Taming of the Shrew by Shakespeare
The description of a woman who should be held in high regard has changed over the past century, especially in the last half. Sharp-witted, shrewd, and bold are definitions that come to my mind when I think of the modern woman. This ideal has become prevalent because of the media that surrounds us as a society. Kate from The Taming of the Shrew would be a heroine in popular media today. She is sassy, irreverent, and cruel to those around her. No one could control her and no one dared. She knew it and she liked it. She was drunk from the power that she held over other people.
I liken this ideal of modern womanhood--- bold, sassy, and in-your-face--- to a hurricane. It causes destruction and wreaks havoc upon those around her. For example, when a woman is not controlling her temper, she loses the ability to hear and listen. The windy wrath that she expels blows respect and admiration away. Many people come to fear and avoid the woman who behaves in this manner. Just as Kate was disagreeable, sharp-tongued, and violent at times, ‘modern-women’ can make those around her dread her presence. I believe that Kate reveled in the power she had, and she felt justified in her temperament because of the jealousy over her ‘ideal’ sister, Bianca. Yet, instinctively I could sense the disappointment and sadness that she felt. She wanted to be appreciated and admired but her disposition did not allow it, therefore, it made her angrier and so the winds of discontent blew harder.
However, just as there is an eye in the center of the hurricane, calm can be found in the seat of a woman’s soul. Kate had to be humbled and broken of her vindictive spirit. I think the secret in making Kate realize her difficulties which helped change her attitude was in “killing with kindness” as Petruchio found. As with every person, Kate was bound by the human condition. We must all learn to control our appetites and passions so that they will be subservient to our will. Kate was bound by her strong feelings and out of control behavior, but when she was forced to fast, and clothing and comfort was withheld from her, she became humble. She learned difficult lessons through the crisis that Petruchio put her through; however, after this occurred Kate was reformed and she found peace.
I believe that women are born with a nature that is partly to nurture and foster growth in others. When a woman finds a peaceful attitude about her role in life, it can help her intuit the needs of others and render service where needed. This is a great power that can be fostered and strengthened into developing people and relationships.
In the end, Kate described the type of woman who she used to be and how she feels about it now. She declared that a woman who is scornful, harsh and callous as one whose beauty is blotted and marred. “I am asham’d that women are so simple, To offer war where they should kneel for peace, Or seek for rule, supremacy, and sway, When they are bound to serve, love, and obey.” She realized that only in fulfilling her proper role as a gentle-woman would she find contentment. She also acknowledged and showed appreciation for men and their role as protector, provider, and defender of women, family, and home.
“Kindness in women, not their beauteous looks, Shall win my love.” I hope to instill the virtues of gentleness and tenderness into the girls I know by example. I want them to appreciate their womanly gifts and the feminine attributes they have. I hope this development will lead them to believe in the virtues of what I will describe as the ‘Neo-modern-woman’… smart but humble, courageous yet calm, witty but kind, and loyal and loving. These are some of the ideals of women that I believe we will see growing with the future, despite the all-consuming media of the day. Like the gentle wind of a spring zephyr, the influence that good women have is emerging into a powerful force that will sweep away the prevalent but false viewpoint of the modern-woman today.
Copyright L.L. Williams
Monday, October 27, 2008
Good Question Hamlet
Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Hamlet’s, “To be, or not to be”, is the epitome of the ultimate question of life. I believe that most every human being who has roamed this earth at some point asks the question of “Why am I here?” Arriving at an answer can be an arduous journey or a walk in the park. It can simply come from beliefs and traditions that a person has inherited or he can embark upon a serious study into philosophy, religion, or science to find conclusions. The answers can come in a flash of inspiration, the anguish of tragedy, or in the serene moments of meditation.
Philosophers, shaman, prophets, and fools have all tried to answer this sometimes breathtaking question of “why?” We can find their conclusions in sacred writings, oral traditions, fairy tales, or textbooks. But I think that ultimately a person must find their answer within their own spirit. I believe that we are dual beings---flesh and spirit. As children of God, we can access higher power in order to answer the highest questions of life. When we find true answers, it will resonate within our soul. I also believe that we each have purpose in life as individuals. When we are fulfilling that purpose, it will bring us joy.
Hamlet also asked this question of why we, “suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune”, or suffer the, “whips and scorns of the oppressor’s wrong, the proud man’s contumely, the pangs of despised love”. Why do humans continue to, “grunt and sweat under a weary life”? I think that some of these answers can be found in pain. Painful experiences, whether they are in the mind or physically of the body, can be the crucible of character.
