BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Change the way you look at obstacles

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about something every runner (and every person on the face of the earth for that matter) will face from time to time... obstacles. Or as defined, things that block a person's way or hinder their progress. And although there are many obstacles you and I might encounter in our pursuit of the finish line, there is perhaps none more frustrating than an injury or illness because they are things we have absolutely no control over, right? Wrong! Okay, so we can't magically heal ourselves or be cured in a moment of what ails us, but we can change the way we look at these obstacles and use them as ways to grow in grit, grace, and gratitude. Doing so will ensure that we maintain our motivation!!

As a longtime runner and running coach you can be sure that I've not only encountered my fair share of injuries and other obstacles in my training but have watched lots of my fellow runners go through them too. And this is what I've learned... those people who choose to stay positive and look at the bright side of things, even when it seems impossible to find the good in a bad situation, come out better for it. Lisa Seachord (pictured above with her daughter) is one of those people. Throughout the many years I've been blessed to know her, Lisa has faced many obstacles in her pursuit to maintain a consistent exercise program. But every one of those hindrances has taught her ways to adapt and overcome. I can honestly say that this girl has grown in grit, grace, and gratitude throughout the years. Something she is using to  help her stay focused on her goal in the midst of her latest setback that she is so graciously allowing me to share in the hopes it will inspire someone to view their obstacles in the way she has learned to view them. 

On May 2, after experiencing severe pain in her left foot for a few days, Lisa made an appointment to be seen and sent me this message "Just finished with an appt at the doctor‘s office on my foot. Possible stress fractures so he has ordered a bone scan." After a few more appointments and consultations, Lisa's diagnosis was worse than she expected and her surgery is scheduled for June 21st, a procedure that will require 12 weeks to recover. To say she was upset would be an understatement! She was doing better than ever! Fast forward to today and this is what Lisa posted Tuesday and I felt led to share:

Something I want to share this morning. There are goals/things we want to accomplish. Along the way we run into obstacles. Something I’ve learned and am still working on. We have one of two options 1). We can let that obstacle/challenge stop us from achieving our goals or 2) we can adapt and work with the things we have.

 
Too often I allow those obstacles/challenges to dictate the outcome. Reflecting on what’s happening has been so helpful and a blessing. For instance; I literally waited 2 1/2 hours just waiting on PCP to come in the room. I was getting frustrated, however, I dozed off and the rest was much needed. I was thankful for the rest I got. Right now I’m looking at foot surgery. Frustrated because there’s things I wanted to do this summer but can’t now. Forcing me to look at the challenge and adapt, I’m thankful for the things I’ve learned along the way that otherwise I wouldn’t have.

I needed the rest, I was provided with that opportunity. That perspective was huge and I was grateful for the wait. Reminder to take the time to reflect, you’ll find some love letters along the way. 

Did you witness the grit, grace and gratitude she displayed? The combination of those traits Lisa has cultivated by overcoming smaller obstacles in the past will not only allow Lisa to overcome this bigger obstacle (she already bought a recumbent bike and has made other plans to cross-train while healing) but inspire others to stay in the fight as well. 

So there you have it friends. When obstacles arise, we can choose to give up or choose to adapt and work with the things we have. As for me, I will always choose to adapt and press on because if there's one thing I've learned in all my years of running, it's this.... regret makes a very hard pillow. Change your perspective to focus on the good and be grateful for what you can do rather than what you can't and you’ll not only be motivated to hang in there until you reach the finish line but will grow in grit, grace, and gratitude along the way. 

HAPPY RUNNING!

Best parade ever

"But thank God! He has made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ’s triumphal procession. Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume. Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing" 2 Corinthians 2:14,15 NLT

To honor our nation's fallen yesterday, my friends and I participated in the wear blue:run to remember Memorial Day run. And while most of the people who attended the event chose to run the 5k distance, Jeannette and Gretchen (two of my craziest friends) agreed to run a half marathon with me which consisted of the three of us making our way from the city park to the cemetery by running alongside Old Route 66 in downtown Waynesville, MO. With two of us carrying the American flag, we must have raised some questions as to our intent--something that was made very clear when we passed an older couple working outside in their yard. "Are you all part of a parade or something?" the lady asked as we slowed down for our 30-second walk cycle. It took me a moment to understand the question but you can be sure I chuckled when I did and said, "No ma’am. We're just enjoying Memorial Day by showing off our patriotism." "If we're a parade then we're the worst parade ever," Gretchen said as we began our run cycle. "And the shortest too," Jeannette added as we all laughed.

And you know, when it comes to being part of a parade, the Bible tells us that God "made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ’s triumphal procession. Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume." To understand what this means, consider that in a Roman “triumphal procession” or parade, the Roman general would display his captives and treasures amidst a cloud of incense burned for the gods. To the victors, the aroma was sweet but to the captives it was the smell of slavery and death. "But thank God!" we are captives of Christ assigned the task of "showing off" or preaching the gospel to all those along the parade route of life, something that is a life-giving fragrance to those who choose to believe it and a repulsive aroma to those who don't. 

