In The Face of Adversity...What's in my Toolbox?

 

We agreed that this year, unlike in 2016, we would go to bed early and wait for any election results in the morning. Everything seemed so different from 2016 once Kamala Harris became the nominee. Even her campaign manager was confident that there was a clear path to victory. She had the money, a brilliantly executed campaign, throngs of supporters at her rallies, backing from members of the Republican Party and his own staff from when he was 45 organizing to vote for Kamala. It was quite a shock when Tom, Ruth Anne and I checked my email to see the Globe headline that he was on the cusp to become the 47th President. We all felt gutted, shocked, angry, frustrated and confused. It was incomprehensible a) that he was allowed to run for office and b) anyone would vote for a felon among all the many labels he and his followers carry. Fear and racing thoughts took hold until we all took a collective breath and moved forward with our day. 

We connected with like-hearted individuals in social media and in real time. We were blessed with "chance meetings" in the neighborhood with two neighbors who we've known for years. We shared a laugh, tears, anger and hugs. Ruth Anne also visited a dear friend whose daughter is critically ill in the hospital. They made it a political free zone. 

On Wednesday evening, Ruth Anne received notification that her dream of the past 5 years to run the Boston Marathon for Spaulding Rehab had come true. She has been accepted to the Race for Rehab Team. She is well enough to take on the challenges of running Boston and fund raising. She wants to give back to the place that has done so much to help her find her strength and fully recover from her incredible challenges of the past 5 years. The outpouring of love and support on Facebook for her announcement touched our hearts and souls. On Thursday, we kept very busy with chores, fund raising and continued connections with like-hearted friends and family. We had morning miles with a mission as we mailed off Ruth Anne's contract with Spaulding.

 

On Friday, after all that busyness on Thursday, we took a lot of time for meditation and prayer. I realized that I needed to reflect on what do I have in my toolbox to navigate this time of adversity and challenge. We poured our time, treasure and talent into the campaign and would do it all over again in a heartbeat but I needed to dig deep into my toolbox to maintain equanimity, and not be swallowed up by fear, anger and disappointment. I have known adversity and trauma since I was 5 years old. After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome at the age of 53, I had to take a deep dive into how to radically improve my physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Perhaps these tools will be helpful to others. Feel free to add comments and share your own.

I started with gratitude. I looked through my Mac and Facebook photos to find gratitude quotes. Writing poetry about gratitude opened the portal to healing after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome. In November, I post about 30 days of gratitude. This year I am amplifying those posts and honing in on what I am grateful for. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shortly after I contracted paralytic polio at age 5, I had an out of body experience. That touch of grace enabled me to endure recovery from paralytic polio and abuse at the hands of family members. I knew that the darkness would not prevail. I knew that there was something within me greater than my circumstances. I have faith that we all have the capacity to navigate these challenging times as we did in 2016. Staying connected with like-hearted people as we ride the waves of emotions and feeling a collective sense of determination based in faith and hope is an anchor.

It's sometimes easier to do this which is where my meditation practice comes in. I've been following Dan Harris on Instagram who wrote the book, "10 Percent Happier" and has been offering wonderful words of wisdom on his account. "Action is an antidote to anxiety," and "Don't do anxiety alone" are two gems. He also shares wisdom from the meditation teachers he has studied with through the years. Ruth Anne and I are reading "Make Every Move a Meditation" by Nita Sweeney. I love Divine Timing that we 'just happened' to be reading this book when we need it most. She even references her reaction to seeing yard signs during the 2016 election cycle. I put a time limit on my catastrophic thinking greeting my thoughts with compassion but not allowing the doom and gloom scenario to swallow me up. I am not watching the news and came up with a saying, "No news = less blues." I know that I will find out what information I need to be informed but not inundated.

A quote I heard years ago is, "If you're feeling helpless, help someone."

Did you know that kindness is an antidote to stress? And choosing kindness during these times where there are so many unkind words and actions being spoken is not an easy feat. BUT it is vital for our health and well-being. I am so blessed to be friends with Dr. David Hamilton. His latest book is, "The Joy of Actually Giving a F***."

