The Worst Ride at Disney World

If the only prayer you say in your life is ‘thank you,’ that would suffice. – Meister Eckhart

The past few weeks, well really the past few months, have been a bit of a roller coaster around here. In truth, that’s not even a fair analogy because a roller coaster tends to have equal highs and lows. My roller coaster would contain a majority of lows and that would make for a stupid, overpriced ride at Disney World. What I am trying to say is that this roller coaster has not been that fun to be on, but shucks, I sure have learned a lot! Can you say AFOG?

Yesterday I watched as Sam, 14, gave his “Presentation of Learning” at school. Basically, as exiting eighth graders, they had to sum up the past three years in regards to academics, transitions, social lives, etc. He used the roller coaster analogy too. When he told me he was going to use this, I told him it was too boring and overused (I’ve never been one to be opinionated).

Then he let me know he wasn’t going to use just any roller coaster. He was going to use the caterpillar one seen at local fairs. The one little kids ride. He chose this because, in his experience, middle school did not have huge ups and downs, just some minor hills and valleys. Clearly he is not a girl.

I love this kid for how self deprecating he is. How he does not take himself too seriously. How he connects with people. Not many 14 year olds would include this picture in their presentation (for when he was 11). I learn from him every day. And, yes, he gave me permission to use this picture. Something about this reminds me of Pee Wee Herman.

As trite as it may sound, the thing that helps me most through challenges is being grateful. I know – that is so Oprah-ish I can barely stand it. But, I will say it is almost impossible to wallow in shit and complain in the same moment you are being grateful. Try it!

Here are some bright spots of this day:

This check. Finally, today I am sending this off to Montana. With your help we raised a nice chunk of change for Sherry’s children.

This one eyed, three legged dog who has a massive tumor in his lungs and squirts shit around the house regularly is still with us. He’s still engaged and lovable. The end may be near, but not quite yet.

This tree. You might remember that last fall this tree got pummeled by an early season snow storm and almost met an early demise. Now it’s back, even if it’s missing part of its top.

This guy (Douglas Wisoff, Radiant Running). I will start running form coaching sessions with him on Thursday.

 I have been reading Chi Running and researching changes I might be able to make to my running form to help me be a more efficient and injury resistant runner. In this time of injury hell, this is the one thing that has made me very optimistic and excited about my running future. I know it will take time and patience, but I do think the end result is going to be very positive. More info on his coaching style HERE.

These two. My mom and dad have been travelling for over two weeks. Even though I don’t see them every day, it’s reassuring to know they’re nearby. So nice to have them back! This is what 50 years looks like.

And lastly…5 pain-free miles today!

How to be grateful for when you don’t feel like it:

• Don’t think of what you lack, appreciate all you have
• Remember to thank everyone in your life for their small acts of kindness
• Don’t get stuck in thinking life revolves around you. Put your focus outward.
• Write it down. There is power and intention in the act of putting pen to paper.

Put aside your worries and cares for one minute. What’s something you’re grateful for today? Besides this blog of course.

SUAR