So preach the gospel wherever you go my friend knowing that "this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing." Some will see it as the best parade ever while others will view it as the worst. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that our lives are to be a Christ-like fragrance so that the lost would come to know You through the message we preach. Lord, please give us the boldness to share the Good News even to those will vehemently reject it and us, knowing that the day of Jesus’ return is quickly approaching. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Take a stand for Truth

“You deliberately disobeyed God’s law, even though you received it from the hands of angels.” The Jewish leaders were infuriated by Stephen’s accusation, and they shook their fists at him in rage.” Acts 7:53,54 NLT

Like thousands of other Americans around the world this morning who recognize the debt owed to the service members that gave the greatest sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy in America today, I will begin the Memorial Day celebration by running with friends and expressing my deep gratitude at one of the wear blue: run to remember organized events in Waynesville, Mo. Their mission on this day of solemn remembrance? With your commitment, we will match the over 65,000 fallen service members who have died from the first days of the Vietnam War to present day conflicts. Honoring the fallen through purposeful steps is an act of gratitude that humanizes the loss of our military members and fosters healing. This Memorial Day, we will learn their stories, speak their names, and honor their legacies. Having participated in these events before, I will tell you that the stories that will be shared of the brave men and women who fulfilled the mission they were tasked with completing even in the face of death will bring many people, including me, to tears. Especially knowing we now live in a country where the freedoms they fought and gave their lives for are in grave jeopardy; a truth so many people are afraid to voice.

And you know, when it comes to serving our homeland, do you realize that every believer is a soldier in God’s army tasked with the job of sharing the Truths laid out in the Bible? You see, although we might be citizens of the United States, our true citizenship is in heaven. But until the day God calls us home, we have jobs to do here—one of which, as Stephen knew, is to confront those people and groups who are in direct and deliberate opposition of “God’s law” even if it costs us our popularity, our jobs, our freedom, or even our very lives. A good soldier, like the first martyr Stephen, stays true to the task assigned by their Commanding Officer no matter how much it infuriates the opposition. And if you think persecution of the true church won’t happen here, think again my friend. The Bible forewarns us that in the end times, there will be widespread persecution, even in countries where Christians never faced persecution before.

So as we prepare ourselves to go into the battle, let us remember that we are not alone. We not only have brothers and sisters who will fight alongside us but a God who goes before us and behind us. And even if we lose everything here by speaking up, we will gain everything when we finally make it home.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the Word that tells us everything we can expect in the coming days as we get nearer to Your return. Give us the strength to stand firm in the battle and the stubbornness to not compromise on the Truth no matter the consequences Lord. Like Stephen, cause us to be bold even in the face of death knowing that when we take our last breath here, we will take our first breath in heaven. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Be anxious for nothing

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:6 BSB

In an article posted by Runner's World on May 17 subtitled, "Bring the focus to your inhales and exhales to help ease anxiety," the writer said: While you can’t necessarily eliminate the laundry list of stressors going on in the world right now, you can implement strategies to help manage your own emotions to decrease your anxiety. Running can be a great stress reliever, but there’s also something you already do all day, every day, that is an excellent tool to tap into: your breath. In short, breathing exercises can help with lowering your overall stress and anxiety levels and preventing them from spiking. The key is to practice them regularly, not just when you’re experiencing an anxious moment, Goldman says. “I typically recommend to my clients that they practice a few times daily, such as first thing in the morning and right before bed,” he says, taking as many breaths as you need to feel calmer. That averages at about three to four breaths, according to Goldman. FYI, you set the tone for your entire day by taking a moment for yourself to pause and relax when you wake up, Goldman explains. Doing so before bed can help you regroup and get into a restful state before sleep too. Once you feel confident in your ability to do these exercises, you can start to implement them specifically during stressful times, Goldman says.

And you know, when it comes to easing anxiety during stressful times (and doesn’t the day we live in qualify as a stressful time?), you and I would do well to not only stop to take in a few deep breaths regularly but to meditate on the words of Jesus who said, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Did you get that nothing and everything part? They go hand in hand meaning that when we, with thankful hearts, place everything in God’s hands through prayer—our cares, our troubles, and our worries—we will have nothing to be anxious about because we can know with certainty that God will work everything out according to His good and perfect will. Do you just love that or what? 

So pray about everything my friend... the big things, the little things and all those things in between. Doing so will bring peace to your heart, to your soul, and to your mind even in the midst of the most stressful times. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that believers have no reason to allow anxiety to gain a foothold in their lives because You have promised the peace that surpasses all understanding to those who have placed their trust in You. Cause us to remember this Lord when our hearts are stirred for one reason or another and to remember that although we will have trials here, You have overcome the world. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

We must be the workers

“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.“ Matthew 9:36-38 NIV

Like many other people around the world yesterday, my heart was broken by the shooting at the Robb Elementary School in Ulvade, TX on Tuesday that left 22 people dead. In fact, I was so upset over it (and all the other evil things being done to our children right now) that I stopped on my morning run to sob. Thankfully, as the Lord has done many times in the past, He arranged for my dear friend Dawn to intersect my path on her way to work at the moment I needed her. Upon seeing Dawn, I did my best to compose myself to no avail and so explained the reason I was so upset. “Sorry,” I said to her after we chatted and she comforted me. “I just can’t wrap my mind around this.” Five minutes after she drove off though, I had to smile as I slowed down to read the text she sent me, “Just want you to know that you don’t need to be sorry. God had a hand in us meeting this morning. I prayed for you and know that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes. Love you.” “I so needed that today Dawn,” came my reply. “I love you so much. And I love how the Lord arranges our meetings when we need it. My prayer is that our hearts will not only break for what breaks His but that they will break so deeply that it will move us to action.”

