Hard is What Makes it Great - But Sometimes Easy Makes it Good!

Last week, the memory of my first trail race on Spectacle Island popped up on Facebook. I was so anxious about the race after Alain Ferry, the Race Director posted the elevation map on Facebook. When I sent him an email wondering if I should still take on the challenge he wrote back to me with the above quote from "A League of Their Own." I've known hard ever since I was 5 1/2 years old after contracting paralytic polio and endured years of abuse at the hands of family members until my father ended his life when I was 17, a month before I started my freshman year at Boston University. With the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006 when life as I had known it came to a screeching halt, I had to "take it easy." I used a variety of adaptive equipment to support my debilitated state as I initially prepared to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and expect an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged. We used PeaPod for grocery delivery and I relied on my family to do all the chores. At my award-winning VA social work career, I had to scale back on taking my veterans to their other clinic stops. I once said that the day I was no longer able to do my job as I had always done it, would be the day I would leave. That day came on 5/25/2007.

I knew that an easy life wasn't the life I was meant to live. In February of 2007, I got still and asked for Divine Guidance. The poem, "Running the Race" flowed from my heart and soul. It opened the portal to healing and foreshadowed my 2009 Boston Marathon run. Talk about doing hard things!

Beginning in June of 2025, Tom and I set out on a training cycle for the 2026 Hyannis Marathon 10K. It was a grueling New England Winter. The training cycle culminated with my  7.2 mile birthday run. Race weekend was cancelled. Because of the unsafe running conditions, we did a 5K on 'Race Weekend,' feeling satisfied and accomplished. A hard training cycle and going farther than I had since the 2018 Bermuda Half Marathon made it great. Tom and I have been focusing on strength training and easy, shorter runs. It feels good right now!

I usually don't think about accepting accommodations to make my life easier. When we saw "Hamilton" in April, we didn't realize our seats in Orchestra Row R would require steps nor did I know there was a handicapped accessible bathroom on the first floor. This September, we bought tickets in Row B of the Center Orchestra. In April, because of all the walking we'd done before the show and needing to climb the steep stairs, I experienced muscle spasms and nerve pain although the incredible show that "Hamilton" is pierced through any discomfort I felt. When you read my blog recaps of our NYC Adventures beginning with Watch the Gap, you'll see how I am learning to walk a middle path with the challenges I still experience secondary to polio and trauma balanced with the joy of the miraculous healing I've been blessed to experience. I graciously and eagerly accepted an extended hand when there was a huge gap getting off the train at Penn Station. We "just happened" to meet Bobby Hentze, the Automation Operator at "Hamilton". What Are The Odds  that he would be coming up to the stage door just as we were taking photos.

 

After receiving a back stage tour and sharing a bit of my journey with Bobby, we embraced his kindness and generosity. While I could have easily stood in line waiting to get into the theater, I accepted his invitation to let security know that I had a 'condition' and should be at the front of the line. I was delighted when security let me into the theater lobby to sit on a folding chair until it was time to open the house.

Because we were among the first to enter the lobby, I was able to find my way to the bar (no not for a drink silly) but to find Mike Anthony, author of "Life At Hamilton." He signed my book and told me to return at intermission.

 

Rather than navigate my way through the throngs of women heading downstairs to use the bathroom, I asked for the HP bathroom on the first floor. I was able to have time to chat with Mike and get a photo.

 

One of my favorite lyrics from "Hamilton" is "Raise a Glass to Freedom", that I chose as the title for Part 3 of my Adventures in NYC blog. Musical theater has the power to transform and heal. While I've done many hard things throughout my life and especially since the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, during our recent NYC Adventures weekend, I came to the realization that sometimes easy makes it good. I am free to be unapologetically me asking for and accepting help that can bring me greater joy, grace and ease. Easy is even sweeter when someone intuitively knows what would bring me greater ease and joy. Sometimes taking the easier way leads to magical destinations. Sometimes, easy makes it oh so good!

