“Make your ear attentive to wisdom, incline your heart to understanding; for if you cry for discernment, lift your voice for understanding”
Proverbs 2:2-3
The bible is clear on the benefits of wisdom; how important it is to not only seek sound advice but to use the advice that has been given to you. I, however, have always considered myself rather hard-headed. I typically don’t take advice. I like to do things my way. As I grew older I began to realize that advice may be beneficial but I would still take it with a grain of salt. Over the past several months, my thoughts on advice had changed drastically.
In my experience, training for a marathon is much like having a baby. People can tell you what to expect but you don’t really understand until your buried knee deep in it. Sure, you realize that it’s going to take a lot of time to train, you’re going to be tired, and your body’s going to hurt but just how much can only be experienced. I’m blessed to be surrounded by experienced marathoners, physical trainers, physical therapists and strong athletes. I began asking for and using their advice and the results have been my saving grace. My leg would still be in a world of pain had I not followed the advice of a knee brace change. I may be seriously injured if I didn’t follow advice to stop running on a long run day. Cold baths are amazing on hurt legs. Missing a training run here and there is not the end of the world.
I can’t wait to use the advice I’ve received for the day of the marathon. “Make sure you download good, inspirational music on your iPod (and make sure they’re not ringtones.)” “Have a good mantra you can say over and over when you are exhausted beyond belief.” “Make sure you pace yourself.” “Take your water breaks.” “Remember to have fun and enjoy the race.”
We have less than 3 weeks until our big day. What a journey it has been. I will not only cherish this experience, I will remember some of the amazing life lessons I have learned along the way.
No comments:
Post a Comment