Surrounded

Dear Younger Me,

I couldn’t wait to tell you about what you witnessed today! Today, you had the best 13.1 mile conversation with Sam. Little fun fact that’s a half marathon, you’ll learn that in college. I am sorry about the spoiler, but I want to encourage you to be aware of those surrounding you. 

Running will become a classroom for you. Today was nothing but pure appreciation. I saw people who showed up for this moment they worked so hard for- incredible. I saw people who were present and equipped to lend a helping hand if someone were to be injured- honorable. I saw and interacted with individuals for the first and possibly only time- memorable. We were surrounded. 

I had the honor every step to see my sister get one step closer to a goal, which I’ve watched her work towards for six months. I would love to hear the stories of the thousands of people pursuing a similar dream. I may not know the stories, but the emotions were palpable in the painful and exciting moments of those running their race at their pace. 

I could write a book of how proud I am of the one beside me. Following hours of endurance, we cleared the final hill.  A moment of pride overwhelmed my eyes and sealed my mind with a new core moment. Yes, we just finished 13 miles. What touched my heart wasn’t that. It was the familiar faces and voices all present to cheer on that moment. Choking up my sister, the lump in her throat was visible in tears. Witnessing a goal achieved with the support of those who showed up is what moved my heart. 

Thank you to those who showed up. We heard from and witnessed the support at mile markers and present at the finish line. They were present through the training. Their support goes beyond running. The beautiful moment was a glimpse of support surrounding my sister in life. This letter is a thank you to them for loving someone that’s near to my heart so well. 

This letter is a reminder to cheer on those you see running after a goal. This letter is a reminder to thank those around you choosing to serve others. This letter is a reminder to appreciate the moments of interacting with those who cross your path. 

This letter is a reminder to not take for granted those beside you on the journey. 

This letter is a reminder to thank people for showing up. Thank those who come to support you. Thank those who share day to day moments with you. Thank people for showing because choosing to be present is a true gift that I hope you are aware of.

We are surrounded on this path and I hope a couple of these reminders will alert you to see the beauty I saw today.

With Love,

Older You