Yesterday, I saw a good runner friend of mine. Aside from running, we have a lot of personal things in common. Our fathers passed away a long time ago but just one year apart from each other. Our wives celebrate the same birthday. We were married the same year. And our children belong to the same dance group. It was through our children, as a matter of fact, how we met.
Every time we see each other, we talk endlessly about running. The funny thing is that we haven't actually even ran together. The closest we have had to a running "date" was when he offered to take pictures of me running as part of his lifestyle photography collection http://www.chrislerma.com/gallery/6113152_VdNnm. My epic praying runner picture was taken by no less than my good friend.
I mentioned to him yesterday that I was having a running and writing block. Only 10 miles the last 7 days; and no new post for the last 9 days. I briefly elaborated about it while he listened attentively to me. Then we continued shop talking about running. As usual, like every time we meet, we'd never stop unless it's time to go. Before we parted ways, he told me that lately he's been inspired to pray while running and how much it's giving him clarity and peace of mind when he comes back home. He thanked me and he bid me to keep running and writing.
Today I ran and wrote this entry. Thank you, Chris, for that gentle nudge. It's just what I needed to get me going again.
I was wondering where you were. Keep on praying and running, we are counting on you over here! I need prayer to persevere, our half marathon is coming up on Dec. 3rd! Please add me and my husband to your list.
ReplyDeleteI'm doing a count down to your race! Let's keep praying for each other. I will say a special prayer to St. Jude in whose honor the hospital you are running for is named after. Thank you for your thoughts!
ReplyDeleteSt. Jude is my patron for this race and I have been praying to him for the repose of my mother's soul and a few other intentions. I will begin a novena to St. Jude starting on Thanksgiving in preparation for the race. Thanks for counting down and praying for me! My husband is more than ready for the race and I have struggled through 12 miles! But that is O.K. because I have taken this on as a pilgrimage. Of course we are offering this for the children at St. Jude's hospital, praying for healing miracles for them and in thanksgiving for a friends daughter who won her fight with cancer there. Pray for her mom who is running the whole marathon for the first time! She has done the half before but never a whole marathon. Thanks so much. It is nice to know that you are out there praying!
ReplyDeleteYou are too kind Joey! It is you that have inspired me to keep running. Hey, you are so right...."We haven't ran together yet!" The reason is that I'm too slow and unfit. I need to get rid of my fat and reduce my blood pressure. How about we do a run to cheesecake factory? I bet we can gain 2000+ calories instead of losing it on a 2 hour run. What do you think?....LOL. Joey, seriously, thank you for your kindness and good heart. You are a blessing to me and to all whom you touch in life. Thank you for being part of my life. Your Bud, Chris.
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