Believers Have Family Everywhere

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” John 13:34 NKJV

As I ran the streets of Hinesville, Georgia Saturday morning, I began counting my many blessings. “Lord, thank You for allowing me to be here to celebrate my daughter’s birthday. Thank you for my dear husband who joyfully made the long drive from Missouri to make it happen. Thank You for the sunshine and the sound of the birds singing. Thank You mostly, though, for how you’ve changed my life Lord. You have been so good to me.” As I traveled along a little further, I had to thank Him once again for being so good to me. All the twists and turns I had taken at the prompting of the Holy Spirit led me to the Westside Baptist Church of Hinesville, and answered my prayer to find a place to worship. “Thank You Lord for leading me here,” I said out loud. “I’m excited to be worshiping with my sweet Larry and our brothers and sisters in Christ tomorrow.” 

And, you know, I had to smile as my husband and I walked in the doors of the church on Sunday. By the way our brothers and sisters greeted us and hugged us, an outsider would have assumed that we had been members of that church for years. But that’s what sets the body of Christ apart. We follow the commandment Jesus gave us to “love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” You see, God demonstrated his own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Which means that the affection we are to “demonstrate” towards fellow believers should be a love so deep and instant that it considers fellow followers as family members, rather than merely friends. This is the self-sacrificial devotion that has the power to inspire the lost to seek this otherworldly love for themselves. 

So, knowing that the love of Christ has no limits, seek to love your fellow believers in the same way my friend. And remember that, although you might not go to the same church as another believer, you are a part of the church as a whole and, therefore, part of the whole family of Christ no matter where you go. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for commanding us to love fellow believers in a way that shows the world that we are your disciples and gives them a family wherever they might travel. Help us to show the brotherly affection to one another as You have commanded us to Lord that the lost would be compelled to seek being a member of the family of Jesus Christ. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Be an Example to Follow

“At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.” Acts 7:57-58 NIV

In a story published by the Marietta Daily Journal over the weekend, it was reported that “Marist senior Tommy Latham became the latest to achieve the Holy Grail of distance running after becoming the first Georgia high school runner to break the 4-minute barrier when he ran 3 minutes, 59.79 seconds at the Marist Mile on March 28. Achieving a sub-4-minute mile has been a dream of Latham’s since he began his running career in the sixth grade, seeking to join the other 1,755 runners who have achieved the milestone since Bannister became the first to do it in 1954.” It’s no wonder it’s been a dream of Latham’s since he started running… Ever since Roger Bannister became the first runner to run a sub-4-minute mile in 1954, it has been the dream of runners around the world to accomplish that goal.

And, you know, as this story shows, it’s amazing how many people will step out to do something worthwhile when someone first paves the way—showing not only that it can be done, but that it’s an excellent pursuit. Consider the story of Stephen who was the first martyr of the Christian faith. Among the crowd witnessing Stephen’s death was a young man named Saul, later known as Paul, who would become one of the most influential apostles there ever was, writing many books of the New Testament and influencing millions of people to accept Jesus as their Savior. Yet, Saul initially approved of Stephen’s execution, giving his stamp of approval to the witnesses laying their coats at his feet. But Paul later became a faithful follower of Christ when he discovered the eternal benefits of giving his life to Jesus—thanks in part to the example of Stephen who was willing to die for his faith. Paul eventually followed Stephen’s example and became a martyr himself because of his love for the Savior, and now serves as an example to us all of what it means to fight the good fight, to finish the race, and to keep the faith. 

So, knowing that we better impact our world for the kingdom when we boldly walk out our faith, vow to live on fire for Jesus Christ each and every day my friend. Make knowing Him, serving Him, and leading the lost to Him your greatest pursuit no matter what it costs and you’ll be an example for others to follow. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the Bible that gives us the courage to be bold through the examples of the faithful believers that have gone before us and have served You with their whole hearts and reaped eternal benefits from doing so. Help us Lord to follow these examples and to be an example to those around us. Help us to live on fire for You Lord. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

There Will Never Be a Bill

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

In a story titled “A Runner Was Hit by a Car, Then by a Surprise Ambulance Bill” published late last month, the following was reported: Jagdish Whitten was on a run in July 2023 when a car hit him as he crossed a busy San Francisco street. Whitten, then 25, described doing “a little flip” over the vehicle and landing in the street before getting himself to the curb. Concerned onlookers called an ambulance. But Whitten instead had friends pick him up and take him to a nearby hospital, the Helen Diller Medical Center, operated by the University of California-San Francisco. “I knew that ambulances were expensive, and I didn’t think I was going to die,” he said. Whitten said doctors treated him for a mild concussion, a broken toe, and bruises. As he sat in a hospital bed, attached to an IV and wearing a neck brace, Whitten said, doctors told him that because he had suffered a traumatic injury, they had to send him by ambulance to the city’s only trauma center, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital. After a short ambulance ride, Whitten said, emergency room doctors checked him out, told him he had already received appropriate treatment, and released him. Then the bill came.

And, you know, when it comes to getting a surprise bill for lifesaving services rendered, the Bible is clear that it is by grace that we have been saved, through faith—and this is not from ourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. Do you get the enormity of that? Jesus Christ died to save us from our sins and offers eternal life to all those who choose to accept Him as their Savior. This is the greatest lifesaving care a person could ever receive and yet we will never receive a surprise bill for it! Think of it as grace being the ambulance that transports believers to heaven… and yet it’s free. Does that make you smile or what?

