Courage & The Joy of Winter Running

 

Courage  -- December 2008

The fear of ice and snow and slush embedded in my soul
a training run in winter - the path to Being whole.
A winter scene - Jamaica Pond - a feast for eyes' delight
to witness nature's splendor and behold this glorious sight.

A leaf - a tiny dancer - skating free without a sound
God's breath directs her movements as She guides her twirling 'round.
Families of ducks decide to walk or take a dip
a comedy of errors into icy water slip.

Branches now bejeweled though bare bend with loving Grace
sparkling diamonds' anchor water's surface hold in place.
God's hand a glove of glistening snow hugs rocks along the wall
their heads peek out reminding me I'm answering God's call.

A scene I'd never witness if I let my fear take hold
courage triumphed, steppin' out with footsteps sure and bold.
Knowing that the pain subsides and Spirit can prevail
the Marathon is beckoning - through those miles I shall sail.

It's time once again for winter running in Boston. Eighteen years ago, I experienced cold intolerance. The  nerve damage from the initial polio virus tampered with my body's thermostat. At the Spaulding Rehab Post-Polio Clinic, the physical therapist recommended silk long johns and gloves. She, along with the rest of the team said I should use a cane with an ice gripper. I was at high risk for a fracture given that the bone density test indicated osteoporosis. They were basing their recommendations on the data for polio survivors. I am so deeply grateful for their advice that helped me take those first steps on my healing journey.  

In February of 2007, I got still and asked for Divine Guidance and discovered the gift of poetry in my soul. The runner within me was born in my imagination! In February of 2008, I declared that I would run the 2009 Boston Marathon for Spaulding. I discovered the joy of being outdoors in winter that I experience to this day.

It took a great deal of courage to over ride the fear I experienced as I felt unsteady on my feet especially in winter. But oh what a glorious world opened wide as I embraced the elements and felt amazingly alive as I did during these past few weeks of magnificent miles.

Here are a few photos capturing the joy of winter running:

 

It felt like 17 degrees but we still had smiles for miles.

What a joy to celebrate 18 years of healing and my 71st birthday on Christmas Day!

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, where you can find my incredibly inspirational story and upcoming events.

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