thinking and tapering - the last week of training‏

A little over a week ago, my father drove me from Newton to Hopkinton. As the towns ticked off, winding down Rte. 135.... Needham, Wellesley, Natick, Framingham, Ashland... I began to think, "what am I getting myself into? - it seems like we've been driving forever, and I'm going to run this?". I tried to focus on the puddles, still scattered about the road from the severe March rains - I'd need to avoid these along the way. Individual puddles, single steps... these seemed like good things to focus on. The bigger picture seemed too big.
The plan was Hopkinton to the top of Heartbreak Hill - a pretty standard final long run in preparation for the marathon. My running shoes, Hansel and Gretel, were now led pretty far away into the woods - they just needed to find their way back to Newton. I hopped out of the car, and started on my way.
....Three and a half hours later, I barely remembered the cloudly, early morning and the dark woods of Ashland - it was a blur of thought. My legs were numb, and the sun had just emerged as I rounded the corner on Commonwealth Avenue. I looked up the concrete hill ahead and saw a small figure in the distance. I tried to kick in a last burst of energy - a comical attempt, drawing from the numbness and fatigue. But I pushed ahead, and eventually I could see my mother standing on the crest of the hill, waiting for me.
The marathon is now about one week away, and there is so much on my mind. But my thoughts are not about the miles I face or the fear of distance. They are not about a start or a finish, or counting the miles that lie between. My thoughts have turned to friends and family in the present tense. I had the privilege of experiencing celebrations of both Passover and Easter this past week. Both were strong reminders to me of the strength of family, friendship and community. They were reminders of the sacrifices of others, the blessings of the moment, and the responsibilies we all have to tell stories, share memories and make meaningful contributions to the world around us. There was a comfort in familiar songs, and an inspiration in singing new ones.
As a final note, before the marathon, I want to offer my best wishes for a peaceful and inspired Spring. I really look forward to being surrounded by people next Monday, seeing familiar faces and sharing in the challenge with so many people. I am running on behalf of Dana Farber, and will be carrying many wishes and memories with me. This past week, I lost a close relative to cancer, and he will be held dearly in my thoughts throughout the journey.
Thank you all again for your support and encouragement throughout my training. Your wishes and smiles have propped me up over the past months, and I know they will help give me a final push on my last steps down Boylston St. next week.
In an effort to help with fundraising for Dana Farber, my sister Sarah has donated some beautiful hand-made jewelry to the cause. Her work is inspired and generous, and I hope will be an incentive for you to make a contribution to this worthwhile cause. She has posted pictures of her work and a description of how to select pieces at:
http://www.girlbotjewelry.blogspot.com/
Please consider making a donation and receiving a small token of appreciation in return. My donation page can be found at:
http://www.rundfmc.org/2010/joshb
All my best wishes. You will be in my thoughts in the days ahead.
Josh