In High School I signed up for the track team and trained to run 800 meters which is about a half a mile. On the day of the big race I was ready to go.
That day did not go as I had planned. The lesson I learned can save you from a lot of guilt and stress.
This was a special day because my girlfriend was in the stands. Well, she didn’t know that she was my girlfriend, but I knew. That was all that counted.
Maybe winning this race would turn my dream romance into a reality.
When the starting gun went off, I took off like a shot. After the first turn I was ahead of everybody. At a quarter mile I ran out of gas. I tried to keep going but it was impossible.
My stomach sent a message to my brain. The sandwich I had eaten earlier in the day didn’t want to run with me anymore. Before I knew it, I was kneeling on the infield grass. The sandwich came up first, followed by a pizza I had eaten a week ago, and finally a jar of strained peas I had eaten when I was a baby. I am sure the girl was impressed.
I have never forgotten the lessons I learned that day.
- The first person out of the blocks is not always the first person across the finish line
- An effort to do your best may take you further than an effort to best everybody else
- Pace yourself
- Finish well
“…Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14)
[reminder]
Comments
Ken, I just want to say that your message on being fully alive has challenged me in more ways than one. I have been out of a job for almost three years now and I realize more often that the main purpose in life is to glorify the Lord. It has been hard, but the more I spend time with HIm, the more I can become fully alive.
Yes! I agree with Brian. Life is very hard but when we keep our eyes on the true prize and live Fully Alive all to His glory, He shows up and helps us through it all.
I listened to Fully Alive DVD after purchasing it as a Fathers day gift to myself. (My dad went to be with the Lord). Your message changed my life! I lost 20 pounds, feel great, started a home business, and am truly loving each day as I glorify Him!!
You can learn a lot hanging around the track. I actually wrote a book called On Track – Life Lessons from the Track & Field after watching my kids’ track meets. Finishing strong was one my lessons.
Great lessons for life, Ken.
Thanks for the great story, Ken. I too ran the 800 in high school. It’s funny how one story can bring back so many memories. I especially liked the point you made about finishing well. If you have a minute check out an article I recently wrote about making it to your destination.
https://www.oughtofbusiness.com/2015/02/04/2-concepts-successful-people-master/