It’s A Marathon

The journey of special needs parenting has been compared to a marathon, even though each day feels like a sprint. It can feel impossible at times. Our Wednesday Wisdom this week comes to us from author, coach and motivational speaker, Tony Robbins.

This past weekend, runners came from all over the world to run the New York City Marathon. 26.2 miles through all five boroughs.  I get chills just writing about it.  It is an incredible site to see!

London 1999

Back before I had kids, I ran the London Marathon to raise money for the Leukemia Society. When I started training, I had never run more than about 5 miles.  I wasn’t at all sure I could do it, but I decided to throw my hat in the ring.

When I got to the kick-off meeting, they handed out a training plan and the first run was 2 miles.  Two miles ?!? I can do two miles.  So, I started.  The runs gradually increased in frequency and length.

About five months later, I traveled to London with my ‘team’ and I ran the London Marathon.  I finished with a man who definitely looked like an Octogenarian, but I finished. And I am genuinely proud that I stuck with it.

If you’re unsure of what your child can accomplish, just start.  Start to teach them the skill (or the precursor skills) and see how far you can get.  You might be surprised!