Running With A Tiara

                                                                   Once upon a time...

In a far away land

There was a Disney Princess race

And I thought it would be grand

From Knoxville, Tennessee we departed

and traveled to the city of magic and young-hearted

Four girls set off, eager to compete

In a journey of 13.1 miles on their feet

Step by step, Mile by mile

The distance behind us began to compile

Princesses lined the aisle to my right

In passing I stole a hug from Snow White

At exactly 2:27 I finished the course

Beaten, I threatened my running fling would end in divorce

I lifted the plastic tiara from my hair

And paused a moment to glance down and stare

I did it, I did it I fulfilled my goal

Completion and triumph satisfy the soul

Perhaps a tiara should be worn day and night

As a reminder of hidden strength and might

Royalty does not define this position

In the eyes of The King we're all princesses on a mission

So be mindful of the significance you hold

Because you are worth more than silver and gold

This is how I expected my first half marathon experience to end at least. However, in an effort to stay authentic I'm going to be upfront. My running shoes only made it 12.2 miles. Less than one mile from the finish line. I didn't exceed or even meet my goal. I failed.
  Has this ever happened to you?

It's not a wonderful feeling. None of us enjoy falling short of our goal. And golly, I literally fell short. I have bruises if you need proof. 
 Detail is nonexistent and I'm still seeking explanation when it comes to this story.
 On the medical chart inside the Disney Princess medical "castle",
the facts read as follows:
"Dehydrated"
"Unresponsive for 25 minutes"
"Started IV"
"Patient still wearing tiara" 
 While finishing the final stretch...I passed out.
Besides that, the chart and my memory are blank. 

Thanks to a team of park volunteers, an IV, and help from my friends I felt prepared for the flight home. It was a time of quietness and reflection. Why didn't I drink the stupid water offered along the course? Hundreds of volunteers lined the course extending their hands to give the runners full cups of water. I grabbed a couple of cups in passing but because I was so focused on keeping my pace, I rarely paused to refuel.

Often we run through life this same way.

 Life is hectic. Our agendas are swiftly filled by demands and obligations of everyday living. Time seems to become more scarce the older I become and I've found that as a result priorities shift. Scheduling moments to refresh the body and rejuvenate the spirit often begin at the top of my list only to get shuffled to the bottom.  We become so focused on completing tasks of this world that we forget to refuel with the Living Water.
 Without it we will all eventually end up weak, confused, and unable to fulfill our purpose.

But remember, you are a princess! (or prince)
The King treasures us so much that He sent the Prince of Peace to conquered the grave so that you and I can be made new everyday...even on the days that we fall short. In the midst of all the running life may throw your direction, don't forget to seize your tiara. Wear it with your head high, your shoulders back, chest out, and a smile upon your glossy lips. Rejoice in the victories knowing that if we fail our tiaras will stay in place. We are pursued by the King who loves us regardless of success or defeat. For that I am thankful.
 My racing journey is just beginning.
In the mean time this is a reminder to myself to drink up, persevere, and use my energy wisely.
Let's get back to training folks.

"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." - James 1:12

Hebrews 12:1 |  1 Corinthians 9:24  |  2 Timothy 4:7

  -jpr-



The Art of Conversation

Everyone is uniquely designed.

Some folks are shy and reserved while others are fearless and daring. As for me? I find myself in the middle of these extremes. I have always found pleasure in meeting new people, speaking to others, asking questions, and listening to views that are different than my own. Learning about others is exciting and helps me take a mental audit of my own beliefs and way of thinking. 

 Conversation for it's own sake exists for two reasons: To trade ideas and for companionship. Whether you're in a business, religious, school, or home setting the purpose of discussion falls into one of these two categories.

Technology impacts my life dramatically. This comes as no surprise to you. I would be lost without my smart phone. Completely lost.

#firstworldproblems

Laptops and smart phones enable a large chunk of our interaction with others to be done through text messages, emails, social media, or blogs. As a result we express ourselves to others both directly and indirectly depending on the avenue of communication. This blog is a perfect example of the latter. This blog is a place to share my thoughts and ideas; however it only fulfills half of the purpose of conversation. It is important to note the difference between communications vs. conversation. It is possible to communicate without engaging in conversation. Think about it.

 As we continue to develop sleeker technology I fear that gains in virtual communication are putting a damper in the ability of younger generations (like mine) to effectively converse. With the absence of verbal communication, the art of conversation is lost.

Wouldn't that be a shame?

Thinking over my past experiences, conversations have defined all my relationships by building trust and adding depth and intimacy. Whether it's your best friend, student, boyfriend, husband, co-worker, or a complete stranger, initiating conversation is the best way to grow closer in companionship. I think we would all agree that relationships make life worth-while.

 If you don't know where to begin, these simple rules are likely to lead to great conversation:

· Ask questions so the other person can speak about himself or herself

· Comment on a general interest topic

· LISTEN

· Forget yourself

· Be respectful when voicing disagreement

· Share stories and experiences

· Know when the conversation has ended

Now, I plan to turn off my computer for the day. Let’s make time to invest in others. Enjoy the sunshine and become masters in the art of conversation! Ready. Set. Go.

jpr