So, if you have not made the decision to follow Jesus with your whole heart, do it today my friend. Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed and there will be no second chances once you breathe your last breath. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the death, burial, and resurrection of your Son, Jesus Christ, that paid the price for our ascension to Heaven. Help us to be so grateful for this gift of grace that we can’t help but praise You with our lips and with our lives. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Continual Praise is a Measure of Faith

“For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth. From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother’s womb. I will ever praise you.” Psalm 71:5-6 NIV

In an article published by Runner’s World last month, the writer shared a “A strong case for continuing to run as you get older” saying “ For a variety of reasons, VO₂ max naturally decreases as you get older. Fortunately, athletes are more likely to minimize this decline through consistent and purposeful training.” Why does VO2 max matter? Of all the available health and fitness metrics, VO₂ max is one of the most important. “VO₂ max is the amount of oxygen that you can breathe in, transport to the muscle, and utilize during maximal exertion and aerobic exercise,” says Todd Buckingham, Ph.D., exercise physiologist and visiting professor at Grand Valley State University in Michigan. He explains that, besides being an indicator of overall fitness, it’s also a “gold standard” measurement of an athlete’s ability to perform well in an endurance event; essentially, the higher your VO₂ max, the greater your potential. “Once your VO₂ max gets to a certain level, other things like lactate threshold and exercise efficiency come into play. But VO₂ max is the first step in determining performance,” Buckingham says. Not surprisingly, researchers found that higher rates of cardiorespiratory fitness, as determined by VO₂ max, were associated with longer lives.

And, you know, while VO2 max is a measurement of a person’s physical potential or capacity to continually improve and perform well, constant and endless praise is a measurement of our spiritual potential. Why? Because, as you and I get older, the trials of life, the worries of each day, and the hardships of the aging process begin to stack up. And as they do, our faith can decrease. But choosing to praise God through it all shows a continued trust in the Lord to provide for our needs and to fight our battles. This is what the psalmist was alluding to when he said, “For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth. From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother’s womb. I will ever praise you.” This declaration was the psalmist’s way of saying that God had shown Himself faithful from the beginning of his life, so he would appeal to and trust in God’s continued care until the end of his life. And because of the confidence the psalmist had in the Lord, he would praise Him until the end of days. 

So, knowing that the greater your faith the greater your potential to bring Him glory, choose to trust in the Lord each and every day my friend. And choose to offer up a sacrifice of praise to the One who has promised to walk with us from the womb to the tomb and then usher us into heaven where the praise will never end. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the God who can be trusted from beginning to end. Help us to inspire the lost to seek You by the way we praise You no matter the circumstances we are faced with. Help us to fully trust You at every stage of our lives Lord that we might reach our full potential and meet the “gold standard” of spiritual fitness. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Resilience will Get You to the Finish Line

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let’s get started by talking about resilience. This is a subject we’ve talked about before, but one that bears repeating in light of the crazy weather we’ve been having. There have been torrential downpours, floods, cold, and high winds all across the great state of Missouri and beyond. Which is the very reason developing the capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties is so crucial for every runner. Just ask those runners who ran the Bass Pro Marathon last year in the downpour! And don’t even get me started on the massive amounts of mud that we encountered at Dogwood Canyon the following week! Only those runners who were trained in resilience crossed the finish line. 

But whether you’re a long distance runner, or prefer sticking to 5k or 10k races, developing resilience will help you in more ways than one. As Dylan McGuire can attest to. You may have seen him on the Dogwood Canyon course running and/or volunteering but he learned a thing or two about bouncing back over the weekend when race day didn’t go as planned. The flooding in Memphis where his race was held caused the event to be rerouted more than once—and at one point shut down for several hours as the Wolf River floods pounded them with rain and wind and the waters continued to rise. 

His girlfriend Jill Brockman (who frequently paces the Bass Pro Half and also runs and volunteers at Dogwood Canyon) reported that Dylan and his pacer “got caught in a crazy wind and lightning storm and we had about 20 people in the pavilion waiting on him to run down the hill cheering for him and we thought he was gonna get blown off the face of the Earth.” But despite all that, Dylan kept going. 

And… he lived to give a race report that I hope inspires you to keep going no matter what your training and/or race day holds: 

I will never be a fastie and I don’t mind being a lastie! Mother Nature tried her best to keep me from the finish line! My stomach tried to keep me from the finish line! But my NASCAR level pit crew somehow kept the wheels on and oil in the engine! I will never be able to thank my crew enough. They pulled me through! I loved the miles I got to share with them.

To my Baby! I love you so very much and thank you so much for everything you did for me (he was referring to Jill of course).

Thank you to everybody back home for checking in on me. 

To the Viper RD and volunteers thank you from the bottom of my heart. No matter the weather, you put on an outstanding event! I loved it! 

The weather was everything you hoped against and then some. 

My feet are toast! I am shaken and not stirred!

This was my first 100 and I didnt know how it would make me feel. I’ve done many hard things in my life. This one here might have taken the cake as the hardest. I’m not saying it’s a one and done. I loved the feelings of embracing the suck again and pushing through it.”

#122 out!”

See the positive mindset here? Learning to keep the joy and humor in the midst of pain and setback, as this story shows, makes all the difference in making it to the finish line. As does having positive people (that’s Jill on the left) in your corner cheering you on. This is what resilience looks like! And this is why every runner needs it. 

And there you have it friends. Cultivating a mindset that chooses to press on when training or race day doesn’t go as planned is not only crucial for finishing a race but for continuing to run at every age… something the Bass Pro Fitness Series strongly encourages. So, no matter what’s in the forecast, get out there and get training friends. Determine beforehand that you will press on the despite the inevitable setbacks that are sure to come. Marathon weekend will be here before you know it and you won’t want to miss it! Happy Running!

We Must Lead the Lost to the Narrow Gate

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” Matthew 7:13-14 NIV

In an interesting story titled “Meet the Seattle runners and walkers who covered every inch of the city,” published Sunday, the writer said “ Among us is a small group of Seattleites who have walked or run the length of all, or most, of the city’s more than 1,600 public streets. They receive no fanfare or civic award. They are runners who accidentally became some of the most qualified tour guides. Over the course of the roughly 3,300-mile journey, they were chased by dogs, chastised by residents and faced with an endless array of sidewalks that ended abruptly. They mark their progress on CityStrides, a website that logs GPS information from running apps like Strava and displays the percentage of streets completed.”