Not only does he talk about the joy of caring for others but how vital it is to care for ourselves. He addresses those kindness conundrums such as how are we kind in the face of unkindness. It is a perfect time to pick up his book where he uses science to address the health benefits of kindness and why kindness is needed now more than ever. He is also offering a FREE 21-day kindfulness experiment that combines meditation and kindness practices. As I said earlier, I am in awe and so grateful for the Divine Timing of having these books and people coming into my life.

I've been friends with Tom D'Angora on Facebook through our mutual love of Barry Manilow. He played a major role in Hillary Clinton's campaign in 2016. We each shared the view that Kamala Harris' short yet extremely effective campaign had such a different feel from 2016. Despite his own feelings of devastation, he became a beacon of light emphasizing the need for self-care and expressing the feelings of his collective village. He suggested that we begin a daily journal of things that make us smile; where can we find the joy and a few moments of respite and relief while we process what happened. We then share on his page. 

And speaking of Divine Timing.. I saw a post from my friend Lee Woodruff that she was a guest on the Optimism Institute's podcast, "Blue Sky." That was back on September 25th. I had on my to do list that I wanted to listen to it and also reach out to the host, Bill Burke to see if my journey would be a good fit to share on his podcast. I finally got to it last week. We connected on LinkedIn and his assistant scheduled a time for us to meet. I follow the Optimism Institute on Instagram and Bill shared Reasons To Be Cheerful Post. I highly recommend following both those accounts and listening to the Blue Sky podcast.

Lee talks about her toolbox of navigating that horrific time in her life after Bob was critically injured in Iraq. She could write a book about resilience. Oh and she has! 

Chocolate - yes chocolate is in my toolbox but not just any chocolate, FlavaNaturals.

Let me close on this longer than usual blog post with two quotes:

and...  “Optimism is different than positive - and it's definitely not naive. Optimism is the belief that the future is positive, that there's a light at the end of the tunnel and we're heading there, together.” ~Simon Sinek

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.

 

 

Chocolate -- FlavaNaturals

From Crocus to Crickets - End of Summer Miles With Smiles!

 

While I am nicknamed the Empress of Enthusiasm and my posts are primarily positive, there is something that not a lot of people know about me. I used to dread Labor Day Weekend. My father died by suicide on 8/1/1971. Somehow, I mustered the strength and resilience to begin my freshmen year at Boston University in September. The diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006 opened a portal to healing. I discovered the gift of poetry in my soul and the runner within me was born in my imagination. I transformed from a survivor of paralytic polio and trauma to one who experiences life through the lens of gratitude, joy, celebration with eyes wide open to the miracle of life.

The feelings of angst that were once an integral part of Labor Day Weekend have been transformed to now experiencing all the excitement of a new month, cooler temperatures for running, baking, bringing out recipes for heartier foods and the beauty that comes with transition and transformation.

I wrote the poem "From Crickets to Crocus" during the 2020 Pandemic. You can find it in my book, "Into the Light:Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic." It's one of my favorite poems to revisit at this time of year when the cricket's song serenades us to sleep. It's so easy to bemoan how quickly summer flew by. During our run on the last day of August, we celebrated with our hearts filled with gratitude knowing how blessed we are to be able to be outdoors getting in the miles filled with smiles.

 The bright green colors of late Spring and summer are beginning to fade. We can sense the shift in the light. The sun rises later and sets earlier. Temperatures are starting to dip. But our spirits soar as we anticipate #allthethings that Autumn brings. We had a fabulous 5K as I train for the Somerville Jingle Bell Run in December. With cooler temps, Team McManus will head over to Somerville to train on the course. Tom and Ruth Anne are running the Providence Downtown 5K on 9/15 and the Cape Cod Half on October 12th. 

On 9/28th, we are having an event in Providence at Providence Fit Body Boot Camp in partnership with Marathon Sports Providence. It's an uplifting and inspiring event for all ages; a wonderful way to kick off a new season. 

 

Running With Health Challenges as Septuagenerians: Still Moving and Finishing Strong! {You can read the back story by following this link.}
             
Marlene Rose Gamba and Mary McManus, both in their 70’s were two strangers when they met at the back of the pack on the Bermuda Hills 10K in January of 2024; two unlikely runners who overcame  tremendous health challenges to toe the starting line. They forged a friendship to last a lifetime. Their journeys of transformation will uplift, motivate and inspire you to know what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary.

