Inspiration

Today when I was out for my long run, I thought frequently about Terry Fox.  I'm certain his story requires no official details or introduction, but in case you live in a dank and dark cave in the middle of nowhere and happen to be reading my blog, Terry Fox was a young man who embarked on a cross Canada run called the Marathon of Hope in order to raise money and awareness for cancer, the disease that took his leg.   When I was running this morning, there were times when my knees and back were aching and my stomach was not 100%.  And as I was running along, I noticed the signs for the Terry Fox run...and I was so very humbled.  Here I was, running on TWO legs that work perfectly well, on TWO knees that have carried me where ever I have asked them to take me, with 100% health as I am free of sickness and disease.  Terry Fox ran the equivalent of a marathon every single day during his Marathon of Hope, and he did it all with an artificial leg and much, much less that 100% health.  In doing so, he started a legacy that our whole nation has embraced and has raised millions upon millions of dollars for cancer research, and perhaps even more valuable, he has brought awareness to a disease that kills many.  More than that, I thought about how it is that it just takes one small person with one big dream to make a difference and change the world.  Terry Fox is a hero for many different reasons, but to me he is a hero because he did what most don't have the courage to do.  He had a huge dream and what would seem to many to be an unachievable goal.  And he did what most people would never do...he acted on it.  Amazing. 

Since I'm discussing amazing people with humongous dreams and courage, I would also like to mention this cross-Canada journey...

Step into Action is Dr. Riley Senft's personal quest to raise awareness about prostate cancer.  I had the pleasure of meeting his mother in Kenora this summer and hearing about this incredible man and this incredible journey.  I encourage each and everyone of you to check out the website Step into Action and to consider again the fact that we all have the ability to make a difference and to change the world.  We just have to find the courage to do it.  Dr. Senft, I have never met you and you will likely never read my blog, but I thought I should put it out there that I am in awe of your courage and the amazing steps you are taking on your journey each and every day. I wish you good luck for a smooth run all the way to the coast.  I know the marathon gods are watching over you and smiling as you near completion of your run across the country!

Which leads me, and hopefully all of you,  to ponder this one small question...

"What is it that you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?"

-Mary Oliver

Please...do tell...enquiring minds...