And, you know, as I read that story I couldn’t help but consider the intentionality every one of the athletes that made up that “small group” had. To reach their goal, they walked or ran every inch of the city, mapping out those places they hadn’t reached and going places where they faced danger. This same intentionality is the very thing every believer needs to have to compel them to walk or run every inch of the city they’re in, purposefully serving as a spiritual “tour guide” to guide the lost along the narrow road that leads to the narrow gate. You see, “wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” And how can they find it if no one leads them to it? 

So, strive to be that small group that lives with the intention of preaching the Good News in every inch of the city or town you’re in my friend. It will take time. It will take effort. But it will be worth it in the end when you see the fruits of your labor in the form of “a few” more people finding that narrow gate. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the Word that clearly tells us that the easy way of compromise leads to hell. Help us to grasp this fully so that we would be compelled to cover every inch of our cities with preaching and prayer that none would enter the broad gate on the account that we didn’t warn them. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus amen. 

Happy Running!

Focus on the Journey

“No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” Philippians 3:13-14 NLT

In an interesting story published recently titled “Stop Asking Your Friends ‘What Was Your Time?’ After a Race—and Say This Instead,” the writer said, “ It’s time to reframe the postrace conversation.” The writer went on to say, “When someone tells you they ran a marathon, chances are, your first question is ‘what was your time?’ That’s a totally normal response; a race is measured by the clock. Everyone knows how fast the fastest runners finish, and those times can serve as a reference point by which people, including non-runners, can gauge other performances.” However, “fixating on outcome goals (like what the finish clock says) has a minimal effect on performance. Process goals—or celebrating the little victories along the way—had a much larger effect. To put it simply: Focusing on the journey instead of the end point is proven to be rewarding and it actually leads to better results.”

And, you know, when it comes to focusing on the journey in our spiritual race, Paul was clear that he had not reached the end point but would focus his eyes on this one thing until he did… “Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead,” saying, “I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” Did you get that “us” part, By saying this, Paul reminded all of us that the success of a person’s spiritual race wasn’t measured by a clock but by how faithfully he or she ran the race, not allowing anything to keep them from finishing, no matter how long it took. Furthermore, the measure of success was, once again, not in how quickly Paul finished the race but in that he ran it so well as to receive the heavenly prize that awaited him—and awaits every believer who stays focused on the goal until the end. 

So, don’t get caught up in measuring success as the world does my friend. The journey to the ultimate finish line will be filled with obstacles, hurdles, and pain and it may take a long time to complete. But if you press on as Paul did, you will reach the end and claim the prize. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the examples in the Bible we have to follow that show us that the road to the finish line is never easy. Help us to be those people who never give up, never look back, and never take our eyes off You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Build the Marriage Foundation on Christ

“Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32 BSB

In an email that I received from Ultra Signup yesterday, the question was asked, "ARE YOU A SINGLE ULTRARUNNER?" followed by this description of a new app designed to pair up runners based on their love of the sport: The app you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived! Introducing UltraDating, where you’re guaranteed to find your pacer for life. We know you’ve been using UltraSignup to check the ages of those trail cuties you meet at races. Well, we’ve streamlined the process! With UltraDating, you can now swipe for real single ultrarunners. Filter by UltraSignup rank, preferred race distance, or even “loves long walks through aid stations.” Your sole-mate is just a swipe away. With my curiosity spiked, I clicked on the site and had to laugh at their marketing slogan that read, "Meet singles ready to go the extra mile" and at their depiction of a male and female ultrarunner running together with the man saying, "I'll be your pacer for life." Pretty cute right? 

And, you know, while God designed marriage to be for life (barring biblical exceptions when divorce is permitted), a growing number of marriages (even among believers) don’t make it for a lifetime . Which is the very reason a godly marriage must be based on a mutual love of Jesus Christ because it’s the only foundation that never changes. You see, a marriage based on a mutual love of running, or anything else for that matter, is bound to fail, because nothing in this world stays the same. Running isn’t guaranteed to last. Injuries happen, and time takes the energy of the fittest, which means it’s a foundation built on sand, like everything else besides Christ. Furthermore, it’s only when two people are each focused on knowing Christ, pleasing Christ, and growing more like Christ that they will be able to “be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave” them—something that is crucial to the longevity and prosperity of any marriage. 

So, if you’re considering marriage today, be sure to pick a partner who shares a mutual love of the Savior my friend. And if you’re currently married, be sure to do your part in staying close to Jesus. After all, the closer each marriage partner is to the Lord, the closer they will be to one another. And that’s what will allow them to stay married for a lifetime 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the most important thing that a marriage should be built on is a foundation of Jesus Christ. Help us to model godly marriages Lord so that others would understand the importance of being equally yolked and intent on being kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Consider the Consequences of Rebellion

“Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O LORD.” Psalm 25:7 NLT

In a tragic story titled “Friends remember runner killed in Dunn Co. hit-and-run” published earlier this week, it was reported that a 17-year-old Wisconsin girl appeared in court Monday afternoon, accused of fatally striking a runner with her vehicle and then fleeing the scene. Dunn County Sheriff Kevin Bygd identified the victim of the Saturday morning incident as 54-year-old Ann M. Seidl of Eau Claire. Bygd said in a news release that squads were dispatched just before 7:15 a.m. to a location on Dunn County Highway Y between 330th and 370th Avenue on reports of a body in a ditch. Upon arrival, deputies located a woman - since identified as Seidl - just off the highway with severe injuries. She was declared dead on the scene… Sheriff Bygd says Seidl was wearing bright clothing and a reflective vest and running on the correct side of the highway for greatest visibility when she was struck and killed. Friends describe Ann Seidl as a heartbeat of the Eau Claire running community, kind, funny and supportive to all. A mother of three, she paired up with son Parker - who has Down syndrome - in an organization called Team Triumph that helps athletes with disabilities reach the finish line. 

