On The Way to Marathon (12)

Dear legs:

The day after tomorrow is the race day for my very first full marathon. I decided to write a letter to you because I felt like talking to you silently every day this week was not enough to express my sincere appreciation.

To be honest, I didn’t really appreciate you until I started to train myself for the marathon. I always thought you two were a little bit too big and bulky for my height, although I was never a girly girl and did not fantasize a great figure either. Marathon training changed the way I look at my body. One has to be very strong to run a marathon and across the finish line without injury. I think you are strong. I do! The only concern I have is that I haven’t given you enough time and training to be prepared for 26.2 miles.

I was reading an article titled “26 tips for running your best 26.2” this morning. Instead of being inspired, I felt very nervous afterwards. The majority of the tips from the article don’t describe my situation, which only tells me the truth that I am not ready for a marathon. I haven’t even tried on my brand-new marathon outfit yet. Oh My GOD……

OK, stop whining! Let’s focus on the positive side and what I should do in these two days. You see why I am thankful for that I have two strong legs. I have faith in you. Together, we will make it! This almost sounds like a commercial slogan. During the marathon, we will have the dialogue. It is OK you tell me you are tired or hurt. I will say to you, “Hang in there, we will finish somehow, someway.” I will say this to you and myself over and over. Let’s remember “pain is inevitable but suffering is optional”.

Imagine how happy xiaozi and friends would be for me and how physically and emotionally relaxed I would feel. Imagine I will be able to call myself a marathon runner. It is wonderful! It is exciting! It is something I can take pride in forever!
Part of me always knows that I am just trying hard to boost my confidence and excitement. Writing a letter to my legs may seem silly. Sometimes we need a little bit silliness. I know I do. I am actually feeling better now. I will continue to take in lots of carbohydrates and will stay focus.

Xiaozi is flying here this evening. We will have whole week together. Our trip back to China is coming soon. Life is good, isn’t it?

Thank you for working hard, my dear legs.

Love, Wangzi