In health and wellness,

Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My Trilogy of Transformation chronicles my journey from having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair with the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards to a woman transformed through the sport of running. Take a journey into a world of healing, hope and possibilities with my 7 books, available on Amazon. My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reading for Every Runner. You will be inspired by my strength, courage, resilience, determination and overcoming the inevitable setbacks that come with a journey to health and wellness. 

What if the key to overcoming life's greatest challenges lies in the melodies that resonate with our souls? Join us in this heartfelt episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast, where hosts Lynn Hoffman and Buzz Knight dive deep into the transformative power of music with our inaugural contest winner, Mary McManus. Mary’s journey is a testament to the healing power of music, as she shares her inspiring story of resilience after contracting paralytic polio at a young age and navigating a tumultuous family environment. Listen to the episode by following this link.

Through her narrative, Mary McManus reveals how music became her sanctuary. A pivotal moment in her life came when her cousin, a Broadway producer, introduced her to the world of musical theater—a vibrant escape that ignited her passion and brought her immense joy. This episode explores the profound connection between music and emotional healing, showcasing how Mary McManus found solace in melodies during her toughest times and how they helped her forge connections with others

Listeners will be moved by Mary’s reflections on the influence of her high school music teacher and the supportive community she discovered in orchestral music. These experiences highlight the essence of music as therapy, illustrating its role in fostering emotional well-being and resilience. Mary’s journey culminates in her remarkable achievement of running the Boston Marathon, a testament to her indomitable spirit and the impact of music in her life.

Throughout this episode, we delve into the broader themes of music and mental health, exploring how independent musicians can harness their art to inspire and uplift. Mary’s story is not just about personal struggles; it’s a celebration of the healing power of music and its ability to connect us all. From emotional healing through music to the stories of musicians who have shaped our lives, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone seeking inspiration.

 Join us as we uncover the magic of music and its role in personal stories of triumph. Whether you’re a fan of the music history podcast genre or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast promises to resonate deeply. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of finding your voice and the transformative nature of music in navigating life's adversities. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt journey with Mary McManus, where we celebrate the stories that remind us all of the profound impact music has on our lives.

 Last year I was the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

 

Reach out to me at maryamcmanus@gmail.com if you'd like me to speak to your organization or group to inspire them with what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary; how one finds strength, resilience and determination in the face of seemingly impossible odds.

     

 

 

Adventures in NYC - Part 3 - Raise a Glass to Freedom!

                                     

After meeting Mike Anthony and having him sign my copy of "Life At Hamilton", I felt as though I was floating through the crowded lobby making our way to our seats. I asked the woman sitting next to me if it was her first time seeing Hamilton. "It's our second. It's my son's 15th birthday today and when he saw Christopher Jackson was back, he asked if he could get a trip to NY to see Hamilton." We introduced ourselves and where we were from. She shared how she came to see Hamilton 'by accident' a few years ago when they were in NY seeing an opera and a friend suggested she see the show if she could get tickets. Her son became enthralled with the show. "He knows all the lyrics and I told him that he couldn't sing along during the show." "Except for when KG3 says, "Everybody" I added. We smiled. She mentioned that she forgot tissues. "Don't worry. I brought plenty. Here, have some of mine." 

A collective hush fell over the audience as the spotlight shined on Aaron Burr. For our performance, Aaron Burr was impeccably played by Bryson Bruce who is an understudy/standby for 5 roles! In Lexi Garcia-Toye's episodes on The Hamilcast, she goes all in on the track of Woman 2, aka "The Bar Wench" and being a part of the ensemble. Bringing Lexi's insights with me, I experienced a deeper and richer experience of the Story of Tonight. Jennifer Geller, who I follow on Instagram, was phenomenal in the tracks. As an aside, Lexi's journey to Hamilton will give you goosebumps when you listen to her episodes. 

When Christopher Jackson made his first brief entrance, the audience began to cheer but quickly quieted down so the actors could settle into the rhythm of the show. BUT the audience went wild with "Here Comes the General." Seeing the actors' expressions, especially Peggy (Amina Faye) during the Schuyler Sisters was priceless. Noah Kieserman was a most perfect KG3.