And, you know, as sad as it is that Ann needlessly lost her life, it’s equally tragic that another young person fell into sin and made a mistake that they will undoubtedly regret the rest of their lives. And while there will be worldly consequences for the young girl’s actions (such as jail time and restitution to the family), there is, thankfully, forgiveness in Christ if she will turn to the Lord as David did—asking Him to forget the rebellious sins of her youth and to remember her in the light of God’s unfailing and merciful love. You see, the Bible is very clear that “if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins” because He is a loving and merciful God—so much so that He not only will forgive and forget a person’s transgressions, but will then purify them from all unrighteousness. 

So, if you’re a young person who’s reading this today, consider the consequences of going astray before rebelling against the One who loves you so much that He would give you rules to keep you on the right path. Adhering to those rules, as this story shows, can keep you from making a poor decision that will only lead to a lifetime of regret and sorrow. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that there are consequences to our sins. Help us to be role models to the youths in our lives Lord, and to teach them the benefits of keeping their eyes on Jesus so they would not make the foolish mistakes so many lost young people do today. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Be Ready for the Unpredictability of Spring

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 unpredictability of spring weather. The temps are all over the place as are the storm warnings. And considering that this is one of the prime running seasons in my humble opinion (second to Fall aka Bass Pro Marathon Season), runners would do well to make the most of spring running by preparing to deal with the unpredictability beforehand. Which can be done by adhering to a few spring running tips.

Without further ado, here are a few spring running tips that will help to have you ready for whatever the season holds:

1. Hydration:

Stay Hydrated:
With warmer weather, it's crucial to stay hydrated before, during, and after your runs. This is especially true as your body adapts to the rising temperatures. 

Practice Hydration Strategies:
Experiment with how you carry water on longer runs, whether it's a water bottle, hydration pack, or using water stations. Think about stashing water along your route. This is a great option when you're running a loop and don't want to carry anything. 

2. Weather Awareness:

Check the Weather:
Spring weather can be unpredictable as this week's forecast shows us, so monitor the forecast and be prepared for potential changes.

Layering:
Opt for lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics that allow you to adjust to changing temperatures. Arm sleeves are always a great option for this time of year as well. 

Gear:
Have a rain jacket, gloves, and a mix of shorts and leggings on hand.

Visibility:
Consider a headlight, LED vest, or reflective vest for early morning or evening runs.

3. Training:

Start Slow: If you're new to running, gradually increase your mileage and intensity to avoid injury and burnout. Stick to the 10% rule that states weekly mileage should not be increased more than 10% each week. 

Build a Strong Base: Focus on consistent, easy runs to build endurance.

Incorporate Interval Training: Add interval training, hill sprints, and strength exercises to improve speed and power.

Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body's signals and take rest days when needed.

Cross-Training: Incorporate cross-training activities like swimming or cycling to reduce the impact on your joints.

4. Foot Gear:

Proper Footwear: Invest in good running shoes that provide adequate cushioning, support, and traction for the terrain you'll be running on. If you'll be running in rain, consider purchasing a pair of Gore-Tex shoes. My personal favorites are the Clifton Gore-Tex. I wore these to pace the 2024 Bass Pro Marathon when the forecasted rain showed up right on time and came out with no blisters and big smile on my face. 

Assess Your Shoes: Check your shoes for wear and tear and replace them when necessary.
5. Other Tips:

Warm-up and Cool-down:
Never skip warm-ups and cool-downs to improve flexibility and blood flow, reducing the risk of strains and stiffness.

Set Goals:
Having a goal, like a race, can provide motivation and help you stay on track. Check out the Bass Pro Shops Fitness Series of Events. You’re sure to find a race that’s just right for you. 

Find a Training Partner:
Having a training partner can make running more enjoyable and help you stay accountable.

Embrace the Change:
Enjoy the longer daylight hours and the beauty of spring.

And there you have it friends. Spring running can be very unpredictable which can work to a runner's advantage by allowing them to experiment with ways to adapt to all conditions remembering that a successful runner needs to train in all conditions to be ready for all conditions. This is what's known as resilience. And the more of that a runner has, the more likely they are to reach the finish line. So, get prepared now to get out there and train with a smile on your face rain or shine. You'll be so glad you did! 

Happy Running!

Help to Share the Cure

“For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin—“ Romans 6:6 NIV

In a story published yesterday by pa media, It was reported that an avid runner will attempt to break the record for the fastest person to run the London Marathon dressed as a traffic cone. Michael Wiggins, 47, from Streatham, south-west London, will run his 18th London Marathon since 1999 and his first in a traffic cone costume as he attempts to break the Guinness World Record (GWR).Mr Wiggins, who works in advertising and post-production, wants to complete the run in three hours and 15 minutes to beat the previous record of three hours and 22 minutes, all while raising money for Prostate Cancer UK.He said he was “shocked” after three of his friends were diagnosed with prostate cancer and hopes his record attempt will encourage more men to talk about their health concerns… He is aiming to raise more than £1,000 for Prostate Cancer UK, a charity funding research into the disease which affects one in eight men, and hopes the money will help towards finding a cure.

Sadly, while prostate cancer will affect one in eight men, the disease of sin will affect one hundred percent of all men and women. Thankfully though, God provided a cure for the condition when He sent Jesus to became the atoning sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. Which means that “our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin.” With the old self dead then, we are not only made free from the disease of sin, but we don’t battle the old self anymore. We simply reckon him as dead. And should live that way. 

So knowing that the cure to the deadly disease of sin is available to all those who choose to accept it, do your part in raising awareness my friend. After all, “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?”

Heavenly Father, thank You for providing a cure for the disease of sin that leads to spiritual death. Help us to be so thankful for this cure that we would be bold in sharing it with the world and compelling the lost to seek Jesus that that they might rid themselves of their old self and be made new. It’s in your precious name e pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Look at the Positives in Your Struggles

“Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;” Romans 5:3 BSB

To say Saturday’s ultra marathon was a challenging one would be an understatement. Having trained in the 30 and 40 degree seasonal morning Missouri weather, I was not prepared for the heat and humidity of Mooresville, Alabama’s Blue Heron Hundred. And although I was praising God for the cloud cover He so graciously provided, a good degree of humidity was still felt, along with high winds and several pop up showers that plagued the runners throughout the entirety of the event (32 hour cutoff). Which is the very reason I wasn’t the only runner who struggled that day. In fact, every distance runner will struggle at some point but not all distance runners will look at struggles in the same light—something that was evident when I crossed the finish after 30 hours of running and stepped up to receive my hard-fought-for belt buckle. “Well I’m glad that’s over with. I finally get to sit down now,” I said jokingly to the Race Director as she passed the reward off to me. “You act like that didn’t hurt at all,” she said as she smiled at my jest. Smiling back I said, “Oh it hurt alright! But if I want to inspire others to run, I’ve learned to look at and share the positives in all my struggles.”