And you know, as bad as our world is right now, there are no signs of anything improving. In fact, Matthew 24 says these are just the beginning of birth pains. Which is the very reason the prayer, “Break our hearts for what breaks Yours' so deeply that it moves us to action Lord” is so extremely important to pray. You see, the Bible tells us that Jesus’ heart broke for those people who were “harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” But I imagine it must have also broken his heart to know that there weren’t enough workers in the fields to bring in the harvest. That makes my heart break too as I hope it does yours. My fellow believers, it’s time for us to move! It’s time for us to not only pray for more workers to come alongside us but to head “into his harvest field” ourselves! 

So as you watch the events of the last days unfolding before your eyes, look up my friend. Jesus is coming back soon! And when He does, may He find us diligently co-laboring alongside one another to bring in the harvest. Now is the time!

Heavenly Father, please break our hearts for what breaks Yours’ that we might share the same compassion Jesus had for the hurting and the helpless. Help us to stand up for what’s right despite the opposition and to boldly share the Good News despite the rejection and persecution we can expect to receive in the coming weeks and months. Lord, please cause us to be tenacious in our pursuit to lead the lost to the foot of the Cross while there's still time. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Make the Most of It

Hello runner friends!
Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series
MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about heat and humidity and a lesson that we can all learn from it as summer approaches. This is a lesson that I hope will motivate you to say, "Yes! Bring on summer!" rather than "Oh boy, summer's on the way." 

But first let's discuss one way hot weather affects your running... 

It makes you slower. That's right. But guess what's so great about making the decision to embrace slowing down at least for the two weeks it takes for your body to acclimate to the rising mercury and atmospheric moisture? It can keep you from getting frustrated and give you a reason to live in the moment and just be present. 

What do I mean by that? Well... I've been running for three decades now and at the beginning of every summer before I made the decision to slow down while the acclimatization process was happening, I would get so frustrated! "Aaarrgh! I'm so slow," I would yell out loud! But this did absolutely no good and only stole some of the oxygen I so desperately needed to complete those first couple hot weather runs of the season. So a few years ago (what can I say? I'm a hardhead), I finally threw in the towel and decided that rather than fight the process that was crucial to being able to enjoy running for the remainder of the balmy summer season, I would make the most of it. 

So here's the deal. If you're training in temperatures above 60 degrees, you'll need to adjust your pace to compensate for the heat: If it’s in the 60s, add at least 5 seconds per mile; in the 70s, add at least 10 seconds per mile; and in the 80s, add at least 15 seconds per mile. And if you're running in the 90s (who does that right?), you'll need to do way more than just adjust your pace. You'll need to add in some walking breaks. Throw humidity into the mix though, and you'll have to adjust your pace even more. 

If the thought of slowing down has you feeling irritated already (especially if you're enjoying these cool mornings like I am), let me share with you the way I "make the most of it" and how you can too. Decide in advance to smile and embrace the extra time it's going to take you to knock out your daily run by choosing to live in the moment. Simply said, living in the moment means being conscious, aware and in the present with all of your senses. It means not dwelling on the past, nor being anxious or worrying about the future. It means concentrating your attention on the present and focusing on the task at hand. That requires us to give our full attention to what we're doing and let go of our usual expectations about what a training run should look like. Seizing each moment in life allows us to prolong its value and make it more meaningful. I don't know about you but I think periodically taking some time to slow down to be thankful and to reflect on just how great life is, is a good thing. 

So here a few ways you can use this time to live in the moment and reflect on what a blessing it is to run at any temperature: 

• Listen to your surroundings. I mean really listen. This time of year the birds are singing really loud and creation is stirring. Be thankful for the ability to hear. 
• Look closely at your surroundings paying extra attention to nature. I did this on my run yesterday morning and was smiling at all the daisies (my favorite flower) that were popping up. Daisies make me happy and I was thankful for eyes to see them. 
• Close your eyes and take some deep breaths. When was the last time you thanked your Creator for those breaths or for waking up to a new day? Remind yourself that while it might be hot, you're alive to enjoy the run so make the most of it. 
• If you're blessed to live in the country like I am, stop once in a while to take in the beauty of a stream or a new sunrise. If you're not, head to your local park and check out the landscaping and the other great things it has to offer. 
• Grant yourself some grace. Remind yourself that some days you're hot and some days you're not... literally. Every run won't be worthy of having a narrator follow you reporting on your every step but every run will be worthy of being thankful for, for at least one reason or another. Choose to find that reason and at least 10 other blessings to count on your run. 

So there you have it friends. You and I can't stop the heat and humidity from coming but we can stop ourselves from fighting it, a fight that we can't win anyway. Allow yourself some time to acclimate to the tropical weather headed this way and smile knowing that there are indeed benefits that come from slowing down. 

HAPPY RUNNING!

Prayer has power

"For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ," Philippians 1:19 NKJV

In an article posted by NBC news Sunday titled, "Man dies after completing Brooklyn half-marathon," the following was reported: A 32-year-old man died after running 13.1-miles to complete the Brooklyn Half Marathon on Saturday morning. The runner collapsed shortly after crossing the finish line, according to NBC New York. The New York Police Department identified the man as Brooklyn resident David Reichman in a statement to NBC News Sunday. Officers noted that Reichman was unconscious and unresponsive before being taken to a nearby hospital. The New York Fire Department said that staff were on standby at the event when they were alerted to patient in cardiac arrest and rushed him to Coney Island Hospital. A cause of death has not yet been determined. The New York Road Runners confirmed the man's death in a statement to NBC New York. "We are deeply saddened by the passing of a participant following the 2022 RBC Brooklyn Half," the statement said. "Our thoughts and sympathies are with the runner's family and those close to them."

