my ryan shay memorial run

i scoped out a 5.5 mile loop through my parent's community for my memorial run.  i woke up when tc got up, started feeding him his bottle but smsmh kept prompting me to get out the door before it got too warm.

i eventually headed outside and stood in the driveway for a few minutes, just thinking.  i prayed silently for ryan's family.  for his friends.  and then i set off.  as i ran, i thought about the importance of making sure those in your life know how they are loved.  i thought about the weekend with my parents and my grandparents and the opportunity to do just that.

i also though specifically about ryan.  i thought about the frailty of life, but at the same time, about the powerful and steadfast way he trained, raced and lived.  i thought about the amazing way that one person could have such a profound impact on so many people.  and then the lesson revealed itself.  how can i, how can we, how can YOU live in such a way that we have that sort of profound affect on those around you.  what choices do i need to make in my life so that people are inspired, encouraged and motivated?

it takes a conscious effort.  it takes having a goal and a purpose.  ryan had all of that in spades and lived out those right choices on a daily basis.  to ryan's family and friends, know that his spirit is alive and well.  the lesson he left behind is being read, learned and lived by so many people.  we, as a community, are with you and supporting you in your grieving, but also in the celebration of a life well lived.