At Intermission, I asked one of the House Staff for the HP bathroom that I knew was located on the first floor. He had a staff member accompany Tom and me. As we passed by the bar, I told Mike I'd be right back and had to use the bathroom. He yelled out to the staff person, "Take good care of her." I looped back to Mike. "Here we have to take a picture," he said. "I'm still shaking and overcome with emotion" letting him know I needed him to take the photo. He took out his camera...

                                                                                  "I will do a Facebook post and you can get the photo," Mike said. From hearing Mike's episodes on The Hamilcast (Episodes 191-193) and seeing the bar up close, I knew how insane intermission can be. I was able to let him know how much both of his books meant to be, how his social media posts always touch my heart and soul and what an incredible human he is. "Keep doing you," I said as the lights flashed. "Ten minutes people. Ten minutes," Mike announced signaling the end of intermission. "Can I give you a hug?" Mike asked. "Of course," I said. What a gift to hug and meet this incredible human.

I rode all of the emotions with a wad of tissues during the Second Act. The chemistry between the audience and the actors added to the powerful Hamilton experience. We had seen Simon Longnight as Lafayette/Jefferson in April but at Saturday's performance, he had a love affair with the audience. Lauren Mariasoosay as Eliza and Lencia Kebede as Angelica took my breath away. Christopher Jackson's "One Last Time" went straight to my heart and soul. The audience rose as one for a show stopping standing ovation after "One Last Time." Bryson Bruce embodied Burr. We could see his sweat and tears and how deeply he dug to bring forth the emotions that Burr experienced before, during and after the duel. I'd heard about the choreography of the bullet (and so much more) when Andy Blankenbuehler, Tony award-winning choreographer was a guest on The Hamilcast (episodes 217-219 and episodes 493-494). I had goosebumps all over watching the phenomenal choreography being executed from the 2nd row of Center Orchestra. After Eliza's gasp, the audience took a silent pause together before erupting into wild applause and a standing ovation.

 

Tom and I were spent in the best possible way. We said goodbye to Jen, wished her son a happy birthday and a wonderful rest of their trip. Tom and I were planning on going to The Drama Book Shop but, given all the excitement we had, decided to get some rest at our hotel before heading back to the West Bank Cafe for dinner. Ever since Tom and Michael D'Angora won the Tony as Producers for Ragtime, I couldn't wait to give them a big hug and celebrate with them. We had passed Michael on the street and he apologized he missed us. I gave Tom the biggest congratulatory hug when we walked into the West Bank. Clinton offered us a booth right in the front of the restaurant. Tom and I took our traditional photo (Photo credit Tom Mc):

             Before Tom had to rush off to help with the show at the Beechman Theater, we were able to catch up a bit about the latest exciting happenings in his life and our epic NYC adventure. Before he rushed off, he brought out our exquisite dishes of Chicken Parm (for me) and a Roasted Half Chicken for Tom:

            

As we were waiting for our check, one of the staff, Brennan, started a delicious conversation with us. It  was better than dessert. We talked about musical theater, his acting journey, how I came to love musical theater, life in Boston and NYC, and what and what not to do when there is a celebrity sighting.

Just as I began Saturday feeling like a kid at Christmas, I couldn't wait to let Lexi know about the magnificent magic that happened with our trip backstage at Hamilton. We exchanged videos. She was leaving the Fox Theater in Atlanta where she is on tour with Hamilton. I still feel all the feels and goosebumps all over with how Hamilton weaves this beautiful tapestry of love and connection. 
In a time of division and disconnection Hamilton reminds us of our shared humanity.

On Monday, Mike posted this on Facebook along with the photo. "Life at Hamilton is entirely about human connection, and how live theater is a near-magical facilitator of that. To shake hands and hug people who’ve read the book, and brought it all the way from wherever they’ve come to share it back with me, is among the great joys of my life. Mary, meeting you and your husband was just the loveliest. Thank you, my friends" Thank you Mike for being a part of our magical magnificent NYC adventure!"