And, you know, when it comes to looking at the positives in every struggle to inspire others to be more like Jesus, Paul said that, as believers, we are to “rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;” You see, struggles or suffering are to be welcomed and appreciated by every believer because of the persistence, determination, tenacity, steadfastness, endurance, and grit they bring about in us. These are character traits that are not only necessary for reaching the finish line of an enduring race, but are crucial to reaching the finish line of our spiritual race. And, unfortunately, these are character traits that are only gained through suffering. 

So, rejoice in your struggles today and every day my friend. Choose to thank God for the good they are producing in you and for walking with you through them. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that there are blessings in all our sufferings and that we never go through them alone. Lord, help us to rejoice when we experience suffering, knowing that it gives us the perseverance to hold firm in our faith and press on when the race gets hard and we feel like giving up. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Do Not Let Your Guard Down

“Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come.” Mark 13:33 NIV

In a story published by the Daily Mail on Tuesday, it was reported that a runner suffered an embarrassing loss after she started celebrating her win too soon, ultimately costing her the first place title. Xiao Fen, 35, was in the lead as she approached the finish line at the Women's Half Marathon in Chongqing, southwest China on Saturday. With a victory seemingly right in front of her, Xiao raised her arms in the air in triumph and appeared to slow down, allowing her rival to zoom past at the last second. Gan Zhifang overtook the runner and sprinted towards victory, crossing the finish line to become the first-place winner of the race. Footage of the Xiao's embarrassing loss quickly went viral on Chinese social media, with the runner saying she was 'disappointed' in the outcome. Xiao said that despite placing second just a few fractions of a second behind Gan, she should not have let her guard down and 'opened the champagne' ahead of time.

Sadly, as this story shows, there can be grave consequences for relaxing your vigilance before you cross the finish line. But, spiritually speaking, the consequences of letting your guard down before crossing the final finish line are gravely eternal. Which is the very reason Jesus, after explaining what the world would be like before his final return, warned the disciples to “Be on guard!” And to “Be alert!” Jesus went to explain, “You do not know when that time will come.” Which meant the disciples were to be prepared at all times—not letting themselves be deceived by false teachers, not letting themselves fall into sin, and faithfully serving the Lord and preaching the Gospel so they would be ready for His return, no matter when it happened.

So, as you look around at our world today, it’s easy to see that the return of Jesus could happen at any moment my friend. So be on guard! Be alert! And keep on running the race until you hear that trumpet blow!

Heavenly Father, thank You for helping us to discern the times by your Word. Help us to understand that we must be ready at all times and that we must urge others to do the same. Help us to be found faithful, watchful, and busy upon your return. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

The Brain can be Retrained

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2 NIV

In an interesting story titled “How marathons change runners’ brains: scans point to surprise energy source,” the following was reported: A fatty substance that insulates the electrical signals transmitted by nerve cells might also be a source of energy for the brain — especially when reserves are running low. This intriguing possibility has been raised by scans of long-distance runners’ brains, taken before and after they ran marathons. The scans suggest that levels of the insulating substance — called myelin — decreased in brain areas involved in motor control and sensory and emotional processing after these gruelling endeavours, only to bounce back to normal within two months…Mustapha Bouhrara, who studies brain imaging and ageing at the US National Institutes of Health in Baltimore, Maryland, said the reduction in myelin lasts for only a short time, so is not concerning. Furthermore, he went on to say that the process teaches the brain how to quickly repair myelin, and “could be very, very beneficial”.

Unfortunately marathons aren’t the only thing that can change a persons brain. Indulging in sinful behaviors can as well. In fact, science has shown that repeated sinful behaviors lead to changes in brain chemistry and reward circuitry—specifically changes in dopamine, oxytocin, and norepinephrine levels, which can reinforce these behaviors. Furthermore, repeating sinful behaviors can train the brain to expect and seek out those bad behaviors, making it harder to resist them and even harder to discern and follow “God’s will” for a person’s life. Which is the very reason the person caught up in those behaviors must first repent, turn back to God, and then retrain their brain—a process that begins by no longer conforming to the pattern of worldly thinking, but transforming the mind with a pattern of godly thinking that comes from reading God’s Word and then meditating on it day and night. This is very, very be beneficial as it sets a person free from the guilt and shame the sinful behaviors caused and keeps the person from returning to “ the pattern of this world.”

 

So, if you’re caught up in a pattern of sin that you don’t think you can break free from, think again my friend. God can not only set you free and restore you upon repentance but can renew your mind as well, giving you a fresh start on life… something that is very, very beneficial to you both now and for eternity. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for providing a way for us to be made righteous when we have strayed. Thank You for the restoration Jesus’ death provided for us and for the renewal of the mind that your Word provides us. Help us to seek your pleasing and perfect will at all times by staying in a right relationship with You and keeping our hearts and minds stayed on You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - If Jellybean can do it You can too

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about motivation. That's something runners talk about all the time right? After all, we can't make it to the finish line if we aren't motivated to step up to the start line. And we won't step up to the start line without the motivation to train. And if motivation can be defined as the reason or reasons one has for acting or behaving in a particular way, then it goes without saying that having a valid reason to run one of the Bass Pro Fitness Series races would motivate a person to begin training... as if these spring temps weren’t enough to get a person out the door (but I digress). 

