So this is what it's like to b-l-o-g. Step one: INTRO[?].
I have been given an awesome opportunity to compete in an Ironman this year. Casually competing in triathlons every summer between running seasons has been an interest of mine since my mother introduced me to the sport when I was 15. I will never forget the excitement in Mama Sue's face [particularly in those uniquely ample eyes] when she asked me if I'd like to compete in our first-ever triathlon together; the woman always liked to push her boundaries, and she was never one to hide the anticipation of a new feat. Before I could even tell someone what, exactly, a triathlon entailed, my mom and I were beginning the preparations for our Big Day.
Fast-forward a decade to the present moment. I am, once again, in "preparation mode" for another Big Day with Mama Sue. The differences, however, between the Then and the Now are insurmountable.
Difference #1: Race distance will be over ten times what it was in that first race 10 years ago.
Difference #2: Preparations have included (and will continue to include) significantly more than the occasional Sunday stroll on our 1998 hybrid bikes, and more than the one-time pre-race swim that doesn't involve lounging on water noodles and incidental games of "King of the Raft" (however fun these may be).
Difference #3: With every stroke, with every breath, with every surge, with every high, with every low, with every moment of weakness, with every taste of glory ahead, with Every. Single. Step. Mama Sue will be with me. This time around, her encouragement comes not from her physical or vocal support, but instead from her Spirit. What I do, I do with Mama Sue. What I overcome, I overcome because of her. In her passing, she has become the very core of my Strength.
As I continue on in my training, I carry with me a newfound inspiration and motivation like never before; I no longer think I can succeed, but rather I know that I will succeed. The feeling is like nothing I have ever experienced and the potential that I feel from within is exhilarating.
As a good number of people continue to ask about my training, my upcoming race plans, my health, both my near and more-distant future goals (pertaining to triathlon, academia, work, physical location, etc.), my family and our new lives post-Mama Sue, this blog will be the best route for me to share the answers to these inquiries. Accordingly, please expect my first update very, very soon.
Until then...Be Healthy. Be Optimistic. Live in the Present, but Learn from the Past. Never Give Up. Love Others. Love Yourself. Take Risks. And most importantly, BE HAPPY.
End: Blog post #1. Hmm. So this is what it's like.
