Grief

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Sometimes the news comes quick. Sometimes the news comes slow. No matter how or when it comes, grief travels in the wake of the news. Grief is heavy, weighty, a burden, especially when it involves someone deeply loved. Grief is not meant to be carried alone. It’s too heavy and may last a while—and that’s ok. That’s what family and friends are for, to share the load. Jesus stood outside the tomb of his friend and wept but He did not weep alone. It was a deep, human moment. “ Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted ” (Matt 5:4). If anyone knows how we feel in grief, it’s Him. But His grief did not linger long, as at the mention of his name, Lazarus came forth. We are not meant to dwell in grief, but should leave room enough for it. Let it run its course. Like the song says, “ Every Storm Runs Out Of Rain .” Another song says, “ The storm We will dance as it breaks The storm It will give as it takes And all of our pain is washed away Don't cry or be afraid Some things...

The Biggest Challenge Yet

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"After the April 9, 1942, U.S. surrender of the Bataan Peninsula on the main Philippine island of Luzon to the Japanese during World War II (1939-45), the approximately 75,000 Filipino and American troops on Bataan were forced to make an arduous 65-mile march to prison camps. The marchers made the trek in intense heat and were subjected to harsh treatment by Japanese guards. Thousands perished in what became known as the Bataan Death March." (History.com)

Every year, the march is remembered in a high desert memorial event held in White Sands, New Mexico honoring our soldiers who defended our country in the Philippines during World War II. The standard courses is marathon length (26 miles) and may be completed with or without a 35 pound ruck by military personnel and civilians. This year marks the 75 year anniversary of the event and was attended by survivors of the ordeal.



Here in South Carolina, I've participated in two memorial runs honoring fallen soldiers as well as runs remembering those who lost their lives on 9/11. My fitness regimen includes "Hero WODs" which are workouts designed to remember those who gave their lives fighting for our freedoms. "Murph" is coming up this Memorial Day.

Completing a memorial Bataan Death March at White Sands would be an incredible experience and perhaps my biggest challenge yet. Climbing the highest peak on the Eastern seaboard (Mt. Mitchell, NC) was extreme in its own right, but a trek in the high desert with a mind to remember men who endured such brutality in fighting for our country--these men deserve to be remembered.

This event is on my "list."
Not sure I would call it my "bucket list"--not exactly a "wish list" either, but it's on a list. 

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