Marathon (1/19/06)

This race turned out to be a marathon. Having been a distance runner in my youth I remember the mental challenges of protraction. This race is no different. There have been the course obstacles like betrayal, theft, incompetence, ignorance, and others. Those are tough but not near as hard as the inner struggle. These obstacles can enhance the inner struggles like betrayal tore my heart, challenged my forgiveness, and fatigued me. Inside would be the ramblings of doubt and conviction. “Can I finish, Do I care to, why me, how much longer, this isn’t fun, what difference does it make if I quit, you can do this, one step at a time, finish what you started, you’re no quitter, finish for you no matter who cares, why not you.” etc. I remember how I’d cramp and everything within me said, “stop.” All the fasting, prayer, and delay has a similar sensation. I never stopped as a runner and always made the finish line. Some of you I’m certain are fatigued by a marathon you didn’t know you entered but I want you to keep moving. We can all raise hands in victory at the end and take in that replenishing elixir of completion and redemption. I‘m tired also but not in mind. Be of good cheer the finish is near.