My case in point is that I have often marveled at the astonishing strength and power of various people who have survived horrific events in their life. For example, the Nazi death camp survivors who were starved, humiliated, beaten and treated so cruelly, yet the German officers couldn’t squeeze the life out of them. The will to survive was so strong and the human spirit so powerful that they were able to live on to the next day and tell their story to the world. Another example of strength and will came from the depths of Siberia where a few political prisoners were able to escape and cross the Gobi desert into India and freedom. Incredible determination and spirit was needed to overcome the odds against them. Why do people fight to live when life is so difficult? I believe that Victor Frankl put affliction into perspective when he said he hoped to be worthy of his suffering, and to be sanctified through enduring. When a person is brought down into the depths of humility, his only choice is to give up or reach for God. And by enduring heartbreaking trials, ones heart is strengthened and the soul is purified enough to see the face of God.
“To be, or not to be”, is a question that will live on as long as human beings do. I find hope in the strength of the human spirit and peace in my belief in God. I think that as long as people look to their answers for the reason of life with pure intent, they will find their solution fixed in the love of God.
Copyright L.L. Williams
Hamlet’s, “To be, or not to be”, is the epitome of the ultimate question of life. I believe that most every human being who has roamed this earth at some point asks the question of “Why am I here?” Arriving at an answer can be an arduous journey or a walk in the park. It can simply come from beliefs and traditions that a person has inherited or he can embark upon a serious study into philosophy, religion, or science to find conclusions. The answers can come in a flash of inspiration, the anguish of tragedy, or in the serene moments of meditation.
Philosophers, shaman, prophets, and fools have all tried to answer this sometimes breathtaking question of “why?” We can find their conclusions in sacred writings, oral traditions, fairy tales, or textbooks. But I think that ultimately a person must find their answer within their own spirit. I believe that we are dual beings---flesh and spirit. As children of God, we can access higher power in order to answer the highest questions of life. When we find true answers, it will resonate within our soul. I also believe that we each have purpose in life as individuals. When we are fulfilling that purpose, it will bring us joy.
Hamlet also asked this question of why we, “suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune”, or suffer the, “whips and scorns of the oppressor’s wrong, the proud man’s contumely, the pangs of despised love”. Why do humans continue to, “grunt and sweat under a weary life”? I think that some of these answers can be found in pain. Painful experiences, whether they are in the mind or physically of the body, can be the crucible of character.
My case in point is that I have often marveled at the astonishing strength and power of various people who have survived horrific events in their life. For example, the Nazi death camp survivors who were starved, humiliated, beaten and treated so cruelly, yet the German officers couldn’t squeeze the life out of them. The will to survive was so strong and the human spirit so powerful that they were able to live on to the next day and tell their story to the world. Another example of strength and will came from the depths of Siberia where a few political prisoners were able to escape and cross the Gobi desert into India and freedom. Incredible determination and spirit was needed to overcome the odds against them. Why do people fight to live when life is so difficult? I believe that Victor Frankl put affliction into perspective when he said he hoped to be worthy of his suffering, and to be sanctified through enduring. When a person is brought down into the depths of humility, his only choice is to give up or reach for God. And by enduring heartbreaking trials, ones heart is strengthened and the soul is purified enough to see the face of God.
“To be, or not to be”, is a question that will live on as long as human beings do. I find hope in the strength of the human spirit and peace in my belief in God. I think that as long as people look to their answers for the reason of life with pure intent, they will find their solution fixed in the love of God.
Copyright L.L. Williams
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Love is a Many Splendid Thing
Midsummer Night’s Dream
“Truth, reason and love keep little company together.”
Shakespeare had deep insight into the phenomenon called, “falling in love”. It is like a spell that is cast upon two people and nothing else in the world matters except to nurture, grow, and deepen the love that is felt by the two. Love makes the irrational seem rational and the impossible seem promising. It is similar to a dream in the way that random events eventually resolve themselves and come together to complete an enchanting story.
It is fitting that Shakespeare placed the setting of this play in a magical fairy-land forest. It represents what love is like upon first encounter. It is mystical, foggy, mysterious, exciting, and full of surprises. One can get lost in the mystery and end up not knowing what is true and what is false. The effect of the misty forest is similar to the effect of love --- a person is entranced by the magic but may also be bewildered by the haziness. The spell of love can blind the couple to each others faults and shortcomings as was seen with Helena and Demetrius. Poor Helena was tied to her lover even though he tried to sever those ties at any chance he could. He was cruel and hurtful, but her love was fastened to his heart. She overlooked his mistreatment and kept her hope in a future that would eventually blossom into a fruitful relationship. It is sad that she didn't realize her own beauty and decide to find love in a kinder and gentler person. But how true it is, that many pine after the very person who treats them the most cruel. This irony hasn’t changed over the course of thousands of years and is a somewhat pitiful or humorous commentary on the mystery of human nature.