Musical theater has the power to not only connect us but to heal us. I am raising a glass to freedom - freedom to be unapologetically me. I was grateful that I was able to access the Handicapped Bathroom to both conserve energy and not have to navigate the steep stairs. I am incredibly grateful to Bobby for making sure I did not have to wait in line so I could relax and enjoy the show. I'd told him about our experience in Row R of the Orchestra when we saw Hamilton in April. I know that I am making the most and best of what I have. I discovered that there are times to challenge myself, and times to ask for and/or graciously accept help. Knowing when to do what is vital for my continued health and well-being. I've come back with a deeper love, acceptance and admiration for myself and a stronger connection to the Divine after having witnessed the magic and wonder of the Universe. I have a deep appreciation for all I’ve been through, all I’ve overcome and all the amazing gifts and blessings in my life.

Look at where I am. Look at where I started. The fact that I’m alive is a miracle ... 

To be continued....

In health and wellness,

Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My Trilogy of Transformation chronicles my journey from having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair with the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards to a woman transformed through the sport of running. Take a journey into a world of healing, hope and possibilities with my 7 books, available on Amazon. My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reading for Every Runner. You will be inspired by my strength, courage, resilience, determination and overcoming the inevitable setbacks that come with a journey to health and wellness. 

What if the key to overcoming life's greatest challenges lies in the melodies that resonate with our souls? Join us in this heartfelt episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast, where hosts Lynn Hoffman and Buzz Knight dive deep into the transformative power of music with our inaugural contest winner, Mary McManus. Mary’s journey is a testament to the healing power of music, as she shares her inspiring story of resilience after contracting paralytic polio at a young age and navigating a tumultuous family environment. Listen to the episode by following this link.

Through her narrative, Mary McManus reveals how music became her sanctuary. A pivotal moment in her life came when her cousin, a Broadway producer, introduced her to the world of musical theater—a vibrant escape that ignited her passion and brought her immense joy. This episode explores the profound connection between music and emotional healing, showcasing how Mary McManus found solace in melodies during her toughest times and how they helped her forge connections with others

Listeners will be moved by Mary’s reflections on the influence of her high school music teacher and the supportive community she discovered in orchestral music. These experiences highlight the essence of music as therapy, illustrating its role in fostering emotional well-being and resilience. Mary’s journey culminates in her remarkable achievement of running the Boston Marathon, a testament to her indomitable spirit and the impact of music in her life.

Throughout this episode, we delve into the broader themes of music and mental health, exploring how independent musicians can harness their art to inspire and uplift. Mary’s story is not just about personal struggles; it’s a celebration of the healing power of music and its ability to connect us all. From emotional healing through music to the stories of musicians who have shaped our lives, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone seeking inspiration.

 Join us as we uncover the magic of music and its role in personal stories of triumph. Whether you’re a fan of the music history podcast genre or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast promises to resonate deeply. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of finding your voice and the transformative nature of music in navigating life's adversities. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt journey with Mary McManus, where we celebrate the stories that remind us all of the profound impact music has on our lives.

 Last year I was the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

 

Reach out to me at maryamcmanus@gmail.com if you'd like me to speak to your organization or group to inspire them with what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary; how one finds strength, resilience and determination in the face of seemingly impossible odds.

       

 

 

 

Sweat and Rain on The Road to Hyannis 10K

 

Last week's theme for training runs on the road to the Hyannis Marathon Weekend 10K was signs. Coincidentally, on Tuesday evening, we were dining al fresco in our yard. We had finished our delicious BBQ and were savoring the summer evening, when my gaze was drawn upward. There had been no rain yet there it was:

It was such a spectacular sight that I asked Tom to please capture it with his iPhone. I thought to myself, "Well that makes sign number 4 for the week." I feel the gifts from the Divine's presence as I train for my next event.

