Daily update
It's day 3 of the Strong, Free and Happy ride. It was a fogy
day, once again with hills (par for the course in this area). We saw a
blackbear this morning. Boy was it cute, button nose and all!
Today I biked 155km between 7am and 4:30pm, much of it with
Theo. This time though, I set the goal and the end point. Yesterday, I stopped
a little early because it was pretty warm, I was slowing down and the boys were
worried about me. I had wished I went farther, given the beautiful day and rhythm
I had. Now, I'm definitely not going to discount other people's worries about
my safety but I'll be trusting my own judgment more. I put a lot of mental and
physical preparation into this - more than I think can be easily understood by
others - so I can't expect them to know just how far I can go before quitting
time.
Some background info
Have you ever heard the saying that brick walls are there to
show how bad you want something? It's all about looking adversity straight in
the eye and finding a way to overcome it. The first time I heard that was in
"The Last Lecture" (Randy Pausch), and it really struck a chord with
me. I totally believe in fighting for what you believe in, giving your all etc
etc. It's usually tough, sometimes makes you wonder if it's worth it, and
always changes your life. (Can you see where I'm heading here?)
The Strong, Free and Happy ride for mental health definitely
has a worthwhile cause and has kept me -and many others - hopping to make it
happen. I am incredibly thankful to everyone who has given their encouragement,
talents and time. I am also really happy to see all relationships that have
come about because of it. That in itself is worth it, but it hasn't been an
easy route. From the few original brainstorming sessions I had last summer to
conversations throughout the fall, finally committing in January to today, the
committee has had our share of challenges, changes and shining moments. (My
favourite shining moment being Tuned Up.) Early on, I decided it was better to
trust others and give it my best shot than to not try. That was a risky move
that came with a bunch of 'brick walls'. I have felt disappointed, stressed
overwhelmed and doubtful at times, yet whenever my confidence wavered close to
reconsidering, something positive happened that instilled that confidence. For
example, people have stepped up to fill in the gaps in support crew work, they
have offered sponsorships and donations, they have commented that their life is
better because of this (or exercise in general), and have something to bond
over. I've bonded with so many others as well and am very thankful for that.
I've also learned a lot about strategies for handling adversity, which happens
naturally when so many people are working together. Physically, I was quite
hurt during a practice session. Luckily, I had not obvious breaks or concussion
and was able to get back to biking a few days before the ride.) Had I known I
would be so challenged before I started this, I may not have. I'm glad I didn't
know and glad to still be here giving it my all.
Just thought you should have a taste of the background info.
It's the good stuff and only the beginning.
Talk to you soon. Keep smiling,
Jess
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