Why do any of us start anything? Motivation? Need? Desire? Scared? Desperation?
My answer was YES to all of the above.
When my mom told me that she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, I was shocked, scared and worried. Why did this happen to her? She as my rock and true light on this earth.
She touched the hearts of many and always told me that “A winner never quits and a quitter never wins.” She was a tough cookie and had a positive attitude through the beginning stages of treatment. Why her?? Why was this happening to my family?
As the years went by and I watched her get weaker day by day from the harsh treatments, it made me realize that I never, ever want to be in her shoes. I never want ANYONE that I know and love to ever be in that situation. I was motivated to find ways to support my body and immune system to stay well. This lead me down a path of healthier choices, of eliminating toxins in my body and home and it ultimately lead me to running.
I just completed my 5th half marathon and at mile 6 someone held up a sign that said, “Think of why you started.” This really made me reflect on the choices that I am making in my life. It made me think of my Mom and made me THANK her for going through hell so that I would desire a healthier lifestyle for myself and my family.
When I turned to see the finish line after mile 13, I saw that I was going to get my personal best. 1:56:46! Thankful for the lessons in my life and the angel on my side, more tears came as I crossed the finish line. I started my journey down a healthy path because of my Mom. SHE is why I started! SHE is why I am going to FINISH!
Think of why you started. Think of WHAT you are about to START.
Your possibilities on this earth are endless and you can do anything you put your mind to.
"Everything Happens for a Reason, for the Best" ~ Denise Swartzman (my mom)