This week's theme is cleansing. It was hot and humid on Saturday and Monday; for Thursday's run we had pouring rain. As George Sheehan said, "Sweat cleanses from the inside. It comes from places a shower will never reach." I was sweating so much after Saturday's 4 miler that I could not even reapply sunblock. It was wonderful to sit on the beach and enjoy a bit of a sea breeze while Tom and I refueled with peanut butter sandwiches, pretzels and sparkling water. My soul always settles by the sea. We expressed gratitude for the blessings in our lives; that we have been gifted with the sport of running for the past 17 years. Tom had been a runner in his younger days but stopped once we had twins. At first he didn't really believe me when I said that I was going to run the 2009 Boston Marathon despite never having run a day in my life and still wearing a toe-up leg brace but he humored me. Once he realized I was serious and determined, he was totally on board to support my mission.

Tom was tired on Monday morning and had a full week of work ahead. There was also a heat advisory but I got up when our alarm went off at 6:00 to get in my miles. I am delighted that I bought new singlets this year in honor of my new training cycle. Brooks had a sale. 
             

The "Run Happy" singlet was the perfect choice for Monday's run. In retrospect, it would have been smarter to adjust my pace. I ended up with a negative split on my last mile. Sweat poured from every pore and continued to pour once I got home. Although I felt a bit nauseous, I felt stress had melted away. I was refreshed and ready to start a new day and a new week. Thank goodness for air conditioning!

 

I lay in bed during the early hours of Thursday morning having awakened to bolts of lightning and thunder claps. "Oh no," I thought to myself. It's our early morning run day and I am in a serious training cycle. I meditated and must have fallen back to sleep since I was awakened by the alarm at 6:00am. No signs of lightning or thunder. Check the weather app. Only rain forecast for the entire day. It's a go!

 

As a child who contracted paralytic polio at the age of 5, wore a full metal leg brace until I was 7, was in physical therapy until 13 and just to intensify the challenge, experienced trauma in my home life, I never knew the unbridled joy of being able to run free in the rain, splashing in puddles getting muddy and messy. After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006, I went back into a toe-up leg brace, used a cane and at times a wheelchair for mobility. I was told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and expect an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged. In February of 2007, I got still and asked for Divine Guidance only to receive the answer to my prayer as discovering the gift of poetry in my soul. My pen became my Divining rod for healing. Early on in this wild and wonderful healing journey I had a dream about coming out of my leg brace and dancing in the rain barefoot and free like Gene Kelly did in Singing in the Rain (only he wasn't barefoot). The next morning I wrote the poem, "Come Out and Play" that is on one of the photo's from today's run at the beginning of the post. Whenever I run in the rain, I reflect on that magical moment in my journey. As Carl Jung said, "The unconscious prepares the way for the future."

 

Tom and I had a joyful run as rain soaked us to the skin. We sidestepped puddles when we could; when we had to go straight through them we laughed. I once read a quote that said, "Running in the rain makes me feel as though I can handle the whole world." Another great running in the rain quote is "Running in the rain. Exercise...Therapy... and a Shower all at the same time."

 

There was majesty and beauty that surrounded us with lush green trees, tall grass and the smell that is unique to a rainy day in Boston in summer.  When we got home dripping wet, we peeled off our jackets and hung them in the shower. It was a bit challenging to get out of my sports bra as I was literally soaked to the skin but channeled my inner Houdini. Tom and I smiled as we refueled with breakfast that always tastes so delicious after a run. We marveled at how I am celebrating 18 and a half years of healing and how, in our 70's we are training for a 10K, living life to the full, feeling joy and gratitude fill our hearts and souls.

Another week of training in the books on the road to Hyannis. I am enjoying reflecting on the week's training as much as I am doing the training runs and strength training workouts. Tom and I do our strength training on Tuesday mornings before breakfast. We were doing them during his lunch hour but really enjoy doing workouts and runs before breakfast. What a great way to kick start the day. 

