I can't do it anymore.

Not even one more step.

I want to stop.

Maybe I can walk instead of running.

No, I don't think I will be able to resume running if I start to walk.

Okay, let's set a goal of not walking.

I won't stop running, even though my leg is so heavy.

Let me listen to my own breath.

2 steps every breath.

Let's keep the rhythm.

But it's too hot.

The sun is too strong.

It's so humid.

It's okay, soon it will be over.

These were the thoughts that ran through my head after completing a 5K, biking for 10 miles, and embarking on a second 5K.

Under the hot sun in Tarpon Springs, Florida.

Every race is a race between our own body and our own mind.

I don't think I can do it.

Yes, I can.

I kept debating until I reached the finish line.

Yes, I can.

I finished the duathlon.

People cheered me on along the way.

All of a sudden, I thought, "That was fun, I can do this again".

Isn't that similar to what we experience when we go through life?

We persist during challenging times, with the support of friends, family, and strangers.

We emerge stronger on the other side with a richer experience.

Thank you Dawn Vishey, MA and Karen Traugh for inviting us to join you.

Thank you Cherie Harrington, CPC for being a supportive stranger turned friend.