Friday, December 30, 2011

3 Ways To A More Resolute Running (Part 3)

1. Consistency vs. Mileage

2. Eating Healthy vs. A Weight Loss Diet Plan

3. Habit vs. Hobby

I did not run today because…

A.  “I’m too tired!”
B.  “I’m too busy.”
C.  “It’s too hard.”

If your answer is A, of course running will get you even more tired. But remember, running will also improve your aerobic capacity which will increase your endurance for your day’s activities. Eventually you will feel more energetic like at work and less tired at the end of the day.

If your answer is B, then it shows that running is not in the higher rungs of your ladder of priorities.  Your resolve to take on running this New Year will soon fade away. If you consider running only when you have some spare time, like a hobby or special interest, your running resolve will not get very far.

If your answer is C, then you’re off to a good start towards a more resolute running this year.

For your running resolution to lift off this New Year, you need to bump it up higher in your list of important things. In addition, it is also essential to recognize that this will take a very personal and internal desire to do it and do it repeatedly.  You want to make running a habit in your life.

Sometimes, starting a new habit means breaking old ones. Old habits are deeply imbedded in our routine.  It will take tremendous willpower to break out of the pull of old tendencies like making excuses, procrastination, and impatience. Starting a habit is like flying a space shuttle according to Stephen Covey, author of “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." It takes a lot of energy in launching it in the beginning. In fact more exertion is spent in the first few miles of lift-off than in the next thousands of miles of journey around the earth. Once you break out of the gravity pull, soaring in the sky takes less effort.  This New Year, as you start running, expect some challenges but persevere. Eventually, like looking at the earth from space, your view on running will take on a whole new dimension.

My wish for you this New Year is to find that new perspective on running.  Discover your reason/s for running. If you don’t mind, write to me about it.

And if you are so inspired to take on running as a resolution this New Year but unsure of a reason, I like to suggest and share mine:  Praying.

Thursday, December 29, 2011

3 Ways To A More Resolute Running (Part 2)

1. Consistency vs. Mileage

2. Eating Healthy vs. A Weight Loss Diet Plan

Running has everything to do about eating. A runner runs on food like a car runs on gas. When you decide to take on running, it is important to also start watching what you eat.

The most common resolution tied up with running is dieting to lose weight. The problem with following a weight-loss diet plan, especially the low-carb diet, is that you lose weight fast, but gain them right back as soon as you stop dieting. Yes, dieting results in immediate weight loss. However, it shouldn't be your primary mindset towards a new you. Even before you start thinking of shedding the pounds, you need to start thinking eating healthy first.

Here are a few general tips to eating healthy. First, follow an old adage of eating only until you are 80% full. Never heard of it? It is also called eating in moderation. Unfortunately, our modern media has influenced our appetite to eat as much as you can and to supersize your portion. Studies have shown that portion sizes in fast food stores have increased by as much as five times larger than what it was 30 to 40 years ago. In other words, our idea of the right portion meal has also changed. People ask me as a runner if I have a special diet. I say, "I watch my portion size and I watch what I eat."

Secondly, limit your intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods. Examples are fried foods, processed foods, and full-fat dairy products. These foods can lead to heart problems. On the other hand, eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. These rich-fiber foods regulate blood sugar and promote a sense of fullness. Not only do they reduce the risk of heart disease, they also help you lose weight.

Yes, weight loss is the desired tangible result but that shouldn't be your goal. This new year, start eating healthy. Moderate your portion size and be smart about choosing your food. But let me gently remind you that like running, the results you want to see will take some work. You can't replace your body like you can replace your old car with a brand new one. However, you can always do a tune-up to keep it running smoothly. The sooner you make up your mind to eat healthy, the better off you'll be.

3. Habit vs. Hobby

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

3 Ways To A More Resolute Running (Part 1)

'Tis the time of the year for resolutions. Why not? I still personally believe in New Year's Resolutions. Life goes in cycles and it does gives us opportunities to renew, reset, and recharge our lives. The start of a new year is one of those times where we could set new resolves for ourselves.

When it comes to your running resolution, here are 3 ways you could approach it to increase the likelihood of a more  enduring and resolute running.

1. Consistency vs. Mileage

Forget about mileage. Don't worry about the total distance covered in a week. Don't set a number of miles as a goal. What you ought to count is the number of times you get out the door to do a running workout. Measure your rate of consistency in running as your bar for success more than you do the amount in miles you ran. With all the available running gadgets and GPS apps, it is so easy to record your running in miles and use the data as your measure of progress. This is not so bad; but as a caveat, setting mileage as a goal to launch your running resolution is not sustainable. Increasing your mileage unnecessarily can lead to injuries. Running is a simple one-motion exercise but a high impact workout. Running too much too soon can overstress your bones and joints. This can make your next running workout painful and may discourage you from running again.

To ensure more success with your running resolution, set a frequency rate. The goal is to develop consistency and establish a solid running routine.  Most successful runners, from average to elite levels, are creatures of habit. Set the number of times over a week to do running workouts then stick with it. Using your old, reliable wall calendar, desk or notebook planner, draw a smiley face on each day you run in a week as planned. Keep it gadget-free and simply tally the number of times you successfully followed through with your commitment to run. As you see progress, feel free to brag about it to your friends and say "Hey, I ran 3x this week!"  Just in case any smarty runner asks you how long do you run in a day, simply tell them, "Long enough to enjoy running."  Just remember that even if you are new to running, it will give you a similar experience as a veteran runner would after a run. To build consistency in running, you need to see its benefits to you versus the standards other people set onto it.

2. Eating Healthy vs. A Weight Loss Diet Plan

Friday, December 23, 2011

Running with Open Hands

Lightly clenched fist, cupped hands like holding a potato chip without crushing it. This is a usual description of the hands in the proper running form.