And while this story is extremely sad, what I find even sadder is that a growing majority of people no longer offer to pray for those who are hurting, instead offering only their “thoughts and sympathies” which have absolutely no power to heal or to truly comfort someone. Prayer, on the other hand, as Paul clearly understood has the power to bring deliverance through the “supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ.” That means when you and I pray for people who are grieving for one reason or another, we don’t merely feel sorry for them but beseech the Lord to provide for their needs knowing that He has all the power to do so.

So don’t discount the power of prayer the way the world does my friend. You might mean well by sending good vibes, thoughts and your sympathies to someone who is hurting and in need of comfort but only intercession to the Father on the behalf of others has the power to change things. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that prayer can move mountains, melt hearts, heal the broken and comfort the hurting. Cause us to love others so much Lord that our natural reaction to their distress would be to earnestly pray for them rather than to merely offer words that have no power. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Refuse to give up

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7 NIV

"Well... how'd it go?” I asked my dear friend Rebecca as soon as I answered her call Saturday afternoon anticipating a full race recap. "It was absolutely brutal," she replied and then went on to describe her experience at the Berryman trail marathon that morning. "It was so dark in the woods because of the storms that I really needed a headlamp. The rain and the wind were torrential. At one point we could feel the lightning in our feet and there were several downed trees because of the storm. You're right when you told me that it was super technical too. There were lots of roots and rocks and I fell a couple of times." "Oh my,"  I responded knowing first hand that difficulties are just a part of trail running. "Long story short," Rebecca went on to relay, "I received my first DNF, something I hoped I would never do." Sensing my friend's disappointment, I said, "Welcome to the club! I know you don't want to hear this but every runner will eventually experience at least one DNF." And then we both had a good laugh when I said, "Great job on getting your's out of the way." 

And you know, while a DNF (Did Not Finish) is not something a runner necessarily wants to get, it's something every runner who runs for a lifetime will get, it's just the nature of running long distances for long periods of time. The same is true in our spiritual lives. Consider the life of Paul who in 2 Timothy boldly declared, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." You can be sure this didn't mean Paul won every fight. In fact, there were times in his life when it appeared that Paul had acquired a DNF--like the time he was stoned and left for dead outside of Lystra or when he failed to win over all the people by his preaching at Iconium. But this is the deal.... Paul always got up and Paul always pressed on, just as you and I need to. We will face persecution, we will face trials, we will grow weary from the battle, and we will even fall sometimes... but we WILL finish the final race if we, like Paul, refuse to give up. 

So no matter what you're facing today my friend or how many battles you've already lost, your race can only be counted as a Did Not Finish if you bow out short of the final finish line. There are hundreds of runs along your “race” that will be difficult and even seemingly impossible to complete. But keep getting up and keep pressing on until the end. It will be so worth it!

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that this race to the finish will not be easy. Knowing that, give us strength for the battle that lies ahead, grit in the face of our failures, and the determination to press on until the day we finally enter into our final resting place and spend eternity with You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

The truth always wins

“For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be made known and brought to light.” Luke 8:17 BSB

In a sad turn of events for runner Shelby Houlihan, who has been actively appealing the doping ban she received in 2020, Runner's World reported the following Wednesday: Shelby Houlihan, the American record holder in the 1500 and 5,000 meters who is serving a four-year suspension from track after a failed drug test, wrote on Instagram that she lost the appeal of her suspension to the Swiss Federal Tribunal. Houlihan, 29, said her ban will be upheld. She will be eligible to compete again on January 13, 2025, when she will be almost 32. She will miss the World Championships in 2022 and 2023 and the Olympic Games in 2024, but she would be eligible for the 2025 World Championships, should she qualify. She blamed the positive test on tainted pork from a burrito she bought at a food truck, and she continues to maintain her innocence. In the Instagram post on May 18 announcing she lost her appeal, she wrote, “I was told from the start that it was a long shot; it’s extremely hard to overturn these cases and I shouldn’t get my hopes up. I had to try anyway. I had to fight for myself, my career, and my reputation because I am innocent. The truth hasn’t won here and that’s devastating.”

And you know, when it comes to the truth, the Bible tells us that “there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be made known and brought to light.” This means everything that you and I say and do will one day be revealed. Every lie we have ever spoken will be exposed and every truth that was said to be a lie will be vindicated. Every sin, no matter how hard a person tried to hide it or justify it, will be laid bare and displayed for what it is. For that reason then, we can definitely declare that the truth always wins.  

So knowing that the light will expose even the deepest and darkest of our secrets, let us choose to live in such a righteous way that we have no fear that our words or deeds might be revealed my friend. This will not only allow us to live free from fear but to live full of joy and on fire for Christ. 

Heavenly Father, we thank You for who You are, for forgiving us when we go astray, and for reminding us that we will all be accountable one day for the things we did and didn’t do. In light of that, help us to remember that we have everything we need to live a righteous life through You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen  

Happy Running!!!

