WOW!!

I've learned that finishing a [half or full] marathon isn't just an athletic achievement. It's a state of mind; a state of mind that says anything is possible.

- John Hanc, running writer

WOW!
I'm not sure I could have wished for a more perfect day yesterday. Standing there with 7,000+ runners with that bright, clear early morning sun pouring over all of us. For a few minutes we were all all together - bouncing up and down to keep warm, laughing nervously, cheering randomly, smiling constantly - focused, excited, blessed - together.

Then we were running - laughing - waving at the cameras - listening to the crowds cheer us on. Feeling amazing. Only 30 seconds in. Only two minutes in. Four miles down, nine to go. Watching the brilliantly colored crowd spread ahead of us (and behind) in an endless, rhythmic  stream. And on and on we went.

So many runners running for others - those who couldn't run, those who were no longer with us, those too sick or too tiny - in memory of, in honor of, in place of. So many running beyond themselves. It is a gift from God that we can run. It is a gift to God when we run for a greater cause.

For a couple of hours we ran, together and "alone." And then suddenly I was heading down 20th street - the last leg - playing a ridiculous alphabet game with Felicia to keep my mind occupied. Then that last block of 20th before the turn - I couldn't even think of a word for the letter "U" let alone what order the letters came in. I just got quiet and willed my legs to run faster, to feel my lungs hurt, to know the end was just around the corner. Then I saw Susie Youngson, smiling, yelling, laughing and then it was over and I think my smile was bigger than my face. An amazing race. A perfect day.

I'm so proud you guys out there yesterday and I hope our runners who couldn't be with us due to sickness are all feeling much better.

Thank you Sole Saints! Can't wait until next year... anyone up for the full?

peace and love,
Hilary