How about running open handed, palms facing up? I do this sometimes when during my prayer runs, my praying becomes fervent. Yesterday, finding myself outdoors and running during a tough time grieving this Christmas season, I felt very thankful. Warmed by the sunshine and carried by the cool breeze, running lightly on a quiet trail, I opened my running hands and broke into reciting this prayer - A Prayer for Generosity.

Dearest Lord, Teach me to be generous. Teach me to serve you as I should. To give and not to count the cost. To fight and not to heed the wounds. To toil and not to seek for rest. To labor and ask not for reward. Save that of knowing, that I do Your most holy will.
Running with open hands. Not the best for your running form. But in a prayerful moment, it is a fitting gesture of thanksgiving and in my run today, a symbol of generosity. I ask the Lord to teach me to be more generous in my work to minister to others and in my life in general.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Running and Grieving

What's the similarity? They're both difficult during Winter/Christmas time.

I've ran for thousands of miles through the years but I still have a running slump every winter time. I'm 9 months old into the grieving process and it still sucks, most especially now at Christmas time. I miss my wife terribly.

I know one thing for sure. The only way I could overcome the difficulty is to go through them. There is no other way to get out of the running rut but to get out there and run. I need to get over the winter lethargy and the frosty weather. And as for missing my beloved wife, the only way towards my healing is to go through the painful stages to transform my grief into a growth experience.

I like to request for your prayers to help me get through these tough times. I am having a hard time without my wife to feel the spirit of Christmas joy as well as the joy of running. I need to regain the strength to enthusiastically run and pray for other people. After all, inspired by my wife, I strive to be a Praying Runner. But today, I wear my vulnerability like a cross around me. Please pray for me to find peace, joy, and strength this Christmas.

P.S. Update:  I ran 15 miles today. I prayed for my own special intention and for a dear family friend - Fred V., who passed away December 16th after battling cancer.  He showed our family the most sympathetic support like no other during my wife's battle.  I am glad I got to talk to you three weeks ago. Please say hello to my wife up in heaven.

Saturday, December 10, 2011

Finally A First

My wife loved Walnut Creek, CA.  We went shopping there, ate out, went to the Farmer's Market, watch our son play away games in basketball, watched movies, went to the Art and Wine Festival, watched concerts, a whole lot of things except run.  So finally for the first time a run in Walnut Creek.  This one's for you, my Love, on the eve of what should have been our 16th wedding anniversary. Missing you terribly, but I had a good run today.  I love you so much!

Missing you terribly...

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Sacrament(o) of Running

Just got back from a marathon in Sacramento (CIM). A capacity 9,000 strong runners in attendance, including the relay teams. Beautiful people, perfect weather, a great race in the runner-friendly city of Sacramento.

There I am in the midst of a community of runners and a crowd of cheering and supportive people. It is CIM's 29th successful running and have continuously grown in numbers and supporters. This is my 6th running of CIM and in each time I have felt the same joy and excitement of running this race.

During the run, I am honored to meet a couple of people. No less than the President of the Board of Directors of CIM, Denis Zilaf, who prayed and ran with me for a mile or so. Douglas, from Fleet Feet of Menlo Park who asked to pray for him that God lead him to an opportunity to lead a faith group in his church; and Chris W. who was inspired to pray during his runs after he saw me at a race in Half Moon Bay. He plans to run 52 half-marathons in 2012 in honor of his daughter Grace.

Most of the time though I fervently prayed and pondered in my heart all the prayer intentions that were sent to me. Praying for others during the run was where I felt a feeling of fulfillment much greater than finishing the marathon. Like a sacrament, running in Sacramento today was a reminder of God's presence in our lives and His great love for us. I thank God for being able to run with other runners today, pray with others, and pray for others.

You were always there at CIM to meet me at the finish
and take away my medal and put it around you.
Here it is, my Love. I love you and miss you so much!

Friday, December 2, 2011

Praying For You

Running California International Marathon (CIM) this Sunday, December 4th  is special.  It will be my 25th marathon. It's one of the running destinations where my wife, son, and I started a tradition. It's one of the marathon races I've encouraged a few friends to run a marathon. It's the marathon I ran before my wife passed away.

As a tradition, we hear Mass at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Downtown Sacramento.  A very beautiful church which I always look forward to going the eve of the marathon. Then, I enjoy the evening with a dinner with runner friends - a few of them I'm happy to say I introduced to marathon running. Last year, I ran CIM with a heavy heart. My wife's condition was not getting any better. Three months later, she passed after a long battle with breast cancer. A lot of people prayed with me as I ran that race in her honor.

This year, I'm running this race in her memory. Along with a few others who I'm offering this run for - my friend Chris's mom who just passed away today. Also in memory of Reynaldo Santos. To Tess P., who is fighting ovarian cancer. To Fred V., who was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. To my brother who is in the hospital.

To two running friends, Lisa A. and Larissa O., who trained hard for months on end. They will run in the St. Jude Memphis Marathon on Saturday. It will be their first half-marathon. God speed to both of you! Thank you, too, for remembering my wife in your prayers as you run.  Also, to my friend Alvin, who is running 50 mile North Face Challenge also on Saturday. Alvin ran with me in the San Francisco Marathon the whole way to support me during my grieving.

A few more prayer intentions as I run - for Sara N. who is going through RCIA and also will be running the Half Marathon in Walnut Creek; and to my son who devotes his basketball games in memory of his mom.

You can still send me your prayer intentions which I will bring with me as I run CIM in prayer. If you are running this weekend, too, join me in spirit of prayer.

