Beauty

If I wish to become a beautiful person -- not the skin deep type of beauty, but rather the beauty that comes from being a loving, kind, and compassionate human being, who is not misdirected or shipwrecked by the winds and rains of circumstances and happenstance -- then I must develop the important things in my life such as character, inner strength, and faith. If I am able to do so, others might be able to look and see a source of guidance, strength, and inspiration to do the same. We all have the ability to radiate beauty. It is a choice, a lifestyle to embrace.

Saturday, July 28, 2012

What I do is not who I am, sort of...

I am a lot of things, and what I do is not one of those things.

I have done some really cool things this summer. Amazing to me, really, considering where I started from last season, and that I just started cycling regularly 6 months ago and running regularly 3 months ago.

15lbs lighter
Completed my first triathlon AND won 2nd place in my category with the fastest bike split in my age group
PR'd my 5k at 29:58
Ran the Crazy 8's and PR'd my 8k at 52:00
Completed 3 Metric Century rides
Rode in my first bike race, finishing 25min faster than my goal, and 2nd in my age group
Climbed Mt Mitchell, the highest mountain peak this side of the Mississippi River
Finished the Roan Moan with a smile on my face and not a single moan
Climbed 5 mountains total: Buffalo, Bays, Iron, Mitchell, Roan
Ran 12 miles - for fun!

And it's still only July!

It would be very easy for me to say, loot at me!!! I'm now a budding cyclist. I'm an athlete. I'm a runner. I am...you name it.

But really, I am not any of those things. This is just what I do, in response to who I am: determined, focused, connected, introverted, ambitious, adrenaline junkie, gentle, forgiving, accepting, creative, quick learner, curious, etc.

It has not been all triumph and sweet victory. I've shed my share of tears, frustration, and disappointment. It is really hard work hauling my body and my trusty Trek up one of the highest peaks in the region. And even harder work to bring my mind to a place that allows me to do it again, and again, and again, always chasing from behind, with a smile on my face and the motivation to keep trying.

I am quite proud of myself for using who I am to get my butt up those mountains. For letting go of that extra weight. For putting my Brooks on even when I did not feel like moving. For packing up the bike even when I was filled with doubt. For pushing my self imposed limits back significantly. For fully experiencing life, the best way I know how.

All this sweat (and the very cool views from the top of the mountains) not only expresses who I am inside, but makes me more of who I am. I like that.
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