My post-race thoughts.

Wow, what a day yesterday was. I've never felt so much pain and pride all at the same time. When I crossed the finish line, I was almost (I said ALMOST) moved to tears. I don't know if I've even been as proud of myself. I learned so much the last few months. Before I try to put into words everything I've learned, I want you to watch this video first. It does in 30 seconds, what I'm about to take lots of words to do.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2k1uOqRb0HU&feature=related

So what did I learn about myself? I would even make it bigger than that, I think I can say what I leaned about life. I learned that nothing can stand in the way of something, when I truly commit myself to it. I learned that he greatest amount of pain I have ever felt, is nothing compared to the pride I feel. I learned that being a good example for your kids, isn't just about how you act with them and the time you spend with them. I learned that the no matter how loose you leave your shoes, your feet will swell up and they will hurt like hell. I leaned that there is nothing better than the sight of your daughter when you are second guessing why you did this. I learned that bandaids are for more than just covering up cuts. I learned that random strangers standing on the side of the road cheering for you, means more than they will ever comprehend. I learned that no matter how nicely you ask, God cannot make the distance go any quicker. I learned that sometimes winning is simply finishing. I learned that sometimes losing is simply quitting. I learned that maybe I don't know the meaning of the phrase "I can't". I learned that at about mile 15, in addition to Gatorade, they give you vaseline as well. I learned that athletics doesn't define me, but that it does shape who I am. I learned that even a PhD in exercise science doesn't make running any easier. I learned to be happy about myself. and in myself. I learned that no matter how awkwardly short runners shorts are, I will never make fun of anyone wearing them again. I learned a really good story to tell my kids someday. I learned that time is not an excuse, if something is important to you, you will find the time. I learned there is something very spiritual that you go through somewhere out there when you are all alone and in pain, yet you keep going anyway. I learned that nobody ever does anything on their own. I learned that Jimmy V was right, if you laugh, think, and cry, it is a heck of day. I learned that lots of you ran a marathon yesterday. I learned that there was no way I took all those steps on my own. I learned that I have a lot of friends and family that love me. I learned I have a lot of friends and family that I love. I could go on and on, but I leave you with this, I learned my one thing. What is it you ask, that's what you have to figure out for yourself.