 

I am cleansed, refreshed and renewed after the sweat and rain on this week's training runs, looking forward to a well-deserved rest day tomorrow.

 

"Anyone who thinks that sunshine is pure happiness has never run in the rain." ~Unknown

 

 In health and wellness - Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

I was recently the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

My books share a powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities; what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary and are available on Bookshop  My 6th book, "Into the Light:Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic" and my 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" are selections of the WBZ News Radio Book Club. "Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is also a selection Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reads for Every Runner. Visit my Author Page on Amazon for rave reviews.

 

When Worry Seems to Take Hold....

 

 

In the wake of Tuesday's elections results, the what if's are taking center stage on many social media posts and in the news that feeds the worries in many people's thoughts and hearts. I am a worrier by nature that stems from childhood trauma. This election cycle has been a trigger so I really have to double down on using what's in my toolbox.

Worrying puts us into survival mode. Worried thoughts can feed upon themselves and release stress hormones that can then produce more worried thoughts. It drains our energy and leaves us less prepared to handle adverse situations. Did you know that there is a 90-second rule? I HIGHLY recommend this article from April 26, 2020, that explains that a circuit of reaction lasts for only 90 seconds. After that, it is our paying attention to that thought that keeps the reaction going. It's not always easy to break the cycle but what a wonderful feeling of freedom lies in being able to do so. 

"Life’s curve balls will slam you at lightning speed from all angles, from time to time, throwing you off your path. The question is, “What are you going to do about it?” This is a question many of us never stop to think about. If you want to thrive in this world, the 90-second rule offers a mindful way to override your hardwired survival reflex of reaction and cope with life's unexpected events—no matter how dire the circumstances—in a calmer, healthier, more mature way." In truth, no good ever comes from imagining worst case scenarios. It only adds energy to a negative outcome.

There is also a reference to Victor Frankl who was a Holocaust survivor. I came to know his work when I worked as a social worker and was working to heal my own PTSD. “When we can no longer change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves... Everything can be taken from a human but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.”  

Mark Twain was a genius when it came to quotes about worries:

And speaking of imagination:

By the same token, we can use our imagination to create something we DO want. Even if the outcome we want is not apparent, while we are imagining a positive outcome we are producing feel good chemicals. The mind cannot distinguish real from imaginary and react whether the situation is in our thoughts or happening in 'real time.'

I have unsubscribed from all news sources. I am unfollowing (but not unfriending)  friends who are posting about their concerns sharing the latest hair raising news and have blocked or pulled back from people who are not like-minded or like-hearted individuals. I meditate 3 times a day - sometimes more, exercise, am mindful about my nutrition, listen to podcasts that are uplifting and inspiring and think to myself, "What's the best that can happen?"

I know many might 'fight' me and say that I'm being naive. Look at what happened before. I look to how I can live in the present moment. If things that happened before happen again 'or worse' as many people predict, then I will not have spent all this time drained and in a state of dread. And, as Simon Sinek said, "Optimism is different than positive and it's definitely not naive. Optimism is a belief that the future is positive, that there's a light at the end of the tunnel and we're heading there together."

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.

Proud to BU is a podcast highlighting the illustrious achievements of Boston University Alumni. Here is the link to my episode.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon  My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is receiving rave reviews and is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club.

Hard Days Are the Best!

 

 

 

 

A week ago Saturday, I knew that I needed to get out on the Newton Hills in preparation for my target race of the year, the 45th Annual Bill Rodgers Somerville 5K Run and Walk.  I was sleep deprived because Tom was recovering from surgery to repair the wrist he fractured right before the finish line of the Cape Cod Half Marathon. I was tired because there was so much more to do with Tom's limitations as he recovered from surgery. There's also the stress factor of having a loved one undergo and recuperate from surgery no matter how "minor" it was. When Ruth Anne and I parked the car and got on our water belts, I told her I wasn't sure what kind of a pace I would be able to do. I'd been doing a lot of speed work on my shorter runs and pacing my 5K's to mentally and physically prepare for race day. I had not done a lot of preparation specifically on hills, although there are hills surrounding our house.

