Saturday, November 03, 2007

One Week Ago Today

One week ago today I had already walked 20 miles, used multiple port-a-potties, drank more Gatorade than I have in 10 years, attempted to sleep in a tent while wearing multiple layers of clothing and had set out on day 2 of my 60 mile adventure. When I look back all I can say is WOW!

Last Friday morning, Daniel dropped Melissa and I off at South Fork Ranch in Parker, Texas. The temperature was a slight 34 degrees. I had goose bumps on top of my goose bumps. We dropped off our luggage and joined almost 3000 others for Opening Ceremonies. Emotions were high! Excitement, tears, laughter, anxiety they were all there. The spokeswoman for this year's events was a phenomenal speaker and she truly facilitated in preparing us for the journey we were about to embark upon.

The crowd was as diverse as a box of Crayola Crayons. Men, women, young, old, survivors, fighters, repeat walkers, first timers. But each person in that field had the same purpose. 60 miles in 3 Days in hopes of finding a cure!

Watching the Survivor Circle walk in carrying their banners, I could not help but cry. Tears of joy for these women and the many others who have overcome this terrible disease. But tears of sorrow as well, for those who have not been so lucky. I walked because I could and I can. I walked because there were others who couldn't.

I knew as I took my first steps on Friday morning that it would not be easy. Physically, I knew my feet would hurt, I knew my muscles would ache. I knew I would be cold and hot and at times truly uncomfortable. However, I also knew it would only be temporary. Emotionally, I did not know what to expect and looking back all I can say is that I rode on a roller coaster of emotions that weekend. And I am so thankful I did.

Today as I go about my daily tasks I think back on last weekend when I had no concern except for putting one foot in front of the other and accomplishing my task at hand. I remember the faces of the women I walked with who were walking because life had given them a second chance. I remember!

3 comments:

Arthanise said...

I'm sitting here after crying a bucket & am in awe of you knowing you walked 60 miles for someone like me. I am not worthy. Thank you so much for taking time, thinking of & praying for me, & placing me on that precious back of yours!!! You are truly a woman of the Lord. I feel so blessed to be able to communicate with you through this blog. Until a couple months ago, I didn't think I could blog. Barely knew what it was...HA! I hope your feet are healing. That couldn't have been easy. I would love to do it when I feel better. What an inspiration you are. Thanks again! a

S+S Kline said...

What an accomplishment! You certainly are an inspiration! Thanks for sharing your experience with us.

It's great being able to keep somewhat up-to-date on your lives through your blog. I check at least once a week for updates.

Oh, and in response to your question about our friend Kevin, I am almost positive that you DO know him. Somehow, your name came up in one of our conversations once and I remember that we all thought it was so interesting that we all knew you. It's such a small world!

Thanks for visiting our blog, BTW! :)

Sarah

Unknown said...

Wow, what a precious encourager you are! The Lord has given you such wisdom and you share it so sweetly. Thank you for being so faithful and for reaching out in His name! You are a blessing.