In memory of my wife.
I will be running with a pink rose in hand
during the CIM 2011 in Sacramento, CA

Monday, November 28, 2011

Be Watchful

During the late fall and winter season, the sun down catches me still on the road running. This is when I'm extra alert and mindful of my surroundings when I run. When it's dark on the busy roads, I can never be too careful with watching my steps and crossing the street and just being super watchful.

As we start the Christmas season, the Gospel reading on the First Sunday of Advent reminds us of the need for watchfulness. Nobody knows when the time or our time will come. So, the Gospel emphasizes the need to be prepared. And there is no better time to prepare our hearts for Christ's coming than this Christmas season.

One way you could prepare yourself is to find God's presence in everything you do. Running can help you become more mindful of God's presence. For example, while running, pray the rosary, repeat your favorite Bible verse as you breath in and out, ponder on your blessings for the days, or pray for someone you love today. And when extraneous thoughts or road hazards distract you, return to your prayerful mode - remind yourself of God's presence in everything. This is what really means to be watchful.

This Christmas, I am dedicating all my runs in prayer for you and your special intentions. I also offer my runs in loving memory of my wife who I am missing so painfully this Christmas season. You can support me by praying for me as well. And if you are so inspired, do a prayer run, too.

So, on this First Sunday of Advent, I am happy to offer you my Christmas gift of prayer...





Saturday, November 26, 2011

Oxygen Debt

Breathing very, very hard and my leg muscles starting to feel fatigued, I finally reached the highest elevation of the  course after a 2 mile steep climb at 944 feet at the peak. That's an experience of oxygen debt.

It was a hilly pilgrimage run to Santa Maria Parish in Orinda, CA today. I was aware of the rugged terrain of Orinda but never set my running feet on it. So I ran and was overwhelmed by the precipitous hills. Each short hill just unfolded its steepness at each turn and every turn. I almost gave up. Although I was breathing in a lot, my body just couldn't absorb enough oxygen to keep up the demand of the uphill run.

But when your body gets tired, your spirit takes over. This is when I prayed harder and thought about the people who needed prayers. I thought about my brother who was admitted to the hospital for depression. I thought about my uncle who just passed away after struggling with lymphoma. I thought about his bereaved family. I thought about my friends who asked for prayers - for Lisa and Larissa who are training hard to complete their half-marathons and for Jay who needs the grace of health and stability at this time. I also thought and prayed for my son who is training hard to be a good basketball player for his high school team.

Before I knew it, I overcame the hills. But boy, was I breathing heavily. Thank you to the downhills at this time, they were helping me recover and "repay" my oxygen debt. But  most of all thank you, God for the strength to carry on.

Santa Maria Parish in Orinda, CA at Mile 6.2

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Thank You For Running*

I did not do any Turkey Trot but I ran 12 miles today on Thanksgiving Day...in thanksgiving for my ability to run.* (So the * means something I'm thankful for.)

I didn't run for high school sports but my older brother* did. He inspired me somewhat, so I tried running but mainly for leisure. Two running experiences in the distant past are memorable - one I ran home for about 6 miles because I didn't have a ride. The other time I ran to school for 10 miles just because.

What started me running for good was 7 years ago when I needed to relieve myself from stress at work.* Before I knew it, I was ready for my first 5k. I got my wife* and son* to run, too. We ran races together as a family.* I ran 5k's and 10k's at least once a month for 8 months then I decided I was ready for my first half marathon. Five months later, I ran my first full marathon in Big Sur, CA.

Ten days from today, I will be running my 25th marathon in Sacramento, CA.

Running is a huge part of my life now. I look at my ability to run as a big blessing. I always pray that I remain healthy so I can keep running as long as I can. Recognizing it as a gift, I always remember to offer my running time in thanksgiving. In gratitude, I also do my running as a time to pray and remember other people who need prayers. Truly, I humbly take your petitions to heart and to God in prayer.

Happy Thanksgiving to All!

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Let Go - A Thanksgiving Run

Let go...

Anybody who have raised a teenager knows what it means. Anybody who have lost a loved one knows what it means. Anybody who have felt defeated and frustrated knows what it means.

Letting go is accepting that a lot may happen over which you have no control. But an important quality that should go along with the capacity to let go is the belief that everything is going to be fine in God's time.  To happily let go, we need faith.

Let go and let God.

Running has taught me the exhilarating feeling of letting go, while offering my run to God in prayer provides me that feeling of peace and meaning at the end of the run. Many times I get caught up with my training goals that I forget how intuitive and fun running can be. Or that I think too much about my busy day that I forget to be thankful for the time and my ability to run.

This thanksgiving, do a "Let go and let God" run. Start out by putting aside your training log. Then as you begin to gear up for your run, say a prayer offering your run to God. From lacing your shoe to putting on your hat, thank God for everything. Then as you take off, say with a smile, "May my run be pleasing to You, O God." As you are running, repeat and ponder on the words "Let go and let God." Wave or say hello (a silent blessing) to all you meet. Appreciate the beautiful path that leads you out and back home. Then at the end, as you cool down, say a prayer of gratitude for everything God has blessed you this year. Good luck!

Happy Thanksgiving!.. and God speed!

Monday, November 21, 2011

A Gentle Nudge

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.

Saturday, November 12, 2011

I Ran Into 4 Saints

I covered 21 miles during my pilgrimage run today. (Related story on http://www.prayingrunner.com/2011/10/pilgrimage.html). I mapped my route to visit 3 churches named after saints; but along the way, I ran into a 4th saint.

My first stop was St. Joan of Arc in San Ramon, CA. St. Joan of Arc was a maiden military leader who followed heaven-sent voices and visions to lead her country to victory. She believed the voices to be God's directions. The only way she could have discerned this revelation was through her piety and prayer. Condemned as a heretic for her visions, St. Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.

