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Running

Thoughts on the Day Before My First Marathon


The months of preparation are behind me. I’ve tapered off my practice so my body is ready (hopefully) for tomorrow. There is nothing left to do now but judiciously load up on carbs tonight and arrive at the race, on time, tomorrow. Then the real fun begins!

Here are some thoughts as I look forward to my first marathon.

There were dozens of mornings that I blocked out the impulse of staying in bed because I wanted to put in the mileage. There were some times last month when I wondered if I would make it because my shoes broke down and gave my heels blisters. But today, I think I am ready. Lord willing, I persevered.

I’ve been reminded discipline with a goal can allow you to do things you never considered possible. You can do more than you think. It takes a goal and determination to get you places. It takes focus to turn down some good things in order to go for something better.

I also learned age isn’t near as limiting as we think. People don’t lose their edge because they get older. They lose their edge because they get comfortable. As we get older, we may think we’ve earned some comfort. Nonsense! A lifestyle focused on comfort is a lifestyle that ages people more than physical aging. 

Two years ago, my wife and I left comfort in order to pursue what we felt God called us to. I am glad we did. Comfort doesn’t do much beyond making our bodies and mind atrophy. I’d rather be on the edge and pursue some big, hairy, audacious goals (BHAG‘s). Let’s do it!

By Kevin Spear

I am a content creator and storyteller based in Florida, where I work for OneHope. I love digital and content marketing, writing, and the occasional doodle.