you people never eases to amaze me

yes! YOU!

Just when I think that I've seen and felt it all, that I have officially "gotten" it, something else happens to remind me of the incredible power of the human spirit. Most recently, it seems to "wow" me when it's linked to running/other such activities (of course, this doesn't exclude all the other acts of kindness, good heart, and passion), as I realize how time consuming training is and how simply ONGOING it is. Committing to run a marathon for the good of others isn't just about writing some letters or planning a fundraising night. It's about waking up early on Saturdays, about prioritizing in a way that oftentimes doesn't come natural, in making choices that every part of you, excluding your heart/especially your soles, tells you not to. Some people are naturally inclined to do these things..the rest of us can only do so with a purpose behind us, and even then, it's not a simple task.

Just when I felt myself hitting a plateau with my feelings towards running (not particularly good timing with a 13 miles approaching this weekend!), I received a pleasantly surprising email from a friend from college who will be running the NYC MARATHON this year for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society with Team in Training! WOW WOW WOW! While I DID run appropriately 2% of last year's big event (although the picture link failed me, it's true! I was there!), I am completely FLOORED with the selflessness it takes to commit oneself to not only 26.2 miles for others, but, (and to me, more importantly) all that leads up to it! I am so beyond thrilled that I went to witness the sheer magnitude of the marathon this past November, because an event of that magnitude naturally means that many more incredible acts of love and dedication. The number of runners I saw who were doing it for causes they felt strongly about...it was amazing!

I am so lucky to have such amazing examples all around me of what it means to give, to love, and to live with a purpose. I saw it x 15 during Hope Express with a group of former strangers and I am so proud of how many of the people in my life choose to give so much of themselves on a regular basis. It is only by these examples that I can even dream of making a difference in this world.

With this wonderfully exciting news (along with my being inspired by dear friend (let's be real...we've crossed the border of friend-of-a-friend...right??) Dave Romanelli who is running for TNT this weekend as well...and will be done with his half marathon before I cross the half of a half mark...really...he's that amazing!), I feel REFRESHED and while this weekend's race isn't for anyone other than me (and even that is a push...kidding! think happy thoughts!), it renews my spirit and reminds me of the POWER that comes with running. I feels so wonderful!

Want to know how you can help? Support Deanne and her journey to run 26.2 miles, 26.2 miles closer to a cure!!