Then I visited St. Raymond Parish in Dublin, CA. St. Raymond of Penafort lived up to 100 years old. A doctor of the church, he wrote and compiled numerous church decrees. His most notable work was a collection of cases for confessors and moralists. As an adviser to the King James of Aragon who engaged in an illicit affair, St. Raymond deserted him by using his staff and cloak to sail across the sea. He devoted the final years of his life spreading the Gospel to the Jews and to the Moors.

The third stop was St. Isidore's in Danville. St. Isidore was a farmer who went to visit a church before he plows the field every day. He maintained a spirit of prayer as he went about his work in the farm.  A very devout worker and husband, he is said to have visions which helped him in his work in the field.

Finally, the fourth saint. Well, not quite a saint by the church standards. But definitely, living up to example of a saint. His name is Mark who was chugging at an awesome pace (I can tell) when he slowed down from nowhere to talk to me. A father of three, a husband to his wife who has hardness of hearing. Once a heavy smoker and alcoholic, he reformed his life and is now lives the Gospel. He hosts Bible study in his home every week. And by the way, he is a sub-3 marathoner!

St. Joan of Arc Church in San Ramon, CA at Mile 4.8

St. Raymond Parish in Dublin, CA at Mile 10.8

St. Isidore's Church in Danville, CA at Mile 20.6

Friday, November 11, 2011

49 Miles In Memory of 49 Loved Ones

This is the fourth and fifth part of my All Souls Day Run, remembering and praying for our dearly departed.  I received 45 names to pray for. Including 4 of my own. I am running 49 miles in memory of 49 loved ones.  (More on http://www.prayingrunner.com/2011/10/my-all-souls-day-run-remembering-and.html).

By November 2nd, commemorating All Souls Day in the Christian world, I have run 49 miles the last 5 days. (See previous posts.)

For our beloved ones, life has changed, not ended. They are preparing the way for us when our day comes to be reunited with them in eternal life with God. Thus, we can still celebrate our relationship with them as we live our earthly lives.

They are praying for us as much as we pray for them.  And I like to believe that they all helped me finish running 49 miles safely.

Truly, it was my privilege and honor to run in remembrance of your loved ones.

Monday, October 31, 2011

Source of Strength

This is the third part of my All Souls Day Run, remembering and praying for our dearly departed. I received 43 names to pray for. Including 4 of my own, I am running 47 miles in honor and in memory of 47 loved ones.  (More on http://www.prayingrunner.com/2011/10/my-all-souls-day-run-remembering-and.html).

As of this writing, with sadness, I am adding a name of dear friend of my wife and I - Frank B., who I just learned of his recent passing from esophageal cancer.  He was a very kind and gentle friend of ours from Marriage Encounter.  He is survived by his wife, Edith, and two older boys.  Frank, I like to think that my wife was there to welcome you up in heaven.

As Christians, it is our belief that our loved ones who have gone before us are preparing us for our own time as well. This means that we are still in communion with our dearly departed. We pray for them as they can pray for us. As I ran today, I prayed and asked for their intercession to help me continue running. Amazingly, I actually felt regaining a second wind in spite of the tiredness and pain I've been feeling the more I run. I have run 37 miles out of 48 miles I pledged to run in time for All Souls Day. 

Other than the 5 that I know, 43 of the names I've been praying for I don't know personally.  But having prayed for them the last 3 days, I feel connected to them and strongly feel that they are also watching over me, like they watch over their own loved ones. In life, even unto death, they are our source of strength.

Send Off

This is the second part of my All Souls Day Run, remembering and praying for our dearly departed. I received 43 names to pray for. Including 4 of my own, I am running 47 miles in honor and in memory of 47 loved ones.  (More on http://www.prayingrunner.com/2011/10/my-all-souls-day-run-remembering-and.html).

Change of plans. At the last minute, I had to drive to Oakland, CA to take my son and his friends to a dance practice. So before I left home, I quickly mapped a route to run in Oakland while I wait for them to finish. I charted 2 churches in 5.6 miles.

When I arrived at my son's venue, one of the dads present there (also a runner) helped me out with directions in my route. Another dad warned me of the ongoing "Occupy Oakland" protests, and another dad bid me a safe run. Two moms gave me a hug before I took off. It was a nice send off by people who cared. I heart-fully appreciated it a lot. I ran alone but I didn't feel lonely. I knew that I was in people's thoughts when I left.

I took all 47 names with me today, this time, written in my notebook of prayer requests. I read all the names as I ran (during traffic stops while waiting for the green light) and when I stopped at the two churches:  Sacred Heart Church and St. Leo the Great Church. I also read a prayer for the deceased for each of the names.

Sacred Heart Church in Oakland, CA at Mile 2.2

Church of St. Leo the Great in Oakland, CA at Mile 3.2

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Living Water

This is the first part of my All Souls Day Run, remembering and praying for our dearly departed. I received 43 names to pray for. Including 4 of my own, I am running 47 miles in honor and in memory of 47 loved ones.  (More on http://www.prayingrunner.com/2011/10/my-all-souls-day-run-remembering-and.html).

Yesterday I covered 21 miles. I also had a chance to visit 3 beautiful churches in Walnut Creek, CA. I wrote down their names on a post-it note which I carried in my hand the whole run. I read each name as I run and said a prayer for the deceased. I repeated this quite a few times the whole time. Approaching the end of my run, I prayed the rosary.

