Three Hours from Fernie

We push ourselves on to greater things,

We face our fears and head out into the storm

We know we may not make it all the way

We know that simply finishing is a major accomplishment

That is part of what drives us, part of the lure.

(I do this not because I am special

But to demonstrate to others what they can do

For if I can do it, so can you.)

We plan, we strategize, we train, we prepare in all sorts of ways

And yet, when we don’t make it, even though we knew all along that that was a possibility

And even when we understand that just toeing the line is something magical we are permitted to do 

And a thrill that only a few will experience,

Even so, it takes a truly amazing spirit to still say “It’s ok”

There is no loss, there is only the journey.

And did you do your best?

(Though even that for some folks is a very loaded question)

We’re fighters, we’re  resisters

We tend to not go quietly into the night

We hold ourselves to high standards, and are, perhaps unfairly, hard on ourselves when we fall short of our expectations

No matter how over the top or out of touch with ROTG (Reality On The Ground) that may be

We need to remember the kindness that we would extend to others, and extend it to ourselves.

If we can do that simple act, we will be a success.

Thank you, J!ll.