Regular readers will know I’ve been struggling to locate my running mojo of late in the lead up to the Belfast Marathon in less than two months time. I’ve been restricted by illness and even then, I’ve found it hard to get motivated for this year’s event. Training runs have been missed and my diet has been all over the place. I’m two weeks behind where I need to be and my times and mileage reflect that.
I gave myself a good talking to at the weekend and resolved to get back on track this week. This coincided with atrocious weather conditions and runs yesterday and today have been completed in driving wind and rain. On both occasions I have resembled a drowned rat by the end of the run. The key word here is ‘completed.’ Despite the squall outside. I’ve went out and got the job done.
Mo Farah has no need to look over his shoulder yet. My times have been far from spectacular but every mile counts, and I’ve racked up 16 miles. I’ll rest tomorrow and then go again on Thursday, with the plan to fit in a 12 mile run somewhere before the end of the week. The Omagh Half Marathon has been booked for next month and I’ll be running to raise funds for SHINE Charity.
Some days are so meh you see no point in showing up and lacing your running shoes. But when you do go out there, even if it’s blowing a gale l, the endorphins kick in and it all becomes worthwhile. Temporary pain is necessary for long term gain. Here’s hoping these rainy runs are the gateway to a clear path to the starting line of the Belfast Marathon. I certainly hope so. I’ll continue to keep you all updated.
What temporary pain are you experiencing at present? Is it worth it?
Black Thoughts 
The heart-pain of loved ones who endure life without the hope in Christ; the physical pain of a damaged and aging body – both temporary, both driving me to be more intentional about sharing the great things the Lord has done for me in the here and now!
Good luck on your run! My youngest can’t even muster the motivation to start practicing for her 5K crosscountry runs… and she’s only 14. You’re doing pretty well, I’d say!
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Thank you very much Heather. I hope her motivation peaks soon 😊
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Hey, you’re doing better than someone who shall go nameless here.
Here’s my favorite thing to get motivated by: Res Firma Mitescere Nescit. Check it out from an old movie called American Flyers. Vintage early Kevin Costner.
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Thank you William. Yes, I will indeed 😊
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Good luck.
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Thank you 😊
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It’s amazing how good a bad run can make you feel. Putting in the work under such miserable conditions will pay rewards. You are already winning the mind game. Your body will follow. Reluctantly, perhaps. But it will do amazing things.
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Thank you. I think you’re right. I hope lol.
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I really know what you mean. Some days, putting on sneakers and going out for a run is the last thing I feel like doing. 😑 But you know how good it will feel after you do it anyway.
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Most definitely. Thank you and happy running.
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I rather like running in the rain, however not so much in the wind. Hope your mojo returns soon x
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Thank you. I’m out again today, weather permitting.
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My temporary ‘pain’ is reading blogs like yours when I can’t even run! You’re a lucky boy – the wind and rain in your hair and face and eyes and… Oh the joy of pushing yourself to the limits. If only I could. But, I’ll be back! 🙂
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Thank you. I’m rooting for you.
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Hey, you’re gonna run a marathon in Belfast?! Enough said. The weather might never cooperate, but you seem equipped to take it as it comes! You’re gonna do this.
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Thank you very much 😊
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Good luck, you’re my hero, Stephen. As an ex-jogger who suffers severe degenerative bone loss, I find great satisfaction in completing a yoga practice, an isometric routine and a low impact aerobic exercise in the comfort of my bedroom coached by trainers on YouTube. My marathons are not as strenuous, but they are as monumental as your runs.🙏😎
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Of course they are, Larry. Thank you.
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Go, girl, go. My son does half marathons, his daughter does walks. The discipline of training is a constant. I sincerely hope you make it to the finish line.
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Thank you very much.
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A writing deadline is temporary pain to me…I love to write, but it’s WORK, as you know. But the finished product is gratifying and the paycheck is worth it!
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Little Jacksons to clothe and feed 😊
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That’s right!
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