Last night long run of 10 miles capped off my fifth week of training for the White Rock Marathon on December 5th. I posted my first update a few weeks ago and in that post I said the following…
My body is holding up well to the stress of four runs a week and my energy level has been good. I’ve slept really well the past three weeks and have not dealt with any soreness from training.
Right after posting that, I had a week where my energy levels were really low. I was pretty tired during most of my fourth week of training but my energy picked back up this past week. I think I’m struggling a bit right now just adjusting to the stress that running four times a week puts on my body as well as the water/calorie intake necessary to do that much running.
But we press on…
In week four, I ran 19 miles.
In week five, I ran 21 miles.
Next week, I will run 24 miles.
One of the thoughts from the training book I’ve been using as a guide is the principle of, “but it doesn’t matter.
Basically it is tell your mind to end every thought of an excuse with that phrase…
“My legs are tired… but it doesn’t matter.”
I’m feeling worn down today… but it doesn’t matter.”
I’d like to sleep in this morning… but it doesn’t matter.”
You get the idea. Whatever adversity comes your way… It doesn’t matter. You can keep going.
In the coming weeks you will be seeing some more information about why I am running the White Rock Marathon. Certainly one of the reasons is because I wanted another physical challenge and I do enjoy running, but there is something much more important than that.
I’m running to help raise money for ZOE Ministry, a ministry that seeks to empower orphans in Africa. Our church has made a $250,000 commitment to ZOE over the next three years. That 250k will help move 1000 orphans in Africa from a life of hopelessness to a life where they can sustain themselves. It includes a home for them, job training, and everything else they need to be able to make it on their own.
This is the reason that I’m running.
I’d be honored if you would consider sponsoring me [on a per mile basis] to help support these kids. Every dollar goes straight to ZOE. Again, in the coming weeks, I’ll be putting some more information on the blog about how to give, but if you are interested in supporting ZOE, would you let me know?
It would be a great source of encouragement for me as I continue to train for the run on December 5th.
For more info, click here.