2012, the year I became a man, an Ironman. I have meant to post something for weeks. Motivation to get back into action has been tough, training and mentally-wise...but I've realized it's because a hell of a lot happened in the past few months. I think my body and mind needed some down time.
2012 was a ridic year for ACG, but probably the best of my life (with other huge life accomplishments aside). July 22, 2012 is a day I'll never forget, but 2012 the year also physically included PR's in the half marathon and Olympic distance tri, and one of the best MS rides of my life. Not only did I complete a lifelong goal before turning 30, but I also had a huge year professionally. Challenges arose of course during the same exact time of my heavy training (naturally). But that's life, everything seems to happen at once, right? I believe we are given only what we can "endure" so it must have all been dealt to me at once for a reason. It's hard to even reflect on all the emotions I felt last summer, but it was stressful, challenging, emotional, and spectacular all at the same time.
My Ironman journey made me really get to know myself again. When you embark on something like this, you need to be at peace with learning a lot about yourself...some of which you may not like. I was not always easy to deal with, I was cranky and could get angry/emotional extremely easy. My loved ones knew this all too well. But, on the flip side, I learned that I can "endure" a hell of a lot while multitasking my career, relationships and other life responsibilities.
Most importantly, I learned that I do really like the person I've become. Sure, I have many shortcomings and imperfections, like anyone else. But I know that if I put my mind to something, I'll figure it out one way or another. "I am vindicated." I embraced my passion for life and people. I love that I wear my emotions and heart on my sleeve. I learned that I'm kind of gross ha, and I really don't mind that! I like that I'm not a prissy girl, I'm an athlete. I like playing the professional businesswoman during the day, and really like getting sweaty and dirty after 5 pm to push myself to my limits. I know I've met some truly incredible people as a result of my life's path, most recently through triathlon/endurance sports and my non-profit work. And I wouldn't trade any of that for the world. They enrich my life in so many ways, and have made me a better person. Some have become my best friends, and I love you for loving me for me.
2012 was full of up's and down's, but closing it out the up's so outweigh any of the down's...they just made me a stronger person.
"Endure"...I keep using that word because 2012 taught me that this is really a mantra for me. It's been on my Road ID as a quote, with TCB of course. But it's a way of life for me. Natually, in training and Ironman, this is the definition of "endure" to me. But also in my personal life and career. You need to "endure" to come out on top, to achieve your goals. And the journey is never really over because there are always more goals and accomplishments to achieve. But going through the process is what makes everything so rewarding. I "endure" it all, and will continue to do so. When things are/get tough, I can push through. "Dark clouds may hang on me sometimes, but I'll work it out."
My blog may be far less exciting now, and I'm sure I won't have too much exiting to post. My year of the new journey is over, but now different adventures begin. 2013 will include some new goals, mostly focusing on pushing myself in different ways, working on speed, faster PR's and a Half IM. Here's to hoping all goes well, and that Placid will be back on my radar for 2014...yes, feeling a huge draw back to that magical place. And to making new, wonderful memories all along the way.
2012 is a year I'll never forget, a huge milestone year in my life. And I'll never be the same because of it. And I'm just fine with that :) I'll "endure" what is to come in 2013 and beyond.
I'll be sure to "celebrate...'cause life is short but sweet for certain".
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