Pull others up. Invite people in. Provide an opportunity to witness themselves whether or not they have what it takes. Such was/is the mentorship gifted me - an invitation to discover a greater potential. It has since become my modus to return the favor.
Pre-August 2023: I am five Tough Mudders deep. My hand opens many times this year in hopes of new blood. But no one lays hold. What to do?
A friend and fellow soldier Nick, has recently begun to tease the prefrontal cortex around the idea of Ultrarunning. 15K and I have gotten to know each other all too well, as I have yet to compete in anything other than. Questions arise. I wonder, what is the sense in revisiting this race if it doesn’t adhere to the mission at hand? Might it be prime time for a new vexation? Dare we allow ourselves to be humbled, once again? Pulled up by the hand of the foggy unfamiliar? Do we have what it takes to run Infinity?
Infinity is another facet of a Tough Mudder event. Each participant is required to complete at least one 15K circuit (20-25 obstacles included). From here you may proceed as vast as time permits. A 9-hour window tends to lend a lengthy runway for the physically fit. It may not be the baddest race on the planet, but it is the next baddest thing for us. We need a goal. How does 50K sound?
Unfortunately, injury will apprehend our training. So much so that several months before the event we resolve to call it quits. I espy there are many hidden lessons patiently awaiting discovery amidst this rubble of grand disappointment. I cannot share all of the details according to the case at this given time. All I can say is that the art of surrender is currently suspect and I am curious as to how this will all unfold. Fast forward…
One month and a half before the event. Hurts that once daunted now rest in peace. Surrender gives birth to healing and here ensouls hints and whispers of signing up again. I have remained faithful to training, though not on a level worthy of Infinity. Is this even a reality?
One month remains. I find myself obsessed with the question - hard pressed by time’s stubborn expiration. I can see it. I can feel it. Hot coals asset fresh fuel and the fire ignites again. Let’s do this!
We hit the ground running. Literally! With no time to waste, we sculpt our bodies for distance and endurance - our hearts and minds to lead the charge. Pull-ups are a necessary measure for the multitude of climbing, hanging, and swinging maneuvers par the course. Oh, but hundred-degree temps will strike lightning on our training! And while I covet a few extra miles for insurance's sake, Mother Nature lusts herself a great laugh. Maybe God just wants us to rest? Nonetheless, Father Time declares the weekend has finally arrived, with or without our consent.
Friday evening: My wife and I make our ascent to Rockford, IL. Nick and his are to meet us at the place of stay. I am overly focused and can hardly color outside the lines save the event itself. I need to relax.
It’s a pivotal moment as the four of us fellowship this evening across a few cozy couches. A dimly lit lounge provides a foolproof ambiance. A perfect remedy amidst the calm, ere the inevitable storm. Conversation is cheerful. Funny. Enjoyable. Surrender begins kicking in. Assuring me we’ve done what’s necessary. Gifting me the peace of mentally finishing the race before it’s ever begun. At last, I can relax. Just one more sleep…