So what's a valid reason that you’ve  probably never heard of? How about because if Jellybean can do it, you can too? Who's Jellybean you might ask? Why she's the Sacramento region’s smallest ultramarathon runner as reported by The Sacramento Bee.  Jellybean is 6 years old, weighs 9 pounds and fuels on a veterinarian-approved diet of Chipotle Mexican Grill chicken and cheese. This sweet pup is also Fleet Feet Davis’ unofficial mascot and Davis resident Andrew Owens’ Chihuahua mix. Since Owens adopted Jellybean as a pandemic pup in 2020, she’s become a fixture at local races and an inspiration for human runners — once they get over their initial shock.

Her owner said, "She doesn’t look like the typical half-marathoner, let alone a marathon finisher. But as she sprints past runners or crosses the finish line, she challenges every stereotype and assumption. Jellybean reminds us that potential isn’t defined by appearances. It’s about heart, determination and the work we’re willing to put in.” How's that for motivation? I can't even imagine how many steps this dog gets in each day! And if Jellybean has the heart and determination to put in the work, what's holding you back? 

And now, here’s the rest of the story…

Owens was a semi-casual runner with a German Shepherd named Kodie when he first met Jellybean in the halls of Mather’s Bradshaw Animal Shelter. He had never owned a small dog, and didn’t see the two of them as a fit at first. But he slowly changed his mind and returned for her a few days later. Jellybean tore up the house those first few days, and planted her heels when Owens tried to take her for an initial run with Kodie. But she whined when Owens’ brother tried to take her back to the house, and given a second chance, she proved to be a happy runner. She and Owens kept adding more and more miles, eventually outpacing Kodie and building the stamina to run Fleet Feet Davis’ unofficial marathon course in December 2020. Her paw pads are remarkably soft for any dog, let alone such an active one, and she usually runs out in front of her human companion. As social distancing restrictions eased, Jellybean and Owens embedded themselves in the Sacramento-area running community. They became a regular sight at Fleet Feet Davis’ popular Tuesday night Run Crew, as well as more intensive marathon training courses. An Instagram page Owens set up on Jellybean’s behalf (@jellybean26.2) has attracted more than 1,000 followers. Runners and spectators can’t believe their eyes at races, and use Jellybean as motivation for their own endurance goals, Owens said. “It’s disbelief and then it’s awe, and then ‘you inspire me,’” Owens said. “Runners at races (say), ‘no way, he carried the dog, that dog’s not going to make it.’ And then people will come up after and say, ‘Did that dog do all of it?’ And I’m like, ‘Yeah, she did every single step.’ And they’re like, ‘No way. If that dog can do it, I want to go from a 5K to a 10K, a 10K to a half, a half to a marathon.’”

Owner and dog have run six marathons together, the fastest being 3 hours and 47 minutes at the Garmin Kansas City Marathon in October (8:40 min/mile pace) and have completed three ultramarathons (distances over 26.2 miles). Through all this, Jellybean has accumulated a lot of running friends. Sarah Pitfield met Jellybean as a Fleet Feet running coach, her side hustle for 10 years until November. The Chihuahua mix with some dachshund and Sheltie thrown in doesn’t look like a super athlete, but her body is primed for distance running, Pitfield said. Jellybean has small legs, yes, but they don’t need to move very far for each stride. She’s “all muscle” in a way that human physiology can’t imitate, said Pitfield, a science teacher at Douglass Middle School in Woodland. Bigger dogs (and humans) put more impact on their joints each time they hit the pavement; Jellybean often doesn’t even have her mouth open at the end of a marathon, Owens said.

“A lot of people are like, ‘Oh man, that’s a little dog, there’s no way.’ And at the end, Jellybean has more energy than any of the humans,” Pitfield said. “It’s kind of like she’s skipping as she’s going. She never looks like she’s putting forth any effort. She just really loves it. “And if there’s a squirrel that she sees, you’re getting pulled behind her because she goes for it — it doesn’t matter what mile we’re on. She just has endless energy.” Every time Owens sucks down an energy gel, Jellybean gets a handful of Blue Buffalo Chicken Bits training treats to fuel her as well. She drinks only a few licks of water at a time but enjoys having some squirted on her in the summertime heat, Owens said. The Chipotle kids meals are add-ons to her usual kibble diet, and she’s been known to scarf down half a charcuterie board when allowed. Jellybean’s love of running has pushed Owens to go all-in on the sport, sometimes leaving his canine companion at home during rainy conditions or the deeper parts of 100-mile race training. Outside of those occasions, though, she’s upset if she doesn’t get to run as well, he said.

She’s shown her fans that size isn’t a barrier to speed. When Owens’ friend Peter Blando went looking to adopt a dog, he sought out an active companion that could keep up with him on runs. He ended up with a Chihuahua mix named Bacon.

And while she’s already accomplished more than most people (and dogs) will in their lifetime, Jellybean isn’t done yet. She and Owens are now working toward setting Guinness World Records for the fastest small dog to complete a half marathon and a full marathon. Is that awesome or what? 

And there you have it friends. We can sure learn a lot from our four legged friends. So if your motivation has been waning, I do hope you'll consider Jellybean's story. It's a tale (or a "tail" in this case) of what can be accomplished when motivation is combined with joy and the heart and determination to put in the work. And since size seems to be no barrier to speed, you might even consider adopting a small shelter dog that can accompany you on your training runs. The dog will get a home and you’ll get a faithful running buddy. Talk about a win/win! So in the spirit of Jellybean, put a smile on your face and get out there and get those legs moving. Happy Running!

