Volkslaufe 2009...

The Peoples Race! A few friends have asked how the race went on July 4th, so I thought to write a post for you. Volkslaufe, which means "the peoples race" in German, was amazing: many different racing events, lots of excitement and a perfect day weather wise!

Preparations. I was excited to prepare for another race, my first one of the year, but it was a challenge. After the pneumonia, my lungs have been so resistant to improving. Thank God for the patience He's provided! I took it slow and kept pushing myself little by little, but after only a week I knew I'd only be up for a 5K this year.

Once a runner, always a runner. The day before the race, I went out for a light jog to prepare for the race. I was testing out some new shoes and it was a hot day, but I was unprepared for the brick wall I would hit. After only a mile, I became sick and struggled to keep myself moving even at a walking pace. It was then I realized that on my own I could not possibly run this race. I paused on a footbridge overlooking the Shiawassee River, and humbly bowed my head to pray, "Lord, I cannot run alone, I need your strength, your breath, your life. Tomorrow, I run for you. (and should I need to walk, I walk with pride for You too:) Amen." I felt such a peace as I lifted my head to be sure that no one was looking and kept running, this time with ease.

The day of the race. Beautiful outside. Excited. Nervous (this kind of energy tends to be good:). I was so thrilled to accompany the Egger family for the event. Nate, a friend from high school, ran on the same cross country team as I. His wife, Kristen, is an enthusiastic runner who brings a smile wherever she goes. Bethany is also a high school friend, actually Nate's sister, who I played soccer with. Many family members came to support, including baby Aoife, Justin, Becky, Linda and Daniel.

The race. A blast! Because of the 2200 or so runners, it took us at least 20 seconds (which felt like forever) to even move when the gun went off. The course was marked on the roads through Frankenmuth and several music bands and water stations provided excitement along the way! The finish line fooled me because I thought it was sooner than it actually was...but two kicks helped shave seconds lost off of my time. I finished fourth in my age group. A little disappointing because only the top three are awarded a really cool, engraved German beer stein, but I was pleased nonetheless and enjoyed seeing Nate's first place stein!

Racing provides experience. Running is a mind game and makes a beautiful analogy for life: It's not always easy, but one must keep going! Whatever your condition, don't give up! Running is a great way to clear the mind and release unwanted toxins! Pregnant, nursing, injured, recovering, young, old...everyone alike has a different challenge but the game is the same. I encourage you to keep persevering as you run!

"Let us run with patience the race that is set before us" (Hebrews 12:1).