--Enjoy a 15 minute workout led by a Providence Fit Body Boot Camp Coach

--Inspirational conversation with Mary and Marlene moderated by their daughters Melody Gamba and Ruth Anne McManus

--Book signing of Mary’s book, “A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior,” a selection of the WBZ NewsRadio Book Club

***RSVP here: https://forms.gle/mxASGoEkfp2ny3ts5

Admission is Free! Books are $15.00

Light refreshments & Raffle Prizes!
3 - $50 gift cards to Marathon Sports Providence
1 - $50 gift card to lululemon Providence
1 - $50 gift card to Rhode Runner
2 - $15 gift cards to Kwench Juice Cafe
A pack of FlavaBars from FlavaNaturals
2 - autographed copies of Mary's Book
A special gift from Providence Fit Body Boot Camp

I'm always open to how the Universe will surprise me as the cricket's song heralds the beginning of this final quarter of 2024!

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 interview with the amazing On the Runs podcast team of Erika Hamel and Eric Knuuttunen is Episode 56. Be sure to subscribe and download on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to their YouTube channel.

On 9/28 I will be at Providence Fit Body Boot Camp for a book signing and inspirational conversation, "Running With Health Challenges as Septuagenerians: Still Moving and Finishing Strong." Details are on the News and Events  Page.

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.

Into the Light - A Full Circle Moment at the Post Office

Three years later I learned that his name is Tim. 

Ruth Anne's twin brother, Autumn, wasn't feeling well on their 8/7 birthday. We decided to mail him his gifts. We debated which Post Office to go to and since we were in the Coolidge Corner area, decided to ship from there. I immediately recognized the man behind the glass in the small window to the side of the row of clerks. Ruth Anne cheerfully asked him the best way to ship the presents letting him know her twin brother wasn't feeling well and we wanted to get his gifts to him as quickly as possible. While she got the Priority Mail box I asked, "Have you been working here awhile?"

"It seems like forever," he said.

"Do you walk to and from work everyday?"

"Yes," he said with a somewhat puzzled look. 

Ruth Anne knew the story and smiled as I shared with him what happened 3 years ago as we emerged from the pandemic that is included in my book, "Into the Light: Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic."

#BeKind21 A Trip to the Post Office – Kindness is Contagious  September 8, 2021

I had my pants and return label ready to go to the Post Office for two days. I took them to the car as being one step closer to actually getting them to the Post Office. After I dropped my daughter off for her acupuncture appointment this morning, Spirit nudgedni me to go to a Post Office that I usually don't go to but that was close to her acupuncturist.

"Stand back there and wait for me to call you," the Postal Service worker barked at the man in front of me. "And make sure you are standing apart behind the blue lines. That's what they are there for."

A man with a passport application angrily walked away from the window mumbling something about filing a lawsuit.

While I wanted to leave and go to the Post Office I usually go to,  I felt the need to stay there.

"You wait there. She was ahead of you."

The gentleman in front of me said he was going to use the automatic machine but quickly returned saying it was out of order. I struck up a conversation with him about how COVID-19 2.0 seems to be leaving everyone feeling irritable. We chatted a bit about vaccines and masks before I shifted the conversation to gratitude. We smiled with our eyes and agreed that while things might seem worse, at some point the tide will turn and it will get better.

As he took his turn at the counter, a short in stature Asian woman came up right behind me in line with her mask beneath her nose. I warmly greeted her in response to her comment that there was not a long line today and asked her to please step behind the blue line for social distancing as the man behind the counter was enforcing the rules today.

"Oh yes yes," she said. "You are absolutely right."

She quickly adjusted her face mask.
The gentleman who had been in front of me turned as he went to leave wishing me a good day.

"Can I help you?" the Postal Service worker asked.

"Oh yes," I said. "I need a lot of help."

"Are you mailing these pants? This box is way too big."

