the coconut husk

It has been awhile since I have gone on a run here, and it is a place that takes me home to the beginning of journey that led me to take a chance, and follow my heart. When I have gone, as I will this week as part of the Richmond (Virginia) Marathon weekend and #megsmiles family reunion, and as someone who did not run more than a few miles in my life, I am taken back to a post that was written in honor of Meg at the first run in her honor on January 18th, 2014:

How Can….
How can I ever run to the end of the block? But you did/will!
How can I ever run a mile? But you did/will!
How can I ever run a 5K, 10K, ½ Marathon, Marathon? But you did/will!
How can people of all different races, gender, ability, and beliefs come together for one common goal? But we did to honor someone so many of us never even met!
How can out of tragedy bring unity? But it did It brought all of us together not just for one day, but for the future!
How can out of so much pain and sorrow bring hope and strength? But it did. People are reaching out to people they don’t know to provide comfort and strength.
How can one person affect the lives of so many? But Meg you did!

We are coming home Meg, to your hometown and Hickory Hill.  You are still doing all the above, and after I wrote you that letter before my first my half marathon, guess what, I am running my second ever marathon in a year.

Her still pictures move hearts, and when I thought of what to put together to honor Meg, what came to mind was turning points in life, which often happen through trials, and strength of letting go.  When I run, I can let go…my limits, fears, vulnerabilities, and overcome struggle to find strength I never thought I had.

For all of us as we #runrichmond, and the runs thereafter in life, never lose sight of who you are and have the belief, which will turn into faith to follow your heart. It can scare you and fill you with wonder at the same time.

I look forward to another year of wonder and heart pounding moments in RVA.

Welcome home #megsmiles.

Until Next Time,

Ed