Yesterday I learnt a few things. Not just about myself but about people in general. Everyone has such a unique story to tell. A story which if captured in words could leave you spell bound for hours like some intense novel which captivates and pervades your every waking thought. I love listening to people's life stories, their experiences, their up's and down's. How they have struggled and overcome adversity - it is a true testament of the human spirit. Yet because we are so busy in our own lives we often miss out in sharing in those moments. And I think everyone's moments are worth acknowledging. It is what makes us all such unique and special individuals.
I finally got to see the Port Macquarie Ironman Doco on ESPN yesterday and to say that I didn't shed a tear would be a MASSIVE lie. Not only because it brought back so very many memories for me, but listening to people's stories and seeing the footage of everyone's struggles and how they overcame them made me feel ever so proud to be a part of this amazing sport. There was even a story from a member of our club, Kane Towns- and I urge you - that if you haven't seen the documentary, to please find a way to watch it. I am in awe of the story and their life and of those I share the PTC banner with.
I also learnt that people of all shapes and sizes, race and religion are truly remarkable individuals and worthy of so much more than we give ourselves credit for. And I can't speak on behalf of you all, however if we are anything alike - the self doubt rides high. The If's and the But's come thick and fast. The human spirit and drive needs to be nourished in order to function at it's peak capacity, actually it thrives on it. And I have found that by surrounding myself with those who have "my back" and pick me up when I feel less than capable - I truly am capable of anything. My family and friends nourish every aspect of my soul. I am sure that every person out on that field had someone barracking for them personally and if they didn't, they had the masses rooting for them. What could be better.
I realised yesterday when I did my Tempo run that all the self talk about being a 5min/km pace runner and drumming it in so I can try to believe it almost came to fruition yesterday. I did an 8km Tempo run with Jodie and averaged a 5:15 pace. I was ecstatic. Yep, sure it hurt. Actually it hurt quite a bit BUT I did it. My average pace is getting faster. And I will keep searching for the elusive moment when running feels easier. This will not beat me.
So the next time you go out for that Swim, Bike or Run and those little inner voices creep in and make you think "oh, I can't do this" - just remember that you are capable of far more than you actually give yourself credit for.
YOU JUST NEED TO BELIEVE IT.