"I'm sorry," I said. "That's why I didn't package it up. I have a prepaid label and a packing slip....You know I would like to just really thank you for your service. I know it's not easy working for the government under the best of circumstances. I worked at the VA for almost 20 years. I can only imagine the challenges you face every day during COVID-19."

"Thank you. Just for that I am going to get this all packaged up for you and not even charge you for the envelope."

"I'm so grateful to you for helping me."

"There's a lot to be grateful for right now...like this weather. I walk to work every day."

While he took care of everything for my package, we chatted for a few more minutes and said goodbye.

As I left, I whispered to my new friend in the line behind me, "Be sure to thank him."

I started walking down the ramp to exit the Post Office and out of the corner of my eye I saw her walk up to the window. She put her whole body and being into saying, "You extraordinary!" I heard him say "Thank you!" and I smiled knowing that the ripples from those Post Office encounters would create a wonderful vibration in my Town and beyond.

David Hamilton has done extensive research and writing on the benefits of kindness including how it is contagious. His blog, ‘How Kindness is Contagious’ is as timely today as it was ten years ago when he wrote it. Last March, David wrote in his blog, "The Most Contagious Thing is Kindness, So while we increase our physical distance to help reduce the likelihood of contagion of coronavirus, let us increase the contagion of kindness instead."

As evidenced by my recent trip to the Post Office, there is an urgent need to increase the contagion of kindness. It all begins with one person. May you be ‘patient zero.’

It was a full circle moment when he helped us get the package shipped. I was wearing my Boston Marathon volunteer jacket and he said how he loved running the Boston Marathon and yes he still walks to work every day. I told him he was in my book. He asked me where he could get it. I told him it was on Amazon and the title of the book.

When I got home, I searched in the manuscript for the story of that day. I took out an author copy, signed it, "Always remember you extraordinary" and put a post it on the page of the story.

Ruth Anne and I returned to the Post Office the next day with book in hand. His eyes filled with tears and asked me what he owed me. I replied, "Nothing. It's a gift!" I finally asked him what his name was.

"Tim. I'm Tim" and we shook hands as he shook his head in disbelief. "Thank you for this," he said. "I'm so glad you came when you did because I was just getting ready to close up." We felt #allthefeels as we left the Post Office with hearts overflowing with light and joy.

If Autumn had not been under the weather on his birthday and if we would have chosen another Post Office, this full circle magical moment would not have happened. It was all meant to be especially during these tumultuous times in our country and the world where we all need the magic of kindness.

If you'd like to learn more about the health benefits of kindness, order David's latest book, "The Joy of Actually Giving a F***" available through his website. 

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 interview with the amazing On the Runs podcast team of Erika Hamel and Eric Knuuttunen is Episode 56. Be sure to subscribe and download on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to their YouTube channel.

On 9/28 I will be at Providence Fit Body Boot Camp for a book signing and inspirational conversation, "Running With Health Challenges as Septuagenerians: Still Moving and Finishing Strong." Details are on the News and Events  Page.

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.

Into the Light: Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic

 

 

After every book I wrote, I felt as though I did not have another book to write...until... the next one!

After I wrote "Hope is a Garden: Poems and Essays From the 2020 Pandemic," I did not think I had another book to write until I started feeling the promptings of Spirit. I signed off of my blog Adventures of Runnergirl in October of 2020. I started this blog, "Hope is a Garden,": in April of 2021. The posts and poetry became the foundation for "Into the Light: Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic." On Wednesday, I designed the cover, submitted the manuscript to KDP, the self-publishing platform I use, and ordered the proof to begin the next editing phase. It's always a thrill to hit the 'submit' moving ever closer to publication.

Dedication and Acknowledgments:

 

“Into the Light: Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic” is lovingly dedicated to my husband Tom and our twins, Ruth Anne and Autumn. The tapestry of love woven tight in our family helped us to navigate the turbulent times of the pandemic meeting all challenges with humor, unconditional love, and maintaining our connection via the Signal app.

 

I want to acknowledge and thank:

 

My husband Tom for his constant support giving me the time and space for my creative process.

