks. Here is a picture of these amazing, inspiring people!
This group of people was the best! I loved hearing stories about how running while giving glory to God touched and changed lives! I will treasure the friendships I made during the time with this group.
