Let's see what this body can do...

 

“Don’t believe what your eyes are telling you. All they show is limitation. Look with your understanding, find out what you already know, and you’ll see the way to fly.” ~Richard Bach

“Let’s see what this body can do,” is a phrase that has echoed throughout my healing journey after I was blessed to meet Janine Hightower in October of 2007. To be honest, I wasn’t sure what this body could do after the setback in 2021/2022. Throughout this training cycle, I have been in awe of how my body responded to the training and how I harnessed the power of my mind to work with my body to nourish it throughout the training. I went beyond what my eyes were telling me with knee pain, calf spasms and different sensations including nerve pain. I was mindful about how far I did push myself modifying my training plan when necessary. I developed a training plan that I knew would work well for me to have success when I toe the starting line on January 13th.

My plan for Saturday’s training run was for 4 miles. As we approached the Cleveland Circle Reservoir, I needed to go home to go to the bathroom not wanting to risk what happened with Ruth Anne during last Saturday’s training run. Tom and I were left once again to calculate miles given the change in route. We thought we had a fool proof calculation but somehow we ended up with over 4.3 miles. We laughed at how we can never seem to get it right and used the extra mileage as a cool down. The torrential rain stopped as the temperatures climbed. I changed out of my winter jacket to a windbreaker when we made our pit stop. Everything worked out as it was supposed to. 

I embrace the soreness and discomfort knowing that there is power being stored in my body and mind to be unleashed on race day. I feel stronger mentally and physically for taking on the challenge to see what this body can do. For the first time in 4 years, I am anticipating a winter vacation. This isn’t just any ordinary vacation. It’s the first time since 2018 that I am off the sidelines. 

I remember when people asked me why I didn’t take a ‘normal vacation’.  It’s hard to describe the exhilaration of anticipating a reunion with runner friends in Bermuda or checking off what I need to pack for me as a runner instead of a spectator! When I wheel my carry on off of the plane, I anticipate feeling the thrill of having a suitcase filled with my running gear.

My anchor memory of taking on the Bermuda Triangle Challenge 10K is the Boston Marathon. I recall all the mental training tips for race day. The coaches told us to feel as though we filled up a balloon during the training. We slowly let it all out along the course leaving plenty in the tank for a strong finish. There was only room for thoughts of success in the final weeks leading up to Marathon Monday.

 During today’s training run, I embraced the blast of cold air giving thanks that Bermuda will be much warmer than today’s high of 38 degrees.

 

 

I focused on all that I accomplished during this training cycle. While I see many posts from my friends’ races seeing paces far faster than mine knowing I will be in the back of the pack for the 10K, I straightened my spine and let a smile cross my lips. I felt the power of the miracle of healing I created during these past 17 years. I am proud to be off of the sidelines bringing a powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities as I tackle the Bermuda hills.

On January 13, as I cross the starting line of the 2024 Bermuda Triangle Challenge 10K, I am going to see what this body can do!

 

From my heart to yours
In health and wellness,
Mary

Visit my 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 with links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

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

Be sure to subscribe to the On The Runs podcast for stories of individuals who are fierce and determined to overcome challenges, set goals and crush them. Here is the link to my Episode 56.

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Be sure to download and subscribe to the AdaptX podcast. Here's the link to my wonderful conversation with host Brendan Aylward sharing my journey of transformation and healing in the wake of polio, Post-Polio syndrome and trauma.