There is joy in His presence

“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11 ESV

Like most runners, I felt like winter lasted forever and was super excited for the added sunshine and warmth I knew would accompany Spring. I absolutely love running outside right now! And as I changed out of my running clothes early yesterday morning after a glorious run filled with praise and worship that left me smiling from ear to ear, I couldn’t help but laugh knowing that my love of Spring running was beginning to show. “It’s painfully obvious that I have been spending time in the sun,” I thought to myself as I laughed. My new leg tan began where my shorts ended and stopped at my ankle socks, my left wrist has a one inch white stripe where my Coros watch sits and my shoulders show off various tank top and sports bra lines. All this combined with some new freckles popping out on my face say to the world, “This girl has been spending time outside.” 

And you know, while our physical appearance can certainly send a message to those around us, so can our spiritual attitude; attitudes that benefit from spending time with Jesus. You see, without Jesus our happiness is dependent on our circumstances which will cause us to have mood swings. When things are going good, we’re happy—when life doesn’t go as planned we’re not. But as the psalmist declared, “in your presence there is fullness of joy.” And the best part? You and I can be in Jesus’ presence at all times because the Holy Spirit lives inside us, which means we can remain joyful at all times and in all circumstances. Not just joyful though, but over-the-top exuberant, bubbly and cheerful. Do you just love that or what? 

So don’t limit spending time with Jesus to a Sunday service or your early morning runs my friend. Continually stay in His presence at all times through prayer, mindful gratitude, and meditation, continually conversing with Him as you would a friend. This will bring you so much joy that people can’t help but say, “That person has to be on fire for Jesus! There’s no other way they can be that happy.” 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that fullness of joy is only found in You. Thank You also for making the path of life known to us Lord and for the eternal pleasures that await every believer. Cause our hearts to overflow with this unexplainable joy to the point people not only know we’ve been spending time with You but want to spend time with You as well. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Break Down the Barriers

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about how finding ways to break down common running or walking barriers can help you make it to the finish line. 

But first, check out this story Denver 7 published on Monday titled, "Double amputee Denver Colfax Marathon runner breaks barriers." 

Every marathon runner has their own reason behind taking on the challenge. One runner made his way through the Denver metro area Sunday morning, participating in the Denver Colfax Marathon and breaking barriers for those living with disabilities. Major Sgt. Cedric King is a double leg amputee and retired military veteran. He lost both of his legs when he stepped on an explosive device in Afghanistan about 10 years ago. Despite what he’s been through, he’s become an endurance athlete, motivational speaker and author. He's also involved with Achilles International, a nonprofit that breaks down barriers to start the line for people with disabilities. He said his faith, friends and family have helped him push through. “I lost both my legs in Afghanistan. Life at that moment was tough. It's made me so much stronger. It's allowed me to see the other parts of life as a little bit easier than it would be had I not gone through this experience," King said. King said he ran in the Boston Marathon less than two years after losing his legs. Since then, he’s completed 13 full marathons and six half marathons.

Wow right? Wow indeed! So in the spirit of breaking down obstacles standing in the way of reaching the finish line of that race you've been dreaming about (whether it be a 5k, 10k or even a full marathon) let us look to Cedric (who lets nothing stop him) as the example to follow as we examine  five of the most common fitness barriers I've seen in my many years of coaching. 

1. I'll never be able to run. You don't have to! This is one barrier that's easily overcome. Walk instead! Find a race that has a generous cut off time and won't leave you feeling pressured. And believe me, these types of races are everywhere. Walking and speed-walking distances from the 5k to the marathon have become so common that most races will allow time for a person to finish. This is especially wonderful because not every one can run or even wants to run. Race Directors all across the United States have been watching this trend for a while (me included) and a growing majority of them have made changes to accommodate those athletes that prefer walking and need extra time to finish. 

2. I don't have enough time to train. This is one excuse that I've heard more times than I care to count. I've said it before and I'll say it again... a person will make time for what's important to them, plain and simple. So if fitting exercise into your life is important (and I hope it is because it will benefit you in more ways than one), try some time swaps. 

- At least 3 times a week, trade an hour of your TV time for time on the treadmill or outside walking or running. Gradually make more swaps until you're on your way to meeting that race goal we talked about earlier.
- Are you an avid reader? Try swapping that paper book for an audio one so you can walk or run while listening.

- Set your alarm a little earlier and trade an hour of sleep for an hour of exercise. Better yet, trade an hour of nightly leisure time to hit the hay an hour earlier and you won't lose any sleep at all. 

3. I'm embarrassed or self conscious about the way I look when I'm exercising. Let me assure first that you're not alone! Many people feel too self-conscious to run and worry about what they look like. The reality is that most people see runners, of every shape and size, on the roads or in the park and look at them with admiration wishing they were in those shoes! It's true! But hey if you're still saying, "That's all good but I don't want people to see me, try these tips. 

- Run or walk early in the morning before the rest of the world is up. It’s a great time to run as you will have the roads or trails to yourself and won’t have to wait for traffic when crossing the road or need to think about how the car drivers see you.
- Run or walk on a treadmill. Some people find the gym environment more friendly than out on the roads or you could invest in your own treadmill and run at home until you have built your confidence.

- Run or walk with a friend that you trust. There's just something about exercising with someone else that makes a person feel less self conscious. 

