Well, I didn't finish the race in Harrisburgh in November. It was my first non-finish out of 13 marathons. I had developed plantar fascitis four weeks prior to the race, and I had hoped I could manage it and still finish, but at mile 11 it was all over. The pain had become to great.
Just prior to the race a dear friend of mine prayed with me before we left for Harrisburg. She knew I was dealing with plantar fascitis, and she asked God to help me know when I should stop running, if I was experienceing too much pain. While she prayed I thought, "Wait a second, I don't even want to think about not finishing," but sure enough her prayer came to mind when I was struggling with dropping out, and strangely enough, it brought me comfort when I said enough was enough.
So what have I learned as we are wtihin six days of leaving for Kenya. I think what God is trying to teach me is to put aside my expectations, and be flexible. Allow Him to set the agenda, and go with the flow....His flow! I realize that even though I didn't finish the marathon, I still accomplished what God had for me. The training in itself was worth the effort. The discipline and commitment one must exercise strengthen spiritual muscles to enable you to be better not just in running, but in all aspects of your life. The lessons learned will help me in Kenya. They will help me pick up on the lessons God has for me.
Our family is tingling with excitement as we approach our launch on December 29th from JFK at 4:30 p.m. We will arrive on December 30th around 10 p.m., and therefore, spend New Years in Kenya. Amazing. Everyone has been so supportive, encouraging and generous. Thanks. We will be posting pictures, videos and more musings, so check us out.
With Love - Mark
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