9/10/23 boring marathon (Reposted 6/17/2025)
I put on a lot of weight after my injury during military service which limited my physical ability. On top of that, years of a sedentary lifestyle while pursuing my Ph.D. didn’t help. However, last year, I started making a concerted effort to power walk. Since then, I have lost over 50 pounds and although I can’t run like I used too, I have discovered a love for power walking. I have been walking 5 to 7 miles per day for several months. Getting up in the morning this way and watching the sunrise makes me even more appreciative of the blessing of a new day and how much a gift it is to be able to walk and meditate on God’s word. It helps get me energized for the day. Several months ago, I decided to challenge myself to power walk a half marathon. I knew it would be hard for me but also knew with God’s blessing I could do it.
Well, I completed my first official Half Marathon on September 10th, 2023. Even set a new personal record (3 hours, 5 minutes)! Eventually, I’ll be able to walk/run more but for power walking that distance it’s really good. The marathon was in Boring, Oregon, which despite its name was really pretty. The route ran along a creek for part of the way, and I saw blue Jays, bunnies and possums. Along the route, I would jog for a bit and then keep a fast-paced power walk. Several times the thought that I couldn’t go on popped into my mind. When that happened, I would remember Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This enabled me to keep going. Nearly exhausted, I approached the finish line. My wife was at the finish line to cheer me on and give me my finishers medal. When I saw her there the Lord gave me renewed energy and I sprinted the last quarter mile and into her arms. I started this journey of weight loss a year ago and want to encourage anyone out there who thinks it’s too late or too hard to lose weight that you can do it if you put your mind to it and trust that the lord will get you there. If you live in the south Puget Sound area, I invite you to join me for a walk sometime.