Avoid Toxic Positivity

“For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death.” 2 Corinthians 7:10 NLT

In a story titled “How Toxic Positivity Aggravated One of My Worst Experiences” published by Runner’s World yesterday, the writer Donna Raskin said “Recently, I sucked. As soon as I started to run the 2024 New Balance 5th Avenue Mile in New York City, I lost my breath. I didn’t even make it through two blocks before I had to slow down, then watch the backs of other runners fade away. I spent so much time walking that I was reduced to nothing but my own worst thoughts: How embarrassed I was. How out of shape. How I have no friends, my life has no meaning, and my running is never going to improve. Did I spiral? Well, yes, of course I did! It took me 13 minutes to walk a mile. A few days later, looking for some running advice, I told a coach with whom I’m friendly about how badly I felt. In response to my sadness, she said, “But you did great!’” Why was this response from the coach so bad? Mike Gross, PsyD, a clinical and sports psychologist at Princeton University, and founder and director of TriState SportPsych explained it this way “The term is toxic positivity. Some people are uncomfortable with negative emotions, and so they invalidate your sadness or disappointment. Their response is disingenuous, and it comes at the expense of your well-being because we have to process our feelings in order to grow.” Thankfully, as Donna explained, Gross, who works with athletes at all levels, validated her feelings and then suggested that rather than making a decision about her racing future, she should begin to look at what is getting in the way between practice and performance—thus getting to the root of the problem and fixing it rather than pretending that everything is “great” for the sake of saying something positive. 

And you can be sure that toxic positivity isn’t only harmful to our physical health but to our spiritual health as well for many reasons. With the most important reason being that toxic positivity downplays the seriousness of sin and the seriousness of the consequences sin brings. You see, when you and I talk to a person caught up in sin and we say things like, “Oh that’s not so bad. I’ve seen people do worse” or “Don’t be so hard on yourself. It’s not like you murdered someone,” we don’t allow that person to experience the guilt and shame which leads to “the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience.” The deep anguish of heart that “leads us away from sin and results in salvation.” Toxic positivity then leads to “worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance” and  “results in spiritual death.”

So, while it’s true that staying positive is crucial to our overall health, it’s also true that being overly positive at the expense of ignoring the truth will destroy our health. Our perspective, although hopeful, must always be informed by the truth of the Bible and grounded in reality.

Heavenly Father, thank You for shining a light on a subject that even good Christians get wrong. Help us to be very discerning in this area and to be able to spot truth from a lie and to call out behaviors that lead to death, no matter how positively the world spins the behavior. Help us to love others so much that we will speak the truths that lead to life. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Become Like Little Children

He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:2-4 NIV

In a story published last week by Centre Daily Times, it was reported that “Local running legend George Etzweiler died earlier this week at 105 years old. Etzweiler, who was known for his “age-deyfing” endurance, died on March 16, just two days after his birthday. A retired Penn State electrical engineering professor and Navy veteran, Etzweiler didn’t find his love for running until he was 49. But once he did, he never stopped. He ran the Mount Washington Road Race, an all-uphill 7.6 mile run to the summit of the highest peak in the Northeast, more than a dozen times. Many of those times were in his 90s, Runner’s World reported. The last time he completed the 7.6-mile race was at 98 years old in 2018, in a time of 4 hours, 4 minutes and 44 seconds, according to Runner’s World.” There were many other amazing things George accomplished, as the story relayed, which led Mike Casper, race director for the Tussey Mountainback, to say “I think it’s the youth that he had in his heart that kept him going so many years….”

And, you know, when it comes to the advantages of being youthful in heart, Jesus, upon being asked by the disciples who the greatest in the kingdom of heaven was, called a little child to him and said “ Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus wasn’t saying that they were supposed to be childish, but was providing a new perspective: the way “up” is “down.”  Jesus was exhorting the disciples (and us) to seek to possess a childlike modesty in addition to their faith. You see, those who willingly take the lowest position are the greatest in heaven’s eyes. And who better than a child to teach us by example? A young child is destitute of ambition, pride, and haughtiness and is characteristically humble and teachable, and not prone to pride or hypocrisy. Hence the reason believers are to be child-like and not child-ish.

So, following the example of little children, let us seek to have age-defying faith my friend; in that we remain humble and teachable throughout our lifetime. Even if we live to be 105, may we aspire for greatness each and every day by grabbing hold of lowliness. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that only the meek will inherit the kingdom and that for us to be great in heaven we must be humble here on earth. Knowing that this goes counter to the world, give us the strength of mind, heart, and spirit to live by Your standards rather than the worlds. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

The Treacherous will be Held Accountable

“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the perversity of the treacherous destroys them.” Proverbs 11:3 CSB

In a story titled “Former NCAA runner demands ‘stolen’ championship be returned after loss to biological male, it was reported that “Former collegiate runner Minna Svärd demanded her “stolen” championship be returned years after placing second to a biological male in the 2019 NCAA Division II Women’s 400-meter hurdles. “It’s time for us to speak up and actually tell people about how we feel and what we’ve been going through,” the track and field star said Wednesday on Fox News. “Nothing about it is fair. It’s not okay that NCAA is allowing this to even go on. They absolutely need to be held accountable for what they are allowing female athletes to go through. It’s not fair.’”

And, you know, while it can be extremely frustrating to watch dishonest people gain victory by competing under false pretenses (in this case, a biological male with a clear advantage over a woman competing as a female), the Bible tells us that “the perversity of the treacherous” will ultimately destroy them. It may take time but, one day, they will be held accountable to God for their actions, even if the world refuses to hold the person accountable. Which means the NCAA, the male who ‘stole’ the championship, and all those who stood by and let it happen will be made responsible for their actions that brought about the unfair loss. 

So, knowing that God sees and knows everything, have nothing to do with the deeds of darkness my friend. Stand up for those who are seeking righteousness by refusing to compromise to the narratives of this world at the expense of the absolute truths laid out in the Bible. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that people of integrity are guided by the Spirit but those without integrity are guided by the flesh which will lead to their destruction. Help us to be people of courage who speak up for what’s right and defend the rights of those being wronged. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Have the Determination to Finish the Race

“Then David rested with his ancestors and was buried in the City of David. He had reigned forty years over Israel—seven years in Hebron and thirty-three in Jerusalem.” 1 Kings 2:10-11 NIV

In an inspiring story titled “These dedicated runners have done every LA Marathon for nearly 4 decades” published Monday, the writer shared the stories of some amazing people who have been running the LA Marathon every year since its inception. They have run through heartache and grief, battling illnesses and injuries as their bodies have aged. Some are now using wheelchairs, including the oldest who is 87. Despite it all, the Los Angeles Marathon’s Legacy Runners have stuck to their mission: finish the race. On Sunday, the group of 92 marathoners, including 10 women, marked their 40th LA Marathon, participating in the 26.2-mile (42.2-kilometer) race every year since the city’s iconic event began in 1986. “We’re legacy runners, we just don’t know when to quit,” 77-year-old Lou Briones said. Briones even has finished the race on crutches after surgery. Since getting both knees replaced, he walks the race. “You gotta do it,” Briones said. “No matter what the conditions are, you gotta be there at the starting line on race day.”