 

David R. Hamilton, Ph.D., and Bernie Siegel, MD, two wonderful teachers I have been blessed to know who have nurtured and supported my journey of healing and transformation. Their wisdom shined a guiding light as we navigated the uncharted waters of a post-pandemic world.

 

Our wonderful village with whom we share the miles on and off the roads. We support each other through the trials and celebrate resilience, strength and triumphs meeting life’s challenges together. 

 

Book Description:  

"As you begin reading “Into the Light: Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic” you will be drawn into Mary McManus’ unique perspective of experiencing a world pandemic as one who contracted paralytic polio in one of the last epidemics in the United States. Mary’s revelations about her struggles with whether or not to receive the vaccine despite sharing on the local news she planned to receive it after her husband received his, reveals Mary's tender heart and ability to be vulnerable. She shares how the pandemic unearthed traumatic memories from her tumultuous childhood after polio and will leave you asking the question, “How has Mary been able to live life with an attitude of gratitude, hope, optimism and faith after all the challenges she endured.” Mary’s poetry and essays chronicling 18 months of emerging from the 2020 pandemic is woven with her valiant and inspiring story of healing her life after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December 2006."

 

About the Author: 

 

Mary McManus, motivational speaker,  author and poet, 2009 Boston Marathon finisher, polio and trauma survivor has a remarkable story of resilience, healing, hope and possibilities. Mary refused to take the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome sitting down. Her pen became her divining rod for healing harnessing the power of the mind/body connection through poetry. She embarked on a journey that took her from  leaving behind her award winning career as a VA social worker, to the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon, and many adventures as a woman transformed through the sport of running.   

 

If you are thinking about writing a book and telling your story, may you be inspired by my books and this powerful quote from Maya Angelou:

From my heart to yours,
In health and wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at https://marymcmanus.com to learn about my journey to health and wellness in the wake of paralytic polio and trauma

Visit the News and Events tab to listen to my inspiring and uplifting interviews

My books to motivate, uplift and inspire you are available on Amazon

Ready - Set - Recharge

 

Last week, Team McManus knew we needed to have a daycation; a day where we unplugged, did something different for cross training and treated ourselves well with dining out for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We had not been to our once happy place, Falmouth, since Memorial Day of 2021. With Tom and Ruth Anne training and fundraising and Tom doing contract work, we didn't see our way to having more time than a few days in Hyannis celebrating the twins' 35th birthday in August. We knew it was vital for our mental and physical well being.

"I don't know if I want to swim in the ocean if we aren't going to have any place to change," Ruth Anne said. "I'd love to get into a pool before summer is over."

I'd been thinking about this quandry and had toyed with the idea of getting a room at The Admiralty Inn and Suites where we stayed for years. There is usually a two night minimum stay for Labor Day Weekend on Cape Cod. I checked their website and it looked as though  there was a room available for Sunday night. I didn't give it more thought until last Thursday when Ruth Anne expressed concerns about being in our 'crusty' bathing suits all day.

"Hello Admiralty Inn and Suites."

"Hi I was wondering if you have a minimum night stay for this weekend."

"I'm sorry but we're booked for the weekend."

"Oh I thought I saw a room available for Sunday night on the website."

"I'm sorry. I misunderstood you. When you said weekend..." 

"Oh no it's my fault. I should have been more specific. With whom am I speaking? Is this Eric?"

"Yes it is. Whose this?"

I gave him my name and he said, "Well let me get you set up with a great room. We've recently renovated the property and I'd love for you to see the new courtyard room. ... Let me get you in for a great rate."

I explained that we weren't going to stay overnight but wanted to use the property's amenities and to shower and change after beach and pool time. "Absolutely," he said. "We look forward to welcoming you back!"

We left very early Sunday morning to avoid traffic. Everyone says how you feel the magic of stress release driving over the Bridge:

We all agreed that we would take pictures but not post on Facebook or be on line for the entire day.

Our first stop was Crabapples, our favorite breakfast place in Falmouth:

We checked out The Admiralty Inn and let the front desk staff know that we knew our room wouldn't be ready but Eric let us know that we could use the pool. "Absolutely," she said and added, "Let me have your phone number so I can call you when the room is ready."

