Update

Saturday was the first leg of the Y series. I finished the 5k (3.1 miles) but not in the time I wanted. I was hoping to get in at 45:30 minutes or under. As it was I finished it at 52:40. We'll see what the next 4 weeks brings. The second leg of the Y series is Sept 6th.

I have not figure it out and probably never will. How is that women older than me can walk faster than me? I don't get it. Just how in the devil is that possible? A 65 year old women walked it in 47:17. A 15:14 pace compared to my 16:57 pace. Plus earlier in the year I did a 5K in 49:56. Almost 3 minutes faster.

There are a lot of reason why I didn't walk as fast at the last 5K. 1) the temp was 89* with 93% humidity. Can you say HOT!!!! 2) I'm dealing with shin splints on the right leg. 3) Flexibility issues. I've got some exercises to help with both the shin splints and flexibility.

I have to stop comparing my race to someone elses. My race is my race. Here's a little inspiration I got from the walking site forum.

Accomplishment

The more you cultivate,
The more you accomplish.
Why doubt?
When distance separates you from others,
They cannot overtake you.

In the beginning of training, it may seem as if you are doing very little. You compare yourself to your teachers and to more accomplished people, and you may despair at ever reaching their levels. But if you are diligent, then it is inevitable that you will make something of yourself. Once you reach such a plateau, you will be able to relax a bit and contemplate where you are on your journey.

One of the most refreshing things to realize is that you now have something that no one can take away from you. Spirituality is yours to keep, yours to touch. No one else can gain access to it, yet this precious accomplishment can sustain and guide you. It will give you increased health, and it will give you knowledge that you could not gain through normal means. Once you tap into this source, you have gained a foothold on the spiritual path.

Uncertainty will not plague you. why can argue with you? You have seen it yourself. So once you have reached this milestone on your journey, it is proper to rejoice a little, indulge in a little contentment. Then take up the journey once again. (source: 365 Tao: Daily Meditations Deng Ming-Dao ISBN 0-06-250223-9 http://www.fortunecity.com/roswell/vortex/401/library/365/365date.htm} ----

It talks about the spiritual path, but it applies to the physical path as well. Reaching the point in your training where you know you can meet your goal, be it a 5K or a marathon, is very nice indeed. And, as well we know, there are spiritual rewards to be found walking the physical path.

Why do we doubt we can do what we want to do? What if you knew you could do whatever it was you wanted to do? Would you even try? Or would the doubt creep in and prevent you from even trying?

Until next time...