As I contemplate the memories of this past weekend, I find that I am most certainly moved by the love that I experienced. I cannot fully comprehend how such beauty can arise out of such pain, but it is indeed undeniable. I really wasn’t sure how I would feel coming back to Nashville for the second time to run with Team McGraw, but by Thursday I began to get a glimpse as my spirit moved me to tears just thinking about it. I was returning to the city where I first ran a half marathon to honor my Christy, where I first met a group of people that would soon become my closest friends. It was where I first met in person and shared a stage with a beautiful young woman named Jenny, who would impact my life in such a positive way. I sensed something very special would again manifest itself.
The ride down was filled with beauty as the skies were clear and the hawks were soaring! I just know Christy has a hand in sending these beautiful birds across our paths. The natural beauty of Kentucky and Tennessee in the freshness of spring brings about such an inner peace and majestic awareness of something much greater than ourselves. I’ve traveled these roads many times and I never cease to be awed by this beauty.
Arriving in Nashville, the first stop was the runners expo at the convention center. We were fortunate to arrive early in the afternoon and thus missed the big crowds. It was a bit surreal coming back here and there were definite feelings of sadness mixed in with excitement. Getting a bag of freebies from the exhibitors, stopping at the Starbucks in the Renaissance Hotel and relaxing on their comfy couches was quite nice.
The Lowes Vanderbuilt hotel was such a perfect place to stay and provided the perfect space for the Team McGraw pre-race pasta party (Genvieve thank you) . It was a time to reconnect with old friends and to meet new friends. The food was excellent, but what would follow was a gift from heaven. As we introduced ourselves and shared our reasons for running, I felt in awe as we were in the midst of such a sacred gathering. Each story shared from hearts carrying the relentless pain of loss, the determined courage to fight, the unfathomable love brought about a holy moment in time and space that I won’t soon forget. The tears were healing and the oneness was apparent.
Gathering in the morning in the lobby, we were delighted to see that Jeff was able to make it and help coach Kevin ensure that we all made it through. These men are amazing people and I love them both deeply. We trekked it the short distance to the parthanon and met up with the rest of our team for pictures, hugs and chanting of “Ya gotta believe”. I have never before experienced such a oneness, a unity of spirit, than I have with Team McGraw. I am so honored to be joined with such a group. This group from all across the US, from different backgrounds, religions and generations. We are all one in love and purpose. It is just beautiful!
The run itself was quite a challenge with sunny, warm and humid conditions and of course, the hills! Personally, I battled shin splints for several miles, on and off knee pain and a quad muscle getting quite tight toward the end. Each time I wanted to give in to the discomfort, I remembered why I was running and what I was experiencing was temporary and this battle over physical pain was small in comparison to what Christy went through. I couldn’t stop, I couldn’t give up….one stride at a time…I kept running and finally the 13 mile mark was in sight and the finish line soon to be crossed. I ran as hard as I could to the finish. I cried….
I ran into love this past weekend. I was changed and healed a bit more. I am loved and I am blessed. TEAM McGraw I love you all! Ya Gotta Believe!
Doug