With seven days before I run my first marathon, I will blog all week about seven reason why I'm running a marathon.
#7 - Because it's scary!
The goal of running a marathon was not a completely crazy one for me. After all, I have run three 10k races and a half marathon in the last two years. Still, the notion of running 26.2 miles was intimidating at first. Especially when I considering where I have been.
As I have often written, not too long ago - just four years ago - I wouldn't run across the street in the rain to avoid oncoming traffic. And now I am going to run a marathon?? Really?? I had always built the marathon up in my mind as the gold standard of physical achievement, the race that only exceptional people could run. That is exactly why I had to run one.
I had to run a marathon BECAUSE it was scary. I was uncomfortable at first and a little hesitant to even say the words out loud. But I knew deep down - way down deep - that I had to conquer this fear. So I did say the words out loud, then started training faithfully. Partially out of fear of "showing my ass" I've rarely missed a workout over the past 6 months. And now I'm ready.
I'm thankful that I did commit to running this race, because I have had the opportunity to hear from so many friends, old and new, in the process. So many of you have become a part of this journey with me. Your encouragement has kept me going every time I was tempted to bail. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
A funny thing happens to you face fear and win. The next scary thing is not nearly as scary. I can't say enough about how empowering it is to face and defeat your fears. Try it!! If you are like me, it will help you slay some of the other monsters in your life!
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