Gentleman of Inspiration

Wow, I can't believe it's been over a month since I last posted anything.  This summer has gone by way too fast.  Why is it that each year seems to go by faster then the last?  It's just not fair. 

This summer I decided to get back into jogging.  I don't run, I'm far to slow for that.  But jogging, I can do.  I didn't go for about 3 weeks due to Girls Camp and recovery from that.  Yesterday was the first time back on the trail and back to running.  I wanted to push myself but no too much.  As I came around the loop on the trail I run on I was going to stop.  As I was about to pass a few older gentlemen one of them noticed me and remarked, " You look like you go about my pace, may I join you?"  A little surprised I said yes.  Even though I was going to stop and start walking.  I ended up jogging with this older gentlemen almost to the beginning of the trail.  I was stunned that I could have gone that far.  This gentlemen started running when he was 42 years old.  Currently he is 69.  He's run 13 or 15 marathons, including St. George and Boston, and over 200 10 and 5k's.  What an inspiration!  Little did he know that he was encouraging me on that day.  I realized that I can push myself harder then I ever though possible. 

Before my run that day, I was doubting that I would be able run in a 5k in September.  A goal I set for myself at the beginning of the summer.  Watching myself yesterday, it was confirmed to me again that I am stronger then I think I am.  I'm like my kids sometimes.  I would rather do what is easier, rather then stretch and make myself grow and do hard things.  Life is about doing hard things.  Running when your 40lbs overweight is a hard thing to do.  At the same time, very rewarding. 

I am ready to finish off my summer strong, doing hard things that make me grow.