How quickly love can change when it isn’t rooted in time. The fickleness of Lysander by turning his attention to Helena after one enchanted night shows how easily affection can be misplaced. The astonishment of Hermia and her distress in finding her lover wooing another is a poignant depiction of how deeply wounded one can become when giving their heart to another. It is a tender and vulnerable thing to trust another person with affection and feelings. Her darling lover became an enigma in a matter of a few dark moments and Hermia became lost, confused, and heartbroken.
The haziness of the forest and darkness of the night produced a situation where Puck, the mischievous fairy, could enjoy tricks and capers to his heart’s content. He hoodwinked Titania with love potion in her eyes that blinded her to the ridiculous brute she now admired. This amusement of Puck’s is another reflection of how falling in love can mislead a person and she may be deceived into loving an ass like Bottom. It was a funny prank, but it happens so often in reality that it is really crying shame that “falling in love” can make someone overlook the reality of a person, and she will settle for a beast.
Even though love may be hazy at times, in the end of Midsummer Night’s Dream the true lovers found each other again and were brought back to reality. They were able to bind and seal their love in the light of day after waking up and finding solid ground. Falling in love is an eternal phenomenon and a marvelous experience. Fortunately most couples find a foundation to build upon after they are done falling, and love grows into something not just blissful, but divine.
Copyright L.L. Williams
“Truth, reason and love keep little company together.”
Shakespeare had deep insight into the phenomenon called, “falling in love”. It is like a spell that is cast upon two people and nothing else in the world matters except to nurture, grow, and deepen the love that is felt by the two. Love makes the irrational seem rational and the impossible seem promising. It is similar to a dream in the way that random events eventually resolve themselves and come together to complete an enchanting story.
It is fitting that Shakespeare placed the setting of this play in a magical fairy-land forest. It represents what love is like upon first encounter. It is mystical, foggy, mysterious, exciting, and full of surprises. One can get lost in the mystery and end up not knowing what is true and what is false. The effect of the misty forest is similar to the effect of love --- a person is entranced by the magic but may also be bewildered by the haziness. The spell of love can blind the couple to each others faults and shortcomings as was seen with Helena and Demetrius. Poor Helena was tied to her lover even though he tried to sever those ties at any chance he could. He was cruel and hurtful, but her love was fastened to his heart. She overlooked his mistreatment and kept her hope in a future that would eventually blossom into a fruitful relationship. It is sad that she didn't realize her own beauty and decide to find love in a kinder and gentler person. But how true it is, that many pine after the very person who treats them the most cruel. This irony hasn’t changed over the course of thousands of years and is a somewhat pitiful or humorous commentary on the mystery of human nature.
How quickly love can change when it isn’t rooted in time. The fickleness of Lysander by turning his attention to Helena after one enchanted night shows how easily affection can be misplaced. The astonishment of Hermia and her distress in finding her lover wooing another is a poignant depiction of how deeply wounded one can become when giving their heart to another. It is a tender and vulnerable thing to trust another person with affection and feelings. Her darling lover became an enigma in a matter of a few dark moments and Hermia became lost, confused, and heartbroken.
The haziness of the forest and darkness of the night produced a situation where Puck, the mischievous fairy, could enjoy tricks and capers to his heart’s content. He hoodwinked Titania with love potion in her eyes that blinded her to the ridiculous brute she now admired. This amusement of Puck’s is another reflection of how falling in love can mislead a person and she may be deceived into loving an ass like Bottom. It was a funny prank, but it happens so often in reality that it is really crying shame that “falling in love” can make someone overlook the reality of a person, and she will settle for a beast.
Even though love may be hazy at times, in the end of Midsummer Night’s Dream the true lovers found each other again and were brought back to reality. They were able to bind and seal their love in the light of day after waking up and finding solid ground. Falling in love is an eternal phenomenon and a marvelous experience. Fortunately most couples find a foundation to build upon after they are done falling, and love grows into something not just blissful, but divine.
Copyright L.L. Williams
Monday, October 20, 2008
Crime and Punishment by Dostoevsky
Crime and Punishment
Fyodor Dostoevsky
Does a person have the right to murder if it makes life better for others around him? The victim was a cruel, miserly, bitter person. Did her death benefit society?
The victim’s death did in fact benefit many people. For example, for those who were in debt to this money-lender, the contract became null and void, and their property became free and clear. Plus, the exorbitant amount she charged in interest was negated. Usury is an ugly trade. In addition, her simple-minded sister would be free from her cruel hand. And Raskolnikov would now have the money he needed to support his sister and mother plus finish at the university. So yes, it could be argued that her death did in fact benefit society.
