Update on life #1: The endeavor to be a runner

I should start by saying that running does not come naturally to me. It’s hard, and I’m frankly not very good at it.

Still, the idea of running has long enthralled me. Several times I have half-attempted to run. But my lack of intentionality and discipline proved no match for the challenge. Yet I have been envious of those who could “pound the pavement” as a release after a long day and those who didn’t need a pool and goggles for a workout:) and felt defeated that I could not join their ranks.

I also hold very dear some Scriptures that liken the Christian life to running a race. Of course, there is plenty that a non-runner can glean from this analogy. But something in me has longed to arrive at a better understanding, the kind that would come from learning about discipline, training, focus in a way that is close-up and sweat-drenched.

Finally, the season has come! Though I recognize it will not be pretty or perhaps even fun, I have decided to tell you that I am now in the uncomfortable process of becoming a runner. I am telling you this because the more people I tell, the less likely I am to give up on it. I am also telling you because my goal is to participate in the 5 Kilometer race put on by Crisis Pregnancy Centers on October 24, and I would like to invite you to donate.

Why the Walk for Life? The Walk for Life is the annual fundraiser of the Crisis Pregnancy Centers of Greater Phoenix. The CPC is funded completely by caring individuals who believe in the importance of their mission, which is “to save lives and protect futures of the men, women, children, and unborn babies in the Phoenix area." They do this by providing free pregnancy testing and limited ultrasound, free parenting classes, adoption planning and placement, free after abortion counseling, and low-cost STD testing. Because the organization is privately funded and committed to living by the Statement of Faith, all of these services are delivered in a way that is both caring and also focused on ministering to the whole person- physically, emotionally, relationally, and spiritually. On a personal note, CPC has been dear to me in my time volunteering there.

I have witnessed first-hand the work that God is doing through CPC. Abortions are prevented, God’s plan for abstinence until marriage is taught, and the gospel of Christ is proclaimed. CPC plans this walk/run as a fundraiser.

There are plenty of good reasons to run a race out there, but for me it is a personal lesson in perseverance and maybe also a way to support this cherished ministry that is giving me the opportunity to run this 5K!

Fundraising is not a requirement to participate, but all that I do raise will go directly to the work of CPC. You can get more information at www.azlifewalk.com. To pledge to support me, click on “Pledge info” in the left column and then the “click here” on the right side, or e-mail me.

And thanks for reading. Please ask me about it, so I don’t give up:)