Life is a Marathon
I stood in awe, tears running down my face. These were not pretty crocodile teardrops but the brimming- emotion-mingled-with-snot kind of weeping as I cheered and applauded. I had the privilege of being present at the 2022 Chicago Marathon and watched some of the fastest runners in the world race by about 20 feet from where I stood. I was stunned. As I saw the beads of sweat on their faces, the strain of muscles as they kept pace, eyes sharp with focus, I was moved by the powerful grace of runners fully committed to the rhythm of their goal. Throughout the entire 6. 5 hours allotted for the marathon, I was stirred by athletes of every ability. Again and again, I was humbled to witness the human spirit moving to the beat of its dreams and aspirations.
I served this year in one of the medical tents at the Chicago Marathon. As a runner and a psychologist, it was an honor to be on hand to assist athletes move through the pain of injury, the disappointment of time lost, and to help manage the emotional stress of the moment. When I wasn’t assisting physicians with a runner down, I remained on the edge of the crowd, observing and cheering on the thousands of amazing athletes throughout the day.
Below are some of the insights that struck me that day as an athlete and as member of the human race.
You can laugh and cry when being challenged
It is okay to ask for help when you need it
Disappointment is best experienced together, it helps to hold hands when you think you can’t go on
It is okay when you think you can’t get up and keep going, it is safe to acknowledge what you are feeling
Compassionate self-talk helps us to go the distance
You can usually find your strength after a little rest
Know your reason for being and put it on a t-shirt (or just tell others who can spur you on)
When you know your purpose, all the effort is worth it
Elites to the final finisher, no matter the speed of each runner, I saw thousands of people persevere towards a goal, rely on others to push through, and their determination to strive, achieve, and grow. The human spirit and mind are powerful. When we practice tools such as awareness, assessment, and action we get clear about what we want or need. Then we are better able to move towards our longings and dreams, support ourselves through our suffering and challenges, and ultimately learn more about who we are.
Want to feel inspired?
Try these few ideas:
Make a list of your top 10 achievements this year (big and small)
Clarify 3 areas in life where you want to create change and growth
Share both of these lists with someone who is a great fan of yours
Decide how you will celebrate your accomplishments and take next steps towards your goals.
Wherever your heart wants to go, may you continue to find clarity, supportive practices for yourself, and healing and peace in all your endeavors.
You’re Not Alone
Whatever challenge you are moving through, know that you are not alone.
Please contact us at the Center for Vitality and Balance or see the Resource Page to discover how we can help.