There was a family that had taken over a section of the pool deck playing loud music. We didn't want to disturb them or ourselves and headed for the beach.

We spent the entire morning on the beach. I meditated, read, put my toes in the water and took videos to enjoy when winter comes around. Tom rested, read and meditated. Ruth Anne frolicked in the waves and swam feeling unbridled joy free from the constraints of a training plan feeling the healing power of sun and sea. She put down beach towels and fell asleep to the sounds of the waves.

When lunchtime came, we were going to go to Shipwrecked but the Universe had other plans. There was a long line along with the smell of deep fried food. We dried off and headed to Main Street. There were long lines at most places. "Why don't we go to the Quarterdeck Restaurant?" I suggested to Tom and Ruth Anne. During the pandemic we wouldn't have dared to venture inside of what is a crowded bar and restaurant but since COVID is now considered endemic, we were delighted to get a lovely table with wonderful service.

It was Ruth Anne's first visit to The Quarterdeck restaurant and we reminisced about Cape Cod Marathon Weekend when we met Tommy Leonard. We all enjoyed reminiscing about previous trips to Falmouth as a family. After we finished lunch we had a big question to ask... Do we or don't we?

We did! What a treat to walk up and down the bustling sidewalk and shops of Main Street with barely a trace of the pandemic.

It was time to head back to the Admiralty Inn for swimming, relaxation, more meditation and showers. Our Courtyard Room opened up to the pool area and we had a private patio. Ruth Anne and I went into the pool to swim and stretch while Tom rested in the room since he was our designated driver.

What a treat to have a place to shower, change and relax after a day of fun in the sun and get ready for dinner.

The last time we were at The Flying Bridge, Memorial Day of 2021, we couldn't stay for dinner. It was a rainy day and the plastic enclosure from the winter was still in place. The scent of hand sanitizer, seeing a sea of empty tables and weary wait staff left us feeling sad wondering if we would ever be able to return to our beloved restaurant on beautiful Falmouth Harbor.

There was a line out the door but only a 20 minute wait. We saw members of a wedding party arrive. It was a perfect end of summer evening. We took a walk while we waited to receive the text that our table was ready. Waitstaff were taking a break outside and Tom asked them how their summer was. They said it was their best season ever!

Drinks and plates overflowing with the traditional Flying Bridge fare were served with flair and joy. Friends and families' conversations were animated as laughter echoed throughout the harbor. Patrons were packed close together. There was a rhythm and ease to the service despite the number of customers eager to enjoy their drinks and food. 

We heard a spontaneous eruption of applause as the bride and groom walked along the harbor walk to have their photos taken. There was so much to celebrate beyond a wedding and end of summer. Celebration for the end of the pandemic was palpable. 

As we drove across the bridge heading home, I felt recharged and renewed ready to begin a new season. I reflected on the stark contrast between the summer of 2021 and Labor Day 2022. Ruth Anne and Tom are training for three half marathons. At the end of our Hyannis vacation, Ruth Anne set a new running and fundraising goal for Victory Programs. We are excited for so many job prospects open to her. Tom transitions from contract work to employee. When he took his leap of faith leaving Boston College, we knew we would land on our feet as we always have but couldn't possibly have imagined he would be hired for a job he loves with an incredible manager and co-workers who truly value him as a professional and as a person. My opportunities to share my incredible journey of transformation continue to expand and I am thrilled to be finishing up the manuscript for "Into the Light: Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic." While the hours of daylight may be diminishing, I am filled with hope that light in our world is expanding.

Into the Light

 

In winter’s darkness

as pandemic “rages” on

turning inward

rhythm of my beating heart

radiates warmth

beaming Love to heal weary world

harping on darkness.

 

Love beams spark hope

harbingers of lightness and ease

focus on Source if you please

gratitude flows for miracles on horizon

be in the flow

this too shall pass.

 

Let burdens be lifted

shift to a new perspective

bright and bold

declaring all is well

confidently

deftly

running into the light.

