The Power to be Strong

Last night I ran 7 miles at just under 10 minute miles. The last mile and a half was right into a strong wind. Overall the run felt good. "The boy" biked with me to keep me company.

I've got to start being more consistent if I'm going to do this marathon thing. I need to ramp up my long runs and start doing them consistently every Saturday. I figure I need to run at least two 20-something milers or I probably won't be able to finish Grandma's Marathon.

It's hard to know how much to push myself. If I don't work hard enough I won't be ready. But if I push myself too hard, I'm going to hurt my knee or hip again. I've been trying to do elliptical 2 or 3 days a week in place of running. I think it is less jarring on my body, but I'm not sure if it's as effective as putting on road miles.

Phil Collins wrote the theme song to Disney's version of Tarzan. The song is a great pump up running song. I like the opening line...

"Oh the power to be strong, and the wisdom to be wise. All these things will come to you in time."

That is my prayer. God, give me the power to do this thing. Help me to know when I should push myself faster when I should push myself further, and when I should rest. Amen.

The song continues...
"On this journey that you're making, there'll be answers that you'll seek. And it's you who'll climb the mountain, it's you who'll reach the peak. Son of Man, look to the sky, Lift your spirit set it free. Some day you'll walk tall with pride Son of Man, a man in time you'll be..."

On June 17th, will I be "walking tall with pride"? Time will tell.