2 Timothy 4:7

I ran the marathon in Providence last Sunday and although I finished in the bottom of the pack, I can't see it as anything else but a sign of God's grace in my life.

When you're a slow poke like me and only hope to "complete, not compete," you usually reach a point in a marathon where you know you just have to start toughing it out. Even though you've already survived 20 or more miles, the few remaining ahead of you seem impossible. You tell yourself stuff like "just try to make it up to that big tree," followed by "just try to hold on until you get to the next corner," etc. You may pray a little. You may pray a lot. If you're lucky enought to have spectators cheering, you get such a lift. And if you happen upon other runners who are also hurting, you give them an understanding smile and urge them on. You do anything you can to get over the hills, stay out of pot holes, keep on course, and finish in one piece.

I tried for a very long time to get sober and take better care of myself. After many failed attempts, I finally reached the point where I knew I just had to start toughing it out, relying on God's mercy and the help and support of others. I'm doing everthing I can and must, and I'm making progress. It still ain't easy, but I'm moving forward.

A.M.D.G.