A touching encounter happened to me when I arrived at St. Anne's Church at Mile 15.6. The route I ran to St. Anne's was hilly and I was starting to get tired at this point. Worse, I was getting thirstier; I forgot to bring my hydration to this run so I was always on the lookout for a water stop.  However, since I ran on a trail, sometimes, there's no water stop for miles. Anyway, when I arrived at St. Anne's, I forgot all about my thirst and fatigue when I saw the beautiful church. I went around the grounds to look when a man came to greet me.  He happened to be the pastor and read my "Praying Runner" shirt. He thanked me for what I was doing, and sensing that I came from afar, offered me water. I also asked for his blessing when he gave me 2 water bottles and I went on my way.

Living Water. John 4: 13-14  Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life."

St. Stephen's Church in Walnut Creek, CA at Mile 7.6

St. Anne's Church in Walnut Creek, CA at Mile 15.6

St. Mary's Church in Walnut Creek, CA at Mile 20.6

Thursday, October 27, 2011

My All Souls Day Run: Remembering and Praying for Those Who Have "Finished the Race"

"I have competed well; I have finished the race. I kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7) St. Paul wrote these words at the close of his life as a testimony to the accomplishment of his mission in life. It is also a fitting tribute to our loved ones who have done their work here on earth and have gone before us.

A pink rose for my wife at her funeral.
I love you so much.
On November 2nd, All Souls Day, we remember those who are no longer with us. To honor the memories of  our dearly departed, I am praying and running one mile for each name of your loved one you send to me. Please list for me their names (or initials) and your relation to them (family or friend) and send them to me by posting it here in the comments box, on http://www.facebook.com/prayingrunner, or via email to prayingrunner@gmail.com

No list is too short or too long; I shall run and pray for them all. I shall keep the memories of your loved ones sacred in my heart as I run and pray for them starting on October 29th up to November 2nd.

May I request that if you are so inspired, to share or repost this on your page to your family or friends so I can pray for them as well. Thank you and God bless!

My All Souls Day Run: Remembering and Praying for Those who have "Finished the Race"

"I have competed well; I have finished the race. I kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7)  St. Paul wrote these words at the close of his life as a testimony to the accomplishment of his mission in life. It is also a fitting tribute to our loved ones who have done their work here on earth and has gone before us.

On November 2nd, All Souls Day, we remember those who are no longer with us. To honor the memories of  our dearly departed, I am praying and running one mile for each name of your loved one you send to me. Please list for me their names (or initials) and your relation to them (family or friend) and send them to me by posting it here, on http://www.facebook.com/prayingrunner or via email to prayingrunner@gmail.com

No list is too short or too long; I shall run and pray for them all. Your loved ones will remain in your heart forever and I shall keep that sacred memory in my heart as I run and pray for them starting on October 29th up to November 2nd.

May I request that if you are so inspired to share or repost this on your page.  Thank you.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Praying for Marriages

During my pilgrimage run last Saturday, I saw six different couples either walking or running. I ran 11 miles mostly on paved trail. So that’s about one couple for every 2 miles. That's not a lot, but that was enough to communicate to me a clear message. Finding the time to run or walk together can help in your relationship. There was one study I read that the couples who run together communicate the best and are the happiest than those couples where only one of them runs. One can argue that running is a solitary activity; so it wouldn’t work effectively for couples. But this is totally untrue. Running together is really a good time to support each other and share some precious time with one another.

The other night I went to a dinner dance that my wife and I attended for several years in a row. This year I courageously attended the event by myself for the first time. A big group of our married couple friends came in force to support me. Of course I was very sad, hurting, and crying inside the whole time. I tried to hide my true feelings because I didn’t want to spoil the night for my friends. The whole time while listening to the music and watching other couples dance, I reminisced the fun times that we had last year at the dance. How my wife loved to dance; and she danced even if she felt weak. I went on longing for her the whole evening until the band finished playing their last number. I was sitting alone at a table, when the bright lights were turned on, and there appeared in front of me a sea of beautiful couples dancing, embracing, holding hands, looking at each other lovingly, and celebrating the moment. At that instant, I felt the urge to pray for couples, especially for marriages. “Dear God, bless these couples and their marriages. May they find joy and love in their relationship, and most of all, strive to keep God always in their marriage.” My sadness actually disappeared after I prayed. I realized I wasn’t alone in the midst of all these couples, but my wife was with me in spirit. Death may have separated us, but our love for each other remains forever.

My wife always prayed for good marriages, including ours. It was just fitting that when I made my pilgrimage run today to see those six couples. It was really heartwarming to see them walk or run together. As soon as I saw the first couple, I dedicated my run in prayer for all marriages and to ask for the grace to make them instruments of God’s love to the world.

Finally I also prayed for special prayer requests.  For Lisa A.'s son and his relocation decision making, and for her personal intentions.  For Larissa O.'s running group's successful training and also for her personal intentions.  I brought your prayer requests with me as I ran and pray all the way to the two churches I visited to pray as well.


Christ the King Church in Plesant Hill, CA at Mile 5.2

Queen of All Saints Church in Concord, CA at Mile 10.8

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

To Be With Her

Last Sunday, I ran to be with her.

Today, I pray to God to help me to carry on. In as much as I feel fulfilled to keep her memory alive as I run, I must also keep on going for the sake of all the people for whom I shall pray during my runs. To my readers, I humbly ask for your prayers for me - for strength to move forward.

I also ask to continue sending me your prayer requests or to share my ministry to others.  My hope is to bring hope to people who need prayers. And also if you are so inspired, join me if so possible, or in spirit, to run and pray with me for the prayer requests received.

Here's the Tiffany necklace from the Nike Women's Marathon 2011.
It is for you with all my love!

Saturday, October 15, 2011

I Run To Be...

That's the Nike Women's Marathon 2011 slogan. When you sign up, you fill in the blank. "I run to be...".

