With a new day...

 

It was another glorious start to the day on Thursday for early morning miles. I am going to miss the days of putting on a singlet, shorts, water belt and heading out the door and having the blessed opportunity of seeing the dawn of a new day! Soon it will be time to have the hats and gloves bag arranged and have our layers of clothing laid out the night before an early morning or afternoon run depending on the temperatures. We will head out for early morning runs for as long as we are able to as the season makes its transition to summer to fall and eventually to winter. I am beyond thrilled and excited to be heading to Bermuda in January for a week long race-vacation. I am imagining perfect weather for the entire time we are there especially on race day. But back to the present. The light was absolutely breath taking on our way to and around the Route 9 Reservoir.

 

There were only a few other runners beating the heat of the day with an early morning run. I set an intention to carry the serenity and peace from the still water of the Reservoir with me throughout the day. Trusting that all is well with Ruth Anne and that the Treatment Team is taking outstanding care of her can be a challenge at times. But when my eyes behold the magnificence of the colors of dawn and the sun rising in the sky, I KNOW that all is well. 

I know how hill training is a critical part of my training for the Bermuda 10K. After a lap around the Reservoir, I did speed work going up the hills on the way home.

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Isn't it absolutely amazing that at almost 70 years old and in the wake of the diagnosis of a progressive neuromuscular disease in December of 2006 that I can continue to build strength? In addition to building physical strength, I am also building mental and spiritual strength as we navigate Ruth Anne's hospitalization and journey back to wellness. While I have always practiced meditation and prayer, it has become a deeper practice during this challenging time. My gratitude and affirmations practice have also deepened. I have traditionally been a giver and love to give to others but during this difficult time, I have learned how to receive love, care, support and prayer from others. I am so deeply grateful for our incredible village!

Every morning after meditation, as I put my feet on the floor, I take a deep breath and give thanks for the gift of a new day overflowing with infinite possibilities. If any insights come through during meditation, I jot them down in the Notes on my phone so I'll remember them. Often times, insights come through during the magical time of an early morning run with new thoughts and new strength to greet the day.

Fridays are my rest days and a more leisurely morning routine. The phrase, "The only thing you need to prepare for is good things happening," came to me. As one who survived childhood trauma and more recently the trauma of what happens when Ruth Anne's body has an infection, I tend to 'brace myself' for what if's and what negative things might happen. But it's time for me to make a shift with new strength and new thoughts. 

I haven't written poetry in quite awhile. It's an old friend that brings such comfort during challenging times

I started writing poetry after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006. I called my pen my divining rod for healing. This poem flowed out of me this morning:

Release

Release all thoughts of worry fear and doubt and dread

pounding pummeling happiness in my heart and head.

Transform all the darkness Source is here to light the way

embarking on infinite possibilities of this glorious brand new day.

Honoring the trauma on my body mind it took a toll

focus only on all wellness the path to being whole.

Peace and equanimity let my aching heart open wide

expanding feeling gratitude knowing the Universe is always on our side.

Courage strength and ease and grace when I turn to loving Source

compassion loving kindness self-love through all my cells now course.

Appearances accepting yet I know the tide does ebb and flow

while navigating challenges a time to learn and grow.

When those thoughts of disaster impending rear their ugly head

take deep breaths and make a shift ask what shall I think instead?

Snuggling with Source knowing I am Source's beloved child

harness power of positivity let my imaginings run wild.

Reeling in my future heart's delights are now in sight

magic and miracles abounding as everything turns out all right!

 

Five magnificent early morning miles on tap for tomorrow as I continue my journey on the road to the Bermuda 10K greeting every day with new strength and new thoughts tapping into the infinite possibilities that await us all.

 

From my heart to yours
In health and wellness,
Mary

Visit my ***NEW*** website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page.

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Thank you to Mike Reilly for featuring my story on Stories From the Finish Line Sponsored by CURAD Performance Series to inspire others.

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