4. I'm too old. To this barrier, I say NEVER!!! And I'm sure 95-year-old Colleen Milliman would agree. This runner, who didn't step foot on a track until 2017, just set a new 95+ World Record for the mile of 13:46:13. About being too old, Milliman said, "Most of the time people think they are too old at 60 or 70 and they stop doing things. Well, I guess I’m selfish and I don’t like to feel old. I stay active and I laugh at myself a lot.” So no matter your age get out there!!!! 

5. I don't have a clue how to get started. A simple Google search can point you in the right direction. Look for a local running group so you can get plugged into a family of like-minded people that will help you succeed. Check with your local gyms or specialty running stores as well to see what kind of training plans they might have or can refer you to. Most everyone in the fitness industry can give you tips on how to get started or point you to a person or organization who can. And if your goal is a half marathon, trail run, or full marathon, I have great news for you! The Bass Pro Fitness Series training groups will be starting up very soon!!!!! These can be done with the group or on your own.

So there you have it friends. Identify those barriers in your way and then find ways to break them down so you can make it to the finish line. There's no better time to start training for that goal you've been dreaming about than today!

Happy Running!!!

Handle the Truth correctly

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15 ESV

In an article published last week by Runners World titled, “Here’s How to Correct Your Posture So You Can Run Better,” the writer addressed the question, “Why should runners pay attention to correcting their posture?” before addressing the “how”. Runners who sit all day without intermittently getting up (once an hour is recommended) may start to develop stiffness in the hamstrings, hip flexors, hip joints, thoracic (or upper) spine, and pectorals (chest muscles). This can make your dynamic movements—such as lunges, overhead presses, push-ups, and rows—less effective. “Specifically for running, sitting or standing in compromised positions over many hours and months on end can affect the lengthening of the spine and the mobility of the hip. This can affect the push-off phase of your gait, make arm swing inefficient, and cause instability of the trunk due to malignant [positioning] of the pelvis and rib cage, which will affect diaphragm function,” Mena says. Translation: You become a lot less efficient on the run, and it can even mess with your breathing.

And you know, while we we would all do well to pay attention to our physical posture, as believers we should be pay even more attention to our spiritual posture by putting in the work necessary to ensure that we can stand up straight with our heads held high on the day our work is examined with “no need to be ashamed”. You see, you and I are charged with the task of “rightly handling the word of truth” and will only be “approved” by God when we correctly explain Scripture which requires us working hard to know it, to examine it, and to discover what the Bible means in its’ entirety; being unwilling to compromise on the Truth by picking out bits and pieces of it to fit a narrative or justify a sin.

So “do your best to present yourself to God as one approved” my friend. Be unashamed to preach the Truth no matter the consequences. Look up and be bold, remembering that we are living for the approval of God and not man.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that there is a wrong way and a right way to handle the “word of truth.” Cause us to always seek the right way no matter how unpopular that might be so that no one is led astray. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Wait expectantly

“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:8 NIV

“You made it! You finally made it!” came the shout of the little boy on the playground near the finish line of the unplanned 5k my friends and I found ourselves running early Saturday morning alongside this young lad and his family; a kid who was now smiling from ear to ear. “We sure did!” I yelled back as I laughed over his genuine excitement to see us. “It took you guys more than an hour,” he said looking down at us from the piece of equipment he was playing on. “It took my mom 58 minutes but it only took me 28 minutes and some change,” he went on to proudly boast. “Oh my,” I said smiling even bigger as I glanced at his mom who was also smiling. “You sure beat us!” I jokingly replied, not feeling the need to explain the reason for our tardiness. We had actually done a six-mile loop to get in more mileage on our quest to complete a half-marathon and had stumbled across the free 5k by accident and jumped in for some fun. Expecting everyone to be done and gone when we got back, it made my heart super happy to see someone so glad to see us; someone that was waiting expectantly for the last people to complete the race. Do you just love that or what?

And you know, when it comes to waiting expectantly for someone, Paul, in a letter to Timothy, said, “Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” Paul was longing for the appearance of Jesus as every believer should be! He didn’t know how long it would take to see Him, nor did Paul care. He would continue to expectantly wait and watch for the return of his Savior. Which would be the time Paul could finally declare that his race was complete. Oh may that be the attitude of every Christian today.

So always keep this in my my friend.... Jesus is coming back very very soon. No one knows the exact day or the hour but we do know this... when the things Jesus told us must happen before He returns are happening in real time as they are right now, it's time to look up for our redemption draws near. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we need to be expectantly awaiting Your return, knowing it could happen at any moment and in the twinkling of an eye. Lord cause us to have a sense of urgency to share this Good News with others that they might be so ready for your return that they would have a deep longing that can be quenched with nothing short of your Presence. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

God defines our identity

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light." 1 Peter 2:9 ESV

“Two months ago, I would have said being a runner was my identity. I lived, ate, and breathed it. I ran every day and my next race was rarely more than a week away. But we are human beings, not human doings. Running is what I did, not who I was. I may never be able to run again. I’m far from assuming that’s the case, but I’ve had to consider the possibility. I’ll still have value, still have purpose if I never take another step without limping.” Those were the words posted by my dear friend Ken Fattmann yesterday who, after suffering a stroke back in March, found his life changed in a way he could never have anticipated or imagined. He, like many other runners who have ever suffered an injury or illness that left them unable to run (me included) for any length of time, has realized that his true identity is not defined by what he can do but by who he is.

