Heather Mir

In an effort to maintain a healthy balance in life, there is a consistent focus on fine tuning your body through fitness and nutrition, as well as a positive mental attitude.  You can achieve anything as long as you set your mind to it... as the saying goes. But what happens when your body is beyond all failure and your mind has given up? A situation seems impossible to resolve, or even work through.  However, even against all odds and challenges you can still manage to reach success. 

Imagine...a strength that exists in all of you...that extends past a fit body and a determined mind...an energy that fuels your motives when you cannot go any more... a force greater than your conscience.  If you can find and recognize that energy, then you can accomplish anything. Furthermore, you will have greater self confidence knowing a resource exists- even during your most formidable challenges.  

During marathon running, there is a term known as "the wall." The infamous fear in all runners participating in this event- but a common reality. Scientifically, "the wall" is usually around the 18^th mile of a marathon. This is when all glycogen stores are used up in the body as a form of energy causing severe exhaustion. And because your brain also functions on glucose (sugar), your mind reaches a state of fatigue as well. It is worth noting, however, that the severity of the wonderful "wall" can be avoided with proper training, conditioning, carbohydrate loading, pace, recovery etc...

Indeed, I have been privileged to experience the memorable side effects of "the wall" twelve years ago during the course of a marathon. My legs felt like lead and I was beginning to question my motivation for putting myself through such intense agony. I could not even get my mind to focus on the road before me. In fact, my vision was very fuzzy, I had chills, and I felt like I was hallucinating. However, I was determined to finish and I did. During the course of the marathon, I consumed sports drinks to refuel my glycogen stores. As the exhaustion became more intense, I began to move without thinking or consciousness. It was as if I was asleep.

Determined, I continued at a steady pace, unaware of the pain, or the possibility of failure. I did finish at 3 hours and 45 minutes. Not a record pace for sure- but mission accomplished.

I have often reflected on that last 6-7 miles. I do not even remember it,
really. My only thought was- I am going to finish. I concluded, there is a deeper strength in me- in all of us...an uncompromiseable resource available to overcome greater ambitions and self doubt.

Furthermore, during training, dieting, work, personal difficulties, and stress- if you allow this level of thought, then you can and will proceed. Simply, your "true grit" will pull you through all of your endeavors. Importantly, not just during opposition, but also within your personal agenda, for example, fulfillment in relationships, motherhood, career, and towards spiritual growth.

Once you recognize your soul, your inner voice, you can nourish it. As a result, all other interests, wants, and needs will be positive right down to the clothes you wear. I have often been reminded of the adage (as most of you have)- "feed your soul" during the much sought after journey towards "happiness."

However, the most productive personal growth and satisfaction are benefits- when first you find and recognize your spirit.

Embrace your inner fortitude!