And, you know, this hardcore determination to finish the race, or continue the work for decades ‘no matter what the conditions are,’ is the same determination King David displayed throughout the forty years he reigned over Israel. Talk about an original legacy runner! Despite his many faults, David was admired and respected as a hero by the people of Israel. His lifelong dedication to God, his loyalty in the face of ill-treatment, his courage in war, his benevolence in conquest, and his faithfulness in friendship were so extraordinary that he will forever be viewed as an ideal king and a man after God’s own heart. David’s story serves as an example for all of us to follow. 

So, ‘no matter what the conditions are,’ stay loyal, devoted, and true to the Lord until the end my friend. Strive to be known as a person after God’s own heart and you will leave a legacy of faithfulness in the same way David did. Is there any better legacy we could leave? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example David gave us to follow. He was not a perfect man but, in the end, we know he displayed a lifetime of faithfulness and perseverance and was a guy who just didn’t know when to quit. Help us to learn from his mistakes Lord and to seek You the way David did that we might make it to that final finish line, and inspire others along the way to do the same. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Make Your Why Bigger Than Your Excuses

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about excuses. We all make them right? When it comes to getting in those workouts, the top ones for skipping them are feeling too tired, not having enough time, the weather is unfavorable, and/or simply not being in the mood. While giving into excuses every once in a while might not hinder your success, making it a habit certainly can. Which is the very reason your "why" you CAN and SHOULD get in those runs and sign up for those races must be bigger than your "why" it's okay to give in to your excuses and then deal with the regret you'll experience later. Especially when you see the social media posts of your friends crossing the finish line of one of the awesome races the Bass Pro Shops Fitness Series puts on. 

If this has you wondering what prompted this subject, let me share a story I read yesterday morning titled "Maine runner who is blind and deaf finishes 6 world marathons." I found this story so inspiring that I wanted to share it with you. It’s a story of what a person can accomplish when they refuse to let their situation become an excuse for not going after their goals. So, without further ado, here's the story... 

Declining vision led Dennis Lavoie of Madawaska to retire early in 2019, at the age of 56. And while he knew he would eventually become totally blind, he decided to start running — a decision that just six years later would lead to him earning a prize known as the Six Star Medal. That medal recognizes runners who have completed six of the most established marathons across the world, in the cities of Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London, New York and Tokyo. That was the original set of races recognized by an organization called Abbott World Marathon Majors, which awards the Six Star Medal.

Lavoie is afflicted with Usher Syndrome Type 2, a hereditary condition that causes profound hearing loss and eventual blindness. The condition causes blindness through the loss of peripheral vision. Lavoie said he is currently 70 percent deaf and is limited to a mere four degrees of peripheral vision in each eye. A visual field of less than 20 degrees is considered legally blind, according to the American Optometric Association.

The fact that Lavoie will one day completely lose his vision was a major motivator to get involved in marathon running. He said he does not like to consider himself disabled, but instead thinks of it as leading a different type of lifestyle. “I knew I had to take a different path in life than normal people would,” he said, “but I think I did OK. I became a mechanical engineer and worked in the paper industry.”

The loss of vision significantly started in 2018, at which point Lavoie’s doctor did not know he was blind. It began affecting his driving. On two occasions his car ended up in a snow bank. At one point he almost struck a young girl, which ultimately convinced him to stop driving and retire early.“I went to the mill the next day and said ‘I’m done,’” he said. The next day, he said he asked God what was next. His dog jumped in his lap, so they went for a walk. He decided to start walking to lose weight, and after a few months this turned to running.

Then he ran a virtual 5K and started getting involved in races. In 2021, he ran marathons in Idaho, Chicago and New York. Lavoie is led by a guide runner. They both hold onto a rope tether, and the guide runner lets Lavoie know if any obstacles, such as potholes or railroad tracks, are coming up.

He registered a time of 3:43:07 at the Chicago Marathon, a time fast enough to let him compete in the Boston Marathon, where he later registered a personal best time of 3:34:49. It was at the Chicago Marathon that Lavoie noticed some people wearing the Six Star Medal. He asked around and learned about the achievement.

And with his vision closing in, he decided to go for it. “I know I’m gonna go completely blind one day,” he said. “Why not travel? I’ve always liked to travel.”

Earlier this month, Lavoie accomplished that goal when he finished his final marathon in Tokyo... 

Looking back on the six-year journey from early retirement to joining a class of roughly 20,000 world athletes, Lavoie said it has been an immensely rewarding and spiritual experience. “Running with God is a beautiful journey,” he said. “I know my limits mentally and physically, but there are no limits spiritually. My faith has grown a lot since I started running.”

Wow right? There are so many excuses Dennis could have made! After all he could hardly see or hear. But his "why" was so much BIGGER! His vision was diminishing rapidly, he wanted to travel, and he made a goal! 

And, while you and I might not be losing our vision or our hearing, we are losing precious time each and every day. That's just a fact of life. Time stands still for no one, time passed can never be regained, and tomorrow is never guaranteed. Which is the very reason "why" you and I shouldn't make excuses why we can't get fit and/or stay fit. You don't have to necessarily run a marathon, but we all need to exercise our minds and bodies on a daily basis to ensure that we get the most out of life. So get out there with a smile on your face today and get in some purposeful steps working toward the goal of your choosing. Looking back, you’ll be so glad you did!

Happy Running!