And who Ken is, is much more than what anyone can see by looking at him. You see, Ken is a person of great and infinite value that is beyond measure. His value is not based on anything he can do though, but on the One who lives inside of him. His true identity, as is the identity of every believer, is found in Christ who declares us to be “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession...” Do you get that? We are “special” in God’s eyes no matter what the world thinks of us or how it defines our value. We are so valued in fact that Jesus died and rose again for the forgiveness of our sins. That means when you and I received His sacrifice as a gift, we instantly became His. This is who we are and nothing can ever change that. 

So no matter how you may feel today, your identity in your loving Father is who you are for all eternity my friend. In Him you have incomparable value and an eternal purpose. There’s nothing you could ever accomplish to make Him love you more and nothing you could ever do to make Him love you less. You are His special possession.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we are Your chosen children. Help us to see ourselves as you do Lord so that we would not listen to the lies of the enemy when he tells us that we aren’t good enough, strong enough, or smart enough or whispers the million other lies he wants us to believe. May we always remember that our identity is found in You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Run for an eternal reward

“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” 1 Corinthians 9:25 NIV

In a feel-good story published by ABC13News on Tuesday, it was reported that Connor Brown, who despite having four podium finishes and is considered to be one of the best distance runners in the state in 1A, left without a single medal according to Swain head coach Ian Roper. Instead, his bounty hung from the neck of teammate JoJo Bjerkness.“To see a kid like Connor who's worked hard all season, who put himself in a position to be the conference runner of the year, and had worked so hard to get to that point and then turn around and see JoJo looking for his medal and just selflessly say, 'Hey you can have mine,'" Roper trailed off. "Not going to lie, it brought a tear to my eye. Bjerkness is a member of the Maroon Devils track team who lives with Down Syndrome. He goes through the workouts and competes in the meets.” “He was over there, he was over there looking for medals - Coach Chatham was handing them out - and he was looking for his," explained Brown. "He got a bunch of PRs and I just thought he deserved a little something. All the hard work, all the winning - it's nothing without having guys like JoJo," said Brown. "I may not remember every race, but I'll remember JoJo the rest of my life." And I have no doubt that JoJo will remember Connor Brown the rest of his life as well.

I don't know about you but I just love that story. What I love about it most though is that young Connor already learned something that most people who have lived a lifetime never do.... at the end of the day, people matter more than possessions. Yet the majority of us work to reap temporal rewards rather than eternal ones. You see, just as Connor so wisely alluded to, people will never remember our finish times, what races we ran, or what trophies we won which are only crowns “that will not last.” But they will remember our acts of kindness and selfless service; acts that could cause them to accept Christ as their Savior reaping eternal rewards and crowns "that will last forever."  

So knowing the impact our every day actions can have on those around us, let us love others in ways that show the love of Jesus my friend. Let us love people more than our possessions remembering that people are the only thing we can take with us to heaven. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us what it means to love people more than possessions by leaving all the treasures heaven had to offer to come to this world with nothing to die for "people" who didn't love you back. Lord, help us to love others in this same way so that they would see the love of You in us and be inspired to come to the foot of the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Mind Over Matter

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about the 40% rule, something I knew nothing about until 2017, and how adopting it can allow you to break through every obstacle and achieve the impossible. 

So we've all heard the term "mind over matter" right? But what does it mean and what does it look like? Collins Dictionary has this to say about it... You can use the expression mind over matter to describe situations in which a person seems to be able to control events, physical objects, or the condition of their own body using their mind. And to see what "mind over matter" looks like in real time we need only look to the example of Navy SEAL David Goggins who has inspired countless athletes (me included) to muster up strength they never knew they had to press on to the finish line. 

Luke and me well before the wheels fell off

My initial story of this “rule” that I’ve now incorporated into all aspects of my life started around mile 70 of the 2017 Prairie Spirit 100 mile run, when the wheels on the bus completely fell off. Completely! I don't know how it happened and I never saw it coming. I was on fire, full of energy and running well, but something happened between between miles 67 and 69 and I was done. There was no gas left in the tank and the threshold of my pain endurance had been met. My feet felt like they were on fire (later found out that I was allergic to the latex in my socks and my feet were actually burning) and my mind screamed, "STOP!" Thankfully, my son Luke who was there to pace me from mile 70 on explained the phenomena known as the "40 Percent Rule." I listened very intently to the words this young man spoke and then told my mind to "SHUT UP!" After some much needed coffee and a few pieces of bacon, Luke and I headed out together and managed to keep moving for another 10 hours (after I thought I was COMPLETELY done) to cross the finish line just in under 24 hours. I'm telling you this rule works! The 40% Rule is the idea that when our mind is telling us to quit, that our body has actually only used up 40% of it’s potential. Think of this in terms of a long run; how many times have you been deep in a long run that you had to grind out when your mind began telling you to slow down or that it’s time to stop? According to Goggins, at this point you and I are only 40% used up – and we are still capable of more. Goggins explained that this extra 60% doesn’t come from the mind or from the body; it comes from our will.