I run to be healed. This Sunday in San Francisco, CA, I am running the NWM 26.2 in honor and in memory of my wife who passed away 7 months ago after a long battle with breast cancer.  Her story on http://www.prayingrunner.com/2011/03/she-has-crossed-finish-line.html. This will be the third race I am running since her death. For as long as I can, I will run all my races in her memory.

I run to be nostalgic. This is a very meaningful race for me since this is one of the races my wife wanted to run. Unfortunately, when her cancer came back, she progressively became weaker. She had to stay in bed most of the time while I kept on running.  One day she was looking for me when I came back from a run. I told her that I went out to run and prayed for her.  She told me to keep on running and pray for other people as well.  This started the "Praying Runner." She will always be my inspiration of my ministry to run and pray for other people.

I run to be in the moment.  "What does it profit man if he gains the whole world but loses his soul?" (Mark 8:36). Since my wife died, I am devoting my life to the three of the most important priorities in my life - my faith, my family, and my friends. Just like the way my wife lived her life, she never let a moment slip away without praying and showing how much she loved us. My 15-year old son shared to me his favorite quotation - "Yesterday's history, tomorrow's a mystery. Today? Today is a gift. That's why we call it the present." From Philippians 4:6,  "Don't worry about anything, instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done."

Running has kept me moving forward since my wife's death. Running lets me discover God's presence in my life. Running is my moment. And I share this moment with all runners, with my wife, family, and friends. This run is also for to all the people who request for prayers. You are in my heart and be rest assured of my prayers. I will keep running and praying for you.


Running NWM 26.2 holding a pink carnation in honor and in memory of my wife

Monday, October 10, 2011

Pilgrimage

My aunt suggested to bring my wife, who was on intensive cancer treatments then, to do a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. I would have loved to but I just couldn't afford it.  Knowing the healing miracle that could happen if we visit the Holy Land, I prayed to God at that time to give us the blessing of a pilgrimage, if He so willed it.

Well, I was never able to take her to do a pilgrimage. I felt disappointed at myself that I couldn't bring her to the Holy Land; but I promised that I would take her to visit as many as we can, churches she hasn't been to and pray together. So while she was healthy enough, I took her somewhere close, to the magnificent Cathedral of Christ the Light in Oakland, CA. This was the first church I took her, it would also be her last.

Today I ran 4.6 miles and visited the Cathedral. I tearfully reminisced the time we were here. I prayed and stayed here longer than usual, then I headed out to continue my run.

She is no longer with me physically, but I always think about her in all my prayer runs and to all the churches  I visit in my runs. After all this time, I am now able to take her on a pilgrimage.

Our Lady of Lourdes in Oakland, CA at Mile 2.6

Cathedral of Christ the Light in Oakland, CA at Mile 3.6

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Runs End, Running Doesn't

So it's been a week since my last marathon.  And I'm back into running.   But it's easier said that done. The weather's getting colder and the nights are getting longer. Sometimes I just like to get it over with - just like crossing the finish line of a run and I'm all done.

I almost did not run today.  I almost did not run the last 2 runs before today. I just have a 101 valid excuses not to run tomorrow.

But while I can, I also have 101 much better reasons to go on running. Today I ran to pray for special intentions - said and unsaid.  To name a few, for a husband and father who is suffering from diabetes, for a friend's niece who is terminally  ill, for a friend who had two unfortunate car accidents in a day, for Joy who passed away yesterday from cancer and for surviving daughter, Shirlyn; for a breast cancer survivor from Ohio who fought and won over cancer two times, for Beth M's family and friends living with cancer, for Casey who had another surgery to remove cancer wrapped around her spine, for Darren, a mother of 2 girls, who is sick, and for Lisa's special intentions. These are my reasons to keep on running.

My wife wrote a love letter to me in 2001 after she completed her treatments from her initial breast cancer Stage 2 diagnosis, "Sometimes, it's just so easy to give up because cancer is so painful. But I always think of my reason to keep on living - you, my Love and our son, Tim. You are the reason for my existence and I want to continue living with you and Tim knowing how much I love you." She lived for another 10 years; she died of metastatic Stage 4 breast cancer in March 2011.

Runs end, running doesn't. Life must go on for me and I have 101 reason to keep on living.

Please send me your prayer requests or of your family and friends. Be rest assured of my prayers. Today I ran 14 miles, praying along the way, and visited 2 churches to pray as well.

Our Lady Queen of the World Church in Bay Point, CA  at Mile 4.2

St. Peter Martyr Church in Pittsburg, CA at Mile 9.7

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Healing Run

...and praying for strength for myself. Fall has begun and the weather is changing. Days are colder and nights are longer. I can feel the sorrow creeping in me.  I've been missing and longing for my wife more - and crying more lately. I usually looked forward to the holidays coming up; I still do, but now with trepidation. How will I "celebrate"?

So in this run I prayed for the blessing of strength. I went on an 11-mile course and stopping by 8 churches in San Francisco. It was a beautiful run. I experienced an overwhelming sense of peace and grace. Seeing the church tower as I approached, entering the quiet and magnificent nave, and looking up at the altar of all the churches I visited struck me with such awe and inspiration to give praise and thanks to God. Then humbly I kneel and say a prayer to all the people who have requested for prayers. I spent a few more quiet moments to pray for my wife. Before she died, I wanted to bring her to all the churches she wanted to visit. I was too late; but here I am now, my beloved wife, visiting as many churches as I can during my runs.

Below are pictures of the churches I visited.  One picture is not of a church, but of a hospital - it was the UCSF Cancer Center where I took her to see one of the best oncologist in the country, for a second opinion, with sad results. It would be her last complete evaluation - she passed away 5 weeks later. I stopped by the entry way of the hospital and just broke down in tears. I know I needed to cry my pain.

