Wednesday, February 27, 2013

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-



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