 

From my heart to yours,
In health and wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at https://marymcmanus.com to learn about my journey to health and wellness in the wake of paralytic polio and trauma

Visit the News and Events tab to listen to my inspiring and uplifting interviews

My books to motivate, uplift and inspire you are available on Amazon

 

 

 

Hope is a Garden

 

 

We started planting tomatoes when Ruth Anne was taking an Environmental Science course in her junior year of high school. I didn't feel particularly connected to gardening or growing our own food because I was caught up in working full time and managing our household while supporting our twins on their life journey. When Ruth Anne started her volunteer gig at ReVision Urban Farm, we purchased seedlings to have our own vegetable garden. During the pandemic, we planted tulips and created a flower garden for the first time since we moved into our home 24 years ago. When we planted the garden in October of 2020, I was inspired to write the title poem of my book, 'Hope is a Garden: Poems and Essays From the 2020 Pandemic":

 

Hope Is A Garden  

 

Dirt stained knees

spade turning over soil

feelings flutter

tenderly tilling the earth

lovingly placing bulbs

embodiment of expectations and hope.

 

Hope is a garden

holding seeds in hand

awe-some

everything they need to know

ready to burst forth.

 

Patience and perseverance

faith abides

kneeling

knowing no prayers needed

all unfurls in Divine Timing.

 

In darkness hope stirs

light pierces through

as new life breaks ground

yet invisible to the eye

seeds of infinite possibilities

hope the harvest of imagination.

 

We decided to go with a flower and herb garden this year instead of vegetables, purchasing our farm fresh vegetables directly from ReVisiona Urban Farm at their Farm stand on Thursdays. We bought seedlings in May and have been in awe watching our garden grow. There is a drought in Massachusetts. We use the water that is collected by our de-humidifiers to water the garden. It's the first time we've grown sunflowers. I've seen them fully grown in other people's gardens or fields but have not had the privilege to watch them slowly unfurl their magnificent flowers. The process reminds me of how everything occurs in Divine Timing. The magic happens when we trust nature with whatever endeavors we may pursue.

It is so easy to become impatient and ask "why hasn't this happened yet?" I hit the STOP button when I find myself thinking that way. I take a deep breath and say, "Just look at the magnificence that happens in nature in its own pace and timing. Nothing is forced. What incredible beauty is revealed deep in the mysteries and magic of all that is unseen. Possibilities happen in the unknown."

I am celebrating 15 years of healing since the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome and in the wake of the once devastating effects of trauma and paralytic polio. There are always going to be challenging times, especially with the pandemic, but with an attitude of gratitude and opening up my heart to grace I allow my own beauty to unfold as I continue to heal. I allow poetry to flow through me and send powerful messages of healing, hope and infinite possibilities out into the world through my books and social media posts. 

I meditate in our garden feeling a connection to hope despite all the headlines. I allow hope and optimism, gratitude, grace, love and joy to grow deep in my heart being One with all that is. 

Look closely and see the beginning of the sunflower opening up among these magnificent marigolds:

 

 

 

 

We have an herb basket filled with mint, chamomile, basil, and lemongrass.

 

What seeds do you plant in your heart to blossom and grow into kindness, joy, love, beauty, hope, optimism, light, compassion and gratitude? Do you weed out thoughts of anger, judgment, resentment, unworthiness, lack and jealousy?

Here's to healing, hope and infinite possibilities in your garden of life!

From my heart to yours,
In health and wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at https://marymcmanus.com to learn about my journey to health and wellness in the wake of paralytic polio and trauma

Visit the News and Events tab to listen to my inspiring and uplifting interviews

My books to motivate, uplift and inspire you are available on Amazon

Two Years Later...

 

One of my friends who I met through running posted on her Facebook page, "Today was a day I want to bottle up and save. I had 24 miles in my plan and I planned to run it on the course with friends. The weather was perfect and I was reminded of how great the running community is."

Two years ago, the Newton Hills were silent. The crushing news of the April Boston Marathon's postponement until September sent runners into an extended taper time and training season. The few runners who were out on the course were socially distanced wearing buffs or masks. Little did we know it would be two more years before the hills would once again be alive with runners. 

