Strength and Happiness

"The Hurrier I Go, The Behinder I Get. . ." NAN

(quoting someone else)

So, I went running today and it was cold. I had to go, because when I was taking Sammi to school I saw an old man running wearing shorts! Crazy! But he was inspiring - and I love inspiring! So while I was running I thought to myself, "come on girl, you can go faster!" So I tried, and I could, so I did. Only for awhile, because I am pregnant, and I try to be careful and wise with my body. But as I was running I thought about an often quoted quote. "Do not run faster than you have strength. " I kept thinking that, and then I thought, I don't much like that quote. It gives people the excuse not to "run" at all. So, if I were to change it, I would change it to. . .

"Do not run faster than you have strength - but DO RUN!!!"

I kept that thought in my mind as I turkey trotted my way home pushing the stroller. It kept me going and going on my journey. Though, I did not run faster than I had strength, I DID RUN!!! Is that not what we should really do? Endure to the end. . . that is what it is all about. It does not matter at what speed, just that we do it! Whether at a turkey trot, or a sprint, the important thing is that we do it! Whatever "it" may be.

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When I say "run" I am not just referring to physically running, it applies to all things that we must or can do. Sometimes our strength is not as great as other times but we can still press forward. Forward is good, because otherwise you go backward. There is no reason for that.

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I think about Nan and what a good example she is of strength. She may not be able to run marathons but she keeps going - with a smile on her face and strength in her spirit. What a true joy she is. I hope in my aging I may find myself more like her and less selfish like me. I am always trying to improve myself each day. I hope when I am old I will be found with love in my heart and a smile on my face - regardless of what cards I am dealt in life. Nan is such a great example of this strength. I think of her often with admiration and love. I feel very blessed to have her as the mother of my mother.

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I think many people sell themsleves short in life - running about screaming that they have been robbed of happiness that they feel is owed to them. If happiness is what you want - then choose to have it. I believe happiness is (for the most part) a choice. Though the world may creep in about you, casting dark gloomy shadows, we have a source of eternal light - that will never dim! We should do better at looking to God and living. I plan to do better myself. We all struggle, but I believe obstacles can be overcome, weaknesses conquered, and strength found - when we find our strength within ourselves, and with God!

It is only a short time that we are here on the earth. While we are here we are meant to prove ourselves to see if we will choose to be with God again. He wants us to return to Him, just as any loving parent would desire that for their children. Why waste time in sorrow and gloom when so many of us live with such blessings that exceed the wildest dreams of those who have gone before us? We are really so blessed. We live in such an amazing time. I am so grateful to live at this time on the Earth!! I hope I do not disappoint any of my ancestors with the life I have chosen to live. I hope that I can live a life that would not disappoint those who have passed beyond the veil and who I feel often watch over me. I do my best. My best will be good enough for God!!! That is an encouraging thought! HOORAY!

Lots of Love, Mari