We started out at an easy pace and even an easy pace felt hard. I had to shake off the fatigue and stress and get my mental game in gear. It was a beautiful day.

We stopped at the Johnny Kelly statue to take a selfie. The day warmed up quickly and I was very comfortable in a t-shirt. Quite a treat for a late October day in Boston. I focused on gratitude and how blessed I am to be able to be out on the roads regardless of the pace. I accepted all that my body would give me letting go of any expectations. While I was on the 'struggle bus' on the Johnny Kelly Hill, I put one foot in front of the other not stopping.

I was utterly surprised and delighted to see that I had done negative splits and was only 2 minutes over my goal pace for my race. 

The following Monday, Ruth Anne and I headed to South Boston for our 2 miles. It was a brisk and windy yet beautiful day by the water. Ruth Anne needed to get to the bathroom. Despite Saturday's challenging run, we pushed the pace to avoid what we runners affectionately call a "code brown." We had a lovely conversation with the staff at the Curley Center talking about our L Street Running Club. Ruth Anne suggested we take it easy on the way back since our 'mission' was accomplished. I told her I felt absolutely wonderful and wanted to do another mile of speed work back to the car. We had a strong headwind but I felt a sense of unbridled joy and freedom. I suggested to Ruth Anne that running on the hills on Saturday made running on flat ground seem so much easier despite it being our first hat run of the season.

 

 

I was reminded of a poem I wrote that is shared in my 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" and a quote from JFK:

Set Yourself Free

Running in tandem with waves
as seagulls soar
seeing Divine's creations
sun sparkles
sprinkling white caps dotting deep blue
steady breath  
scent of briny air
sounds of water lapping shore
surrounded by beauty.

Stress dissolves
each footstep bids farewell to troubles
joy bubbles from the depths
Divine Love
heart overflows
refreshment for mind and body.

Once shackled
unbridled from unfathomable past
wounds healed
wind whispers
“Run my child
set yourself free”
I am found.

 “All of us have in our veins the exact same percentage of salt in our blood that exists in the ocean, and, therefore, we have salt in our blood, in our sweat, in our tears. We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea - whether it is to sail or to watch it - we are going back from whence we came.” ~John F. Kennedy

This past Saturday, I knew I needed to dial the pace way back and enjoy an easy 5K. We did an out and back on Beacon Street because there was a strong headwind and white caps on the Reservoir. I could feel my battery running on low and know how important it is to honor what my body tells me. Coaches tell us that it's vital to balance hard with easy runs especially when training for a goal race.

Tom had a great post-op visit yesterday! Everything is healing well. He can shower on his own again and resume activities and chores that Ruth Anne and I were doing. There's still no heavy lifting but what a burden was lifted knowing he is on the mend! 

I debated whether or not to take an extra rest day. I am a member of David R. Hamilton, Ph.D.'s Personal Development Club. Because we spent the morning at Tom's appointment, I wasn't sure whether or not I would be able to make it back in time for the live session. The recording is posted the next day but it's always uplifting and inspiring to join the live session. I told Ruth Anne that I was going to see if I could push my pace and make it back in time for the session. She agreed to pace me. It was a grey day but I felt happiness and lightness now that Tom is on the road to recovery. We always make sure we take time to notice nature's beauty and splendor in every season even though we wanted to get back in under 40 minutes. Remember that for someone who is supposed to be in a wheelchair, I go pretty fast!

It was a thrill to have Ruth Anne out in front pacing me at a 17/18/19 minute mile and I dug deep to catch up with her. I can almost taste how wonderful it is going to feel to race the 5K on 12/15 and to feel the joy of Team McManus crossing the finish line together. Hard days are the best because when you push through them, you know you can get through anything!

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.

Proud to BU is a podcast highlighting the illustrious achievements of Boston University Alumni. Here is the link to my episode.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon  My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is receiving rave reviews and is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club.