 As we often ask each other early on a Saturday morning, we asked, "Where shall we run today?" There was rain in the forecast for the third Saturday in a row. At first we thought we'd go out the door but at the last minute decided to go to Heartbreak Hill. We knew that there would not be the usual throngs of charity runners even though it was the last long run for those training for Boston. The Boston Athletic Association said that they would not allow runners who received bibs through the BAA to run on the course due to public safety out of an abundance of caution. We were, however, surprised to see so many runners out on the course.

The sun shined brightly on Heartbreak Hill. Tom and Ruth Anne left their jackets in the car. As we got to the corner of Commonwealth Avenue and Centre Street, Tom needed to make a pit stop. Ruth Anne and I stayed on the opposite side of the street and saw him hugging someone. He shouted out, "Margo!"

We crossed the street and we hugged with one of our dear friends in the running community who we met when Margo and her sister ran the Boston Marathon for Spaulding Rehab in honor of their Poppy who lives with Parkinson's Disease. We had been talking about Margo just last week! She was running with someone who is running Boston and we told her about Ruth Anne and Tom being on the road to the Providence Half Marathon. "Yeah definitely..send me the link and I'll donate." 

Tom and Ruth Anne took off at their pace and I was thrilled to smile at so many runners heading down the Newton Hills. I turned around at my hloalfway point delighting in the glorious sunshine and relishing the energy of Heartbreak Hill in April. Everyone says to one another, "You've got this" not being able to distinguish who is training for Boston and who is out for a run to soak up the energy.

 

I was amazed that the sun was still shining despite the weather prediction for rain. I stretched, refueled and took the beach chair out of the car. As Tom and Ruth Anne did their 9 mile training run, I decided to do my spectator training.

Many runners shouted "Hi Mary" as they ran by. 

 

 

 

  My runner friend whose quote I used to begin this blog called out "Hi Mary!!" We hugged and she stopped for a few minutes to chat with me. "Let's take a selfie," she said and included it in her last long run Facebook post:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The magic of the day was capped off when a woman runner was stretching next to me. "Is this your first Boston?" "It's my first everything!" A friend joined her and they were saying how they didn't know how they were going to run another 6 miles. 

"I think you need to hear my story."

One of the women said that she was moved to tears when I told her how I went from being told to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair to the finish line of the Boston Marathon. They told me a bit about their Boston Marathon journey and asked me to take a photo. They asked me where I'd be watching on Marathon Monday. "Look for me at the corner of Beacon Street and Dean Road. It's just before mile 23." "Great," they said.  

I had wished we would have exchanged information so I could track them on Marathon Monday.  I gave them my website information and trusted in the Universe that they received the message they needed to get through taper time. 

Yesterday I received a FB message from another runner friend that led to the connection to the two mystery women I met on Heartbreak Hill at the end of their last long run before Boston. 

"I heard you met my friend Carly on the marathon route this weekend. She was so thrilled to meet you and hear your story! She shared in our running group."

 

I asked if she could connect us on FB messenger and we all became friends. I was able to see the photo I had taken of them together and get to know a bit more about them before they toe the starting line on April 18, 2022.

 

Two years later, the magic has returned to Boston. Two years later traditions emerge from the shadow of the pandemic overflowing with light, love and joy. Two years later...we made it through!

 

Two Years Later

A future once imagined now within sight
emerging from pandemic into the light.
Springtime rebirthing sky brilliant blue
vibrant colors the signal that we made it through.
We held onto Hope in midst darkness and fear

Source abiding reminding take heart I’m right here.
Though winter’s grip seemed to have us firm in its hold
we dared dream of a future no more shivering with cold.
Two years what a journey unmasked with hugs now we greet
navigated times of uncertainty excited for a time when we'd meet.
Eyes shimmering with tears grateful hearts overflow
manifesting health and well being in pandemic's wake we now grow.
Times of uncertainty they are all part of life
but we'd never imagined such heartache and strife.
Clouds of despair now dispersing warm sunshine we live life anew

with steadfast faith and each other two years later we made it through. 

 
From my heart to yours,
In health and wellness,

Mary

Be sure to visit my website at https://marymcmanus.com to learn about my journey to health and wellness in the wake of paralytic polio and trauma

Visit the News and Events tab to listen to my inspiring and uplifting interviews

My books to motivate, uplift and inspire you are available on Amazon