Validation

"If you want to reach a goal, you must 'see the reaching' in your own mind before you actually arrive at your goal."
-- Zig Ziglar

Tired, and a little tougher 8 miler this morning, but in general, strong. I'm placing more 'fartleks' in when the energy seems available, little bursts of speedwork for a block or so, always easier towards the end of the run than the beginning, after I've gotten loose. My legs are feeling more solid; I seem able to find my rhythm and keep the pace comfortably...my goal? To ease into distances for the fall imperceptibly, naturally, without pressure. So far, so good. Starting this weekend, with the month of September coming up in a few weeks, I'll begin lengthening those long runs, with the hope of cruising past half-marathon distances. If I can sustain those long miles, keep a decent pace, I can begin to plan my race schedule and hopefully more than 1 marathon this year.

Last night, the group gave me a token of their appreciation "for all you do for us", and the discussion roamed around themes of gratitude, giving, receiving and finding compassion and trust. I sat with a huge grin on my face as I watched each one find their voice and give story to their struggle. The progress of these folks in finding some center of stability is truly amazing; and to think that I am the catalyst and 'agent of change' validates my 'mission'. Mello would be proud, I think, as I embrace the Path, the Work and the challenge. I am SO VERY GRATEFUL that the universe saw to it to make good use of all my foibles and mis-matched talents. That somehow, a tapestry has come together of my soul's desire, and plan, put to the purpose for which I came. I've never felt so sure of it, and yet, so amazed at the focus it takes to pull it off. Running was the magic ingredient that calmed my mind and gave my body integrity and strength. The endurance is a heart-level phenomenon; it is the courage to put it all out there, every run, every time, and allow myself to follow the road from start to finish, completing the circle.

Meanwhile, the athletes of the world find their own validation for dedicated training and the vision of accomplishments. There are many wonderful and poignant stories coming out of these Olympics; political and personal. But the world watches the individual try and triumph, and cheers each one towards their own glory.