I miss you, my Love.  Thank you, Lord, for the healing run.

Saints Peter and Paul at Mile 2.1

St Francis Xavier at Mile 2.4

St. Mary's Cathedral at Mile 3.07

Notre Dame Des Victoires at Mile 2.7

St. Patrick's at Mile 3.7

St. Boniface at Mile 4.7

St. Joseph Roman at Mile 6.2

UCSF Cancer Center at Mile 7.8

St. Dominic's at Mile 8.0

St. Mary of the Assumption at Mile 8.7

Monday, September 26, 2011

Angels on Foot

"26.2 Miles of Running Heaven," pitches the Half Moon Bay International Marathon. Indeed the course boasts of a spectacular coastline view for much of the race. But I think the race is made much more heavenly by the supportive fleet of volunteers, staff, organizers, and enthusiastic race participants. I met a lot of angels on foot on this race.

"The runner with the pink rose!"
I've never felt such joy in running a marathon than HMBIM. My fellow runners were greeting me, smiling at me, giving me a thumbs up, running along with me, chatting with me, and even one runner, Sarah, crying with me. The spirit of caring was overwhelming. The beautiful people in every aid station cheered gloriously for me. They nourished me not only with water and sports drink but also with words of hope and encouragement. Knowing that I might not see the smile of these people again, I stopped by every aid station to share my story of what the pink rose is for and to show appreciation for their volunteering. I also stopped at around Mile 19 to enjoy the music of a trio and dance along. What is there to hurry when you hear beautiful music? I also promised to pray for the guitarist's mother who, I learned from him, has brain cancer. The spectators on the road also showed their good spirits, like one little boy shouted, "Here comes the runner with the pink rose!" Finally, the joy of victory at the finish line. I finished far from first place, but I definitely felt like a winner. With no less than the race director greeting me personally at the finish line, people clapping and cheering, and surrounded by the family and the high school friends of my wife who passed away from breast cancer six months ago.

I came to run this marathon to escape my grief after my wife's death; but instead, I experienced heaven and met angels on foot.

To my dearest wife, Jinky, I love you so much! I miss you terribly and how I wish you were still here to hear all about my race at Half Moon Bay. But today the pain was eased by the joy that I felt from the support of caring people I just met and from the love of your high school friends who was inspired to honor you and to do this run for you.

A pink rose for my wife
Joyfully approaching the finish line


My wife's family and friends, some of the angels on foot, in this heavenly run.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Friends For Life

Sometime last year, I kidded my wife, "You better get better, your friends from high school might get tired of visiting you." They come from all over the United States to spend time with her every time they hear news of her being hospitalized. They bring her favorite food, play her favorite music, do endless picture taking, and of course all night long reminiscing about their high school days in an all girls Catholic school many years ago.

In March this year, they all faithfully came again one Saturday, the 12th, to spend time with their friend. They were all in high spirits including my wife who tried to enjoy their presence. One of her friends described the day as truly heartwarming, but also heartbreaking. Not for long, my wife had to retreat to her bedroom and very somberly said, "I am getting tired now. I'm sorry I can't entertain you anymore." Six days later, she passed away. Her friends faithfully came again a few days later to bury her.

But so you think that would be the end of it. Not so fast. On Sunday, Sept. 25th, they are again coming together to celebrate her life. They will do a "Run For Jinky" at the Half Moon Bay International Marathon in California in honor and in memory of their beloved friend.

I will also be there to run along with them. I will be carrying with me a pink rose for the entire 26.2 miles...to remember my wife and all the people whose lives she has touched, especially her friends....for life even unto death.

Jinky with her high school friends, March 12, 2011.
She passed six days later.



Run for Jinky, In honor, in memory, and in prayer.
Half Moon Bay International Marathon, CA. September 25, 2011

Saturday, September 17, 2011

God's Protection

During a rather uneventful out and back run to a small town of approximately 1,500 people, I experienced God's protection. Byron, CA is a farm town southeast of booming Brentwood City. However, it has an old Catholic church established in the 1880's, St. Anne's. St. Anne's is memorable to me because my wife and I got lost for an hour looking for this church. When she was still alive, we went around visiting different parishes doing pulpit talks to invite married couples to attend a Marriage Encounter Weekend.

So today I planned to cover 14.4 miles in all.  Going 7.2 to St. Anne's church and 7.2 back to where I parked my car. I mapped my route carefully to make sure I don't lose my way and to see what road and neighborhood conditions to expect. The last time I drove to Byron was about 7 years ago so the way to St. Anne's is totally unfamiliar.

I headed out running at around seven in the morning. I appreciated the cool gentle headwind. Moreover, I enjoyed traversing the pancake flat asphalt roads. The run to St. Anne's was easy as pie.  I would even say it was a boring run except for the noise of the passing cars, trucks, and trailers and the sight of the busy farm workers. So it was rather uneventful until around Mile 10 on my way back. I was praying the rosary and I was at the 4th Glorious mystery when I passed a gated house. I could already hear barking sounds as I got closer to the house, when I saw a big dog dashing across the front yard. I wasn't worried since I saw the cyclone wire fencing the perimeter of the house. The dog kept running towards me and then it slipped through a small opening and out the street towards me. The next moment the dog was right in front of me! Without hesitation, I jumped off the sidewalk and ran across the road and in front of a passing car. I barely got hit by the car!

I kept running for a few moments then I looked back. The dog was nowhere to be seen and the car simply sped off.  Trying to recall what just had happened, I realized that the dog actually stopped on its tracks about 5 feet just before it could've attacked me and the car screeched to a stop about 5 yards just before it could've hit me. For some reason, I actually felt safe and protected. And I think I know why...I was praying the rosary at that time. I honestly believe God sent his angels to save me today.

