Tis the Season!

To rediscover reason – During this time of year, most people take some time out of their busy schedules to do a self-evaluation and make goals that they will try to keep…for at least a couple of weeks next year. Surprise, surprise, I am included in this “most people” category as well. If I’m being completely honest, I don’t have much thinking to do to come up with a resolution this year because I already went through the self-evaluation process when I was injured earlier this year. Why am I doing triathlon? Is this what I’ve been called to do? Does it really matter in the grand scheme of things if I compete in a race? Do I still love it as much as I used to? Should I be living in Colorado? Should I be in grad school right now? And so on and so forth… Some answers came quicker than others but once I’d figured them all out I felt much stronger as a person. So, this year I encourage you to have the courage to look at your life and have faith that you are strong enough to make the changes necessary to be happy in whatever situation you happen to be in.

To find inspiration – With all of the problems in today’s society, it would be easy to have a cynical view of the world. But, for every story of pain and suffering, there is usually one of hope and joy to counterbalance it. Just think of the Chilean miners story or the outpouring of help to Haiti after the earthquake to name a few examples. The underlying message: no matter the circumstances, don’t give up. Don’t ever give up! As an athlete, I am continually looking for inspiration to pump me up for races or get me through a hard week of training.

Here are a couple things that have inspired me this year…

Every day when I go to the gym back home in Boulder I am amazed at the age range I see doing yoga, lifting weights, even in my swim classes. I hope to be in as good shape as these individuals 20, 30 and 40 years down the road!

A couple days ago I had the opportunity to visit my family in Illinois and spend some time with my grandparents in their retirement community. While there, I got the chance to meet two amazing ladies who also happen to be runners too! It was fun to chat with them about our common hobby and the role it has played in all of our lives. Even though they aren’t professional athletes, it’s great to see the shared joy that fitness brings to all of us. Best of luck to you Maxine and Mary Lou and be sure to keep me updated on your upcoming races!

Whatever your passion, I hope you will pursue it. Aspire to inspire before you expire!

All the best to my readers in the new year – hope 2011 is your best year yet! Race schedule and updates to come shortly…