The Running Man

Michael and Patrick at the finish line!
On Sunday Michael competed in his first official 3k run at Central Catholic High School. He ran 3 miles in 36 minutes and came in 3rd place for his age group (ages 13 and under). So what you say? Big deal, I say. It isn't about the 3rd place and it isn't about the medal that he wore all day Sunday and then to school on Monday. It's about his song-and Michael's God song is running. I first heard about "the song" in our Wednesday night parenting class. Our leader asked us, "What is your child's song?". Hmm....I had to ponder that one. I quickly could figure out a few of those songs......drama for Ella, reading for Peris, Fiona...well anything that incurs danger suits her just fine, and as for Emmy I would have to say any social activity. But what about Michael? I started to struggle. He doesn't like organized sports, games, groups. He is self conscious and has a lower self esteem than the girls. And then it hit Derek and I (no his song is not Mario Kart!!)-his song is running. He LOVES to run-with people, alone it just doesn't matter. So we decided last fall to hit the running hard this spring-not competitively but recreationally. We are praying that the running turns into something more than just his feet hitting the pavement-we pray that it builds his self confidence and helps him focus his energy. So sure the medal is nice-but for the record, he thought he received the medal for having the loudest cheerleaders which meant just as much to him. It isn't about being the fastest-it's all about the cheerleaders who are yelling for you along the way and at the end of the race.

PS-Thank you Patrick for investing in my son. You are very special.