It's a Saturday night in Chicago and I'm in bed with a bag of ice on my leg. I am thinking I will not be able to participate in the marathon because of a growing pain in my leg. Needless to say, I am totally bummed out.
On Sunday morning, the day of the marathon, I feel as if I am pretending that I am going to walk in a marathon. As my husband and I wait in a crowd of people for our turn to take off, I continue to have doubts that my leg will allow me to get very far.
Then, something happens in my mind that I cannot explain. We cross the start line and I know I have to go for it. I tell my leg to cooperate as I shove the pain away and focus on being present in the moment. I wish my husband luck as I start my pace and off I go.
Strangers enthusiastically send me cheers, encouragement, smiles and joy along the whole route. Friendly faces along the way offer me Gatorade and water that I gratefully accept. I spot a few teammates and we exchange encouraging words. Every dose of good energy from others keeps me going.
I want to finish! I mean I really want to finish. I'm going to finish! This is what I think about. I do not allow myself to dwell on the pain in my legs, back or feet. I'm going to finish. Again and again, I hear mySelf tell mySelf "I am going to finish!"
I turn that last corner and cast my eyes upon a big green and white banner that says Finish Line. At that moment, I am sure that banner is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen in my life. It's really happening! I see the finish line. Thank you God! It's almost over. I'm almost there. I step on the finish line and go into temporary shock. I did it! I really, really did it! Despite the obstacles and doubt, I made it to the finish line.
My time is 6:57:33. Seven hours of heavy duty walking for the sake of reaching a goal I set for myself in January. What is the reward? A stronger knowing that I can do anything I set my mind to, new friends, an adventurous experience and many warm memories.
Here is what I know. I would not have been able to have walked 26.2 miles in 6 hours, fifty seven minutes and thirty three seconds without help. I am filled with gratitude for my husband, family, friends, teammates, Mark and Robin Simpson of Marathon Makeover and all of the spectators and volunteers that made my completion of the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon possible.
Yes, I can do anything I set my mind to and also, I am strengthened by God and those around me. Having loads of support is what made this victory possible. Not only am I reminded of the power of the mind, I am also reminded that seeking help and support from others brings empowerment and greater success.
Some say asking for help is a sign of weakness. Don't buy it. Asking for and accepting help will take you further than you ever dreamed you could go. I've seen this demonstrated in my life over and over.
A victory shared with others is much sweeter than a victory that is experienced alone.
Onward!
Beverly
Greg and Beverly - marathoners!





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