I went on my way to finish my run and continued to pray the rosary. I am blessed today to have receive God's special protection.

St. Anne's Catholic Church, Byron, CA at Mile 7.2

God's Protection

During a rather uneventful out and back run around a small town of approximately 1,500 people, I experienced God's protection. Byron, CA is a farm town southeast of booming Brentwood City. However, it has an old Catholic church established in the 1880's, St. Anne's. St. Anne's is memorable to me because my wife and I got lost for an hour looking for this church. When she was healthier, we went around visiting different parishes doing pulpit talks to invite married couples to attend a Marriage Encounter Weekend.

So today I planned to cover 14.4 miles in all.  Going 7.2 to St. Anne's church and 7.2 back to where I parked my car. I mapped my route carefully to make sure I don't lose my way and to see what road and neighborhood conditions to expect. The last time I drove to Byron was about 7 years ago so the way to St. Anne's would be totally unfamiliar.

I headed out at 7 in the morning. I appreciated the cool gentle headwind. Moreover, I enjoyed traversing the pancake flat asphalt roads. The run to St. Anne's was easy as pie.  I would even say it was boring run except for the noise of the passing cars, trucks, and trailers and the sight of the busy farm workers. So it was rather uneventful until around Mile 10 on my way back. I was praying the rosary and I was at the 4th Glorious mystery when I passed a gated house. I could already hear barking sounds as I got closer to the house, when I saw the dog dashing across the front yard. I wasn't worried since I saw the chicken wire fencing the perimeter of the house. The dog kept running towards me and then it slipped through a small opening and out the street towards me. The next moment the dog was right in front of me! Without hesitation, I jumped off the sidewalk and ran across the road and in front of a passing car. I barely got hit by the car!

I kept running for a few moments then I looked back. The dog was nowhere to be seen and the car simply sped off.  Trying to recall what just had happened, at the last moment, I realized that the dog actually stopped on its tracks about 5 feet just before it could've attacked me and the car screeched to a stop about 5 yards just before it could've hit me. For some reason, I actually felt safe and protected. And I think I know why...I was praying the rosary. I honestly believe God sent his angels to save me today.

I went on my way to finish my run and continued to pray the rosary. I am blessed today to have receive God's special protection.

St. Anne's Catholic Church, Byron, CA at Mile 7.2

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Finding God

Today was another long day for me. It's been pretty stressful at work lately. And going home to rest in an empty bed at night doesn't help. I've been longing for my wife's comforting presence especially during these times.

When I went out for a run after work today, I felt the need to find God. As I headed west to a trail running towards the setting sun, I murmured to myself, "God, where are you?" I repeated the question in a rhythm with my slow start up pace. As I went on and picked up the pace, I felt myself wanting to raise my hands in arms and scream, "God, where are you?!"

Just as I was about to do that, I closed my eyes very briefly and took a big, deep breath; then exhaled. I did it again; then again, until I was starting to pay attention to my breathing. I stopped my ranting and found myself calming down and getting into a more comfortable running pace. As I focused on my breathing in and out, in and out, in and out -- two words came to my mind.  "Make room."  I repeated the words as I ran -- one word for every breath in and air out. "Make room."

Then from the quiet trail I was on I came out on a busy street on my way back. But those words lingered on as I  ran along the hustle and bustle of that road..."Make room." Finally I made my way to my neighborhood and it became quiet again.

I was finding God in my run today. But ironically, He found me. The truth is that He's always by me; but He wants me to make room for Him, most especially when life gets busy and hectic. Make room. God is always waiting for us to let Him in.

Sunday, September 11, 2011

9.11 Miles

9.11 Miles on 9/11.

It has made me think the end purpose of my running. I watched the ceremonies at Ground Zero on TV while running on the treadmill. All the speeches and scenes, especially of the victims, were a picture of love, faith, and hope. These were the answers to the incomprehensibility of the events on 9/11. Why?

I asked myself  a similar question as I ran. What is my running for when the world seemed to have stopped since 9/11. I was about to leave it unanswered until I learned on TV that a few of the firefighters who climbed back up the Towers to save more people were runners, marathoners, athletes. Their running was not in vain.  All the miles they ran helped them to use their stamina, speed, and ability to think on the run when they were needed the most - to save lives.

I'm not a first responder, but as a runner, I can also save lives. The ultimate end of my running is to bring people back to God. That by my praying and running can also allow people to see that there is still love, faith, and hope in the world in spite of the tragedies that befall our lives.

To Kevin and Durell, who lost their lives on 9/11, special prayer intentions from John D, and to all victims and heroes, I honored and remembered you in my prayer run today.

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Worth Running For

Today's run was tough. I think I got a little conservative with my hydration and it was warm - in the high 80's halfway through. Towards the end, I got queasy and crampy. I struggled to complete the 18.5 miles but I did. I was dead tired when I got to my destination. There was one thing that got me though - it was praying the rosary and thinking about all the prayer intentions that were requested.

"Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit." (John 12:24). I shared this verse to my nephew-in-law who was devastated when he found out that my wife had only a few days to live. He saw action in Iraq but couldn't accept that his aunt was dying. Trying to to look for strength and answers myself, I was inspired to share this verse to him.

Like my wife who realized that her suffering was all worth it, I kept running and praying hard to complete the course. Praying for all your intentions and dying to self was all worth it. May this run be pleasing to God. And may He look upon all our prayers with His infinite mercy and compassion. Amen.

St. John Vianney Catholic Church, Walnut Creek, CA at Mile 5.4

St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Concord, CA at Mile 10.1

St. Agnes Catholic Church, Concord, CA at Mile 14.2