Steamtown Marathon Rocks!

Okay, having only about 2 minutes to whip off a post about last Sunday’s Steamtown Marathon, I have to concisely articulate my thoughts about it.  In a word, it ROCKS!!!  The weather was perfect, the volunteers were plentiful, the course was gorgeous.  The downhill, however, beat up my legs.

My time was 3:53:13.  Initially, I was devasted as I needed a 3:50:59 to qualify for Boston 2009.  I did qualify for 2010, so I’m happy about that.  What really kills me is that at mile 18 my time was 2:34 and at mile 21 it was 2:59.  I was running so well until my calf knotted up and forced me to stop and stretch.  But I’ll save that story for another time.

Only 2 Days!

It’s hard to believe that I’m saying this, but only 2 days remain until I run the Steamtown Marathon in Scranton, PA.  Admittedly, I’m nervous.  Have I run enough?  Am I strong enough?  Will I attain my goal?

At this point, there’s nothing left to do but rest and eat and exercise my mind.  To me, mental focus is everything.  Each of us sends vibrations and energy into the world.  The types of vibration we give off create our reality.  For example, if I focus my thoughts on negativity, I produce negativity.  Of course, the opposite is also true.

Mantras are a great way to focus your mind on the positive.  I invite you to develop a mantra that is personally meaningful that will carry you through the most challenging circumstances.  My mantras are as follows.

Be present.

Shine on.

Believe.

Breathe in love, joy, peace, gratitude.  Breathe out acceptance and hope.

If you are running a marathon this weekend, love every step of the journey.  Keep your mind focused on being present and remember that in a few short hours it will be a memory.  Make it a memory that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. 

Namaste.