But just don't take it from me, check out what Peter Economy wrote in an article published by Inc. : Mind over matter. Is the challenge you're taking on physically challenging or emotionally difficult? Even if it is, could it be that your obstacle is also mostly mental? Jesse Itzler, the co-founder of Marquis Jet, talks about mental toughness in his book, Living with a SEAL. While running a 100-mile race as part of a six-person relay team, Itzler met a Navy SEAL who was running the entire race by himself. Running the race solo was a massive feat on its own--and then Itzler came to realize that the SEAL was running despite a damaging set of circumstances. Recalls Itzler, I've never seen anything like it. And during the race, I kept an eye on him and around mile 70--he weighed probably 260 pounds, which is quite large for an ultra runner--he had broken all the small bones in both of his feet and had kidney damage and he finished the race. After the race was over, Itzler hired the SEAL to live with him and his family in an effort to learn more about mental toughness. "I thought that he would be a great way to get in good shape," Itzler says, "but also to just mix up my routine and get better."Who was the SEAL who came to live with Itzler? None other than Ironman triathlete David Goggins, world record holder for most pull-ups done in 24 hours and finisher of the Badwater 135, a 135-mile race in Death Valley (Goggins finished in fifth place). Not only did Goggins run the ultra-marathon with broken bones and while weighing over 200 pounds, but he did so while suffering from an endurance-limiting atrial septum defect caused by a hole in the wall of his heart.While Goggins was living with Itzler, he taught him the "40 percent rule": "When your mind is telling you you're done, you're really only 40 percent done." Itzler then explained how Goggins showed Itzler that he could actually do 100 pull-ups, despite nearly quitting after completing only eight.

So there you have it friends. If you're lacking the motivation and will to train today, try living by the 40% rule. Train your mind to ignore what your body says can't be done. Challenge yourself to dig deeper and to ignore the mental limits you place on yourself. Remember that pain isn't something you want to avoid all the time because when we continuously subject ourselves to it, we only grow stronger. As American runner and coach Joe Henderson once said, "Your toughness is made up of equal parts of persistence and experience. You don't so much outrun your opponents as outlast and outsmart them, and the toughest opponent of all is the one inside your head." 

Happy Running!!!

We are Real Family

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.'" John 13:34,35 ESV

On May 7, NBC4 out of Columbus, Ohio aired a story that read, "Runners all across Columbus are mourning the loss of a special member in their community. Jason Zarate was going for his morning run down Avery Road in Dublin on Wednesday when he was hit by a car and killed. The people close to him said they don’t want the community to remember Zarate for this tragedy but instead for the impact he left. Jason Zarate’s friend Erin Arnett said he was the kind of person everyone wants in their life. 'It doesn’t matter if you are fast, if you are slow, if you are overweight, if you’ve got a disability – there is a place in the running community for you, and Jason can be the biggest testament of that,'  Arnett said. Arnett, who described Zarate as an overcomer, encouraging and loyal, said the community is at a loss for words." Arnett went on to say that she wasn't sure what their "run family" will be like without Jason. Zarate did not have a spouse or children. Arnett said their ‘run family” was their real family.

And you know, while the world might define family as those persons you and I are related to by blood, the Bible tells us that all those who believe in God are family, meaning that the church is one big household. And this isn't just wonderful news for people who may not have a spouse or children but for all believers. You see, this "family" is commanded to "love one another" just as Jesus loved us. Which means that one of the many benefits of being part of a church family is being loved in a way that is different from how people in the secular world love. This love is sacrificial, unconditional, and given freely without regard to a person's worth, making our church family "real family." 

So if you're part of a church family today, count yourself blessed my friend. These are the people that will help you in your time of need, pray with you when you're down, rejoice with you when there's cause for celebration, and love you regardless of the circumstances. If you don't, I would highly suggest that you find a church to be a part of so that you can experience the love, fellowship, and care of a "real family." 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that family of God is not limited by blood ties but made by the blood of Christ that unifies all those who believer in Him. Lord, remind us how important it is to be part of a church family so that we would not neglect it, especially as the end days draw near and we become more in need of the fellowhip, encouragement and accountability that this real family can provide. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!! 

Share the Comfort

“He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” 2 Corinthians 1:4 NLT

During some downtime at the aid-station I was blessed to be working with friends on Saturday morning, my friend Jody (who is a fellow believer and ultrarunner) and I jokingly said that our aid stations were always the best because we unfailingly recruited seasoned runners to work them. “We just know what they need,” I remembered her saying matter-of-factly. “We can read their body language, faces and expressions as they approach to anticipate what we need to say to them or do for them.” I couldn’t agree with her more and so added, “Because we’ve been there girl! We’ve been tired. We’ve been in the struggle. We’ve been in the moments when we wanted to give up. And we all remember how important the aid station workers were, many times making the difference in whether we gave up or pressed on by their actions and/or words.”

And you know, when it comes to providing aid and comfort to someone that might be struggling and in need of an encouraging word and/or deed to press on, the Bible tells us that God “comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” This means that when we give back to others, the trials and troubles we were allowed to experience were not in vain. Not only did we ourselves get to feel the amazing comfort that only God can provide in these times which strengthened our faith, but can pass on that same comfort to a person experiencing the exact thing we did, thus strengthening their faith. Is that amazing or what?

So if you’re in a trial my friend, hang tight. Relish in the solace and support the Lord is giving you at this moment knowing that one day you can give that same consolation to someone else. And if you have an opportunity to encourage someone to press on right now, whether in life or in racing, seize it! You’ll not only bless them by doing so but be blessed yourself.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that troubles and trials always serve a purpose for those who love You and are called according to your purpose. Lord, please help us to be patient as we endure them and to be ever joyful when we are able to help others going through the same thing. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!