However, when Raskolnikov murdered the victim, he actually murdered himself. He may have physically split her skull open, but in reality he split open his own head and ripped apart his peace of mind. He rent his conscience in two and tried to repair it by binding it up in a web of lies, but this only tied himself into a twisted, broken madman. Whether or not the law or any person could discover the facts, the fact remained that the murder never left his thoughts. Sin brings guilt which brings fear. He was sick with fear and the angst he suffered drove him mad.
Raskolnikov’s frenetic state of mind spoke to the universal truth regarding conscience. The voice of inner knowing exists inside everyone. Conscience may be a still, small voice, but it is so distinct that it can’t be mistaken. It may be ignored, rationalized away, or argued out of hearing, but it is so clear and definite that it will continue to manifest itself to the spirit of man. Guilt is a crushing weight to bear. When Raskolnikov tried to override immutable law, the result was uncontrolled terror, dread, anxiety, and horror at his deed.
By reading Fyodor Dostoevsky’s, Crime and Punishment, many questions regarding principles, morals, and the value of human life surfaced to mind. It is my conviction that all human beings have intrinsic worth. God has given man reason and this divine spark is what guides our ethics, morality, government, and civilization. Without law---moral, civil, or otherwise, then the fall of man into an abyss of chaos is certain. This was displayed through Raskolnikov and the living hell he created.
Copyright L.L. Williams
Fyodor Dostoevsky
Does a person have the right to murder if it makes life better for others around him? The victim was a cruel, miserly, bitter person. Did her death benefit society?
The victim’s death did in fact benefit many people. For example, for those who were in debt to this money-lender, the contract became null and void, and their property became free and clear. Plus, the exorbitant amount she charged in interest was negated. Usury is an ugly trade. In addition, her simple-minded sister would be free from her cruel hand. And Raskolnikov would now have the money he needed to support his sister and mother plus finish at the university. So yes, it could be argued that her death did in fact benefit society.
However, when Raskolnikov murdered the victim, he actually murdered himself. He may have physically split her skull open, but in reality he split open his own head and ripped apart his peace of mind. He rent his conscience in two and tried to repair it by binding it up in a web of lies, but this only tied himself into a twisted, broken madman. Whether or not the law or any person could discover the facts, the fact remained that the murder never left his thoughts. Sin brings guilt which brings fear. He was sick with fear and the angst he suffered drove him mad.
Raskolnikov’s frenetic state of mind spoke to the universal truth regarding conscience. The voice of inner knowing exists inside everyone. Conscience may be a still, small voice, but it is so distinct that it can’t be mistaken. It may be ignored, rationalized away, or argued out of hearing, but it is so clear and definite that it will continue to manifest itself to the spirit of man. Guilt is a crushing weight to bear. When Raskolnikov tried to override immutable law, the result was uncontrolled terror, dread, anxiety, and horror at his deed.
By reading Fyodor Dostoevsky’s, Crime and Punishment, many questions regarding principles, morals, and the value of human life surfaced to mind. It is my conviction that all human beings have intrinsic worth. God has given man reason and this divine spark is what guides our ethics, morality, government, and civilization. Without law---moral, civil, or otherwise, then the fall of man into an abyss of chaos is certain. This was displayed through Raskolnikov and the living hell he created.
Copyright L.L. Williams
Monday, October 6, 2008
7-Habits
“I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestionable ability of man to elevate his life by conscious endeavor.” (Henry David Thoreau)
I have been applying the 7-Habits this summer while training for a marathon with my husband. I never believed that I would actually train and run a marathon. It always sounded like a neat thing to do, but way too hard for me. Yet, I was so inspired by the different people I watched cross the finish line in October of 2007, in particular a man pushing a wheel-chair-bound boy whom I supposed had cerebral-palsy, that I just wanted to become a better person and reach out for a difficult challenge and conquer it. I didn’t realize how hard it would be, but the journey has taught me a lot about myself.
“Difficult experiences become the crucibles that forge our character and develop the internal powers; the freedom to handle difficult circumstances in the future and to inspire others to do so as well.” (Stephen R. Covey)
By taking a proactive approach to the training that was required, I made myself be more agreeable and a better running partner. In the beginning of our training I complained a lot about how hard it was and how much I ached…and that was only doing 2 or 3 miles. But I realized my mistake and decided to be proactive by not whining. I found that listening to music and/or a book on my MP3 player is a good distraction. I also developed the habit of being proactive by making and keeping commitments to myself. It was a big challenge some mornings, but I kept my promise and was blessed by witnessing some amazing sunrises.
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”
I had an idea of the result I wanted…..complete 26.2 miles. But by “beginning with the end in mind” it has helped to make my vision clear of what I want to accomplish. It is not just a physical goal of conditioning my body to run that far, but also a mental goal of conquering my inner doubts. I have envisioned running across the finish line and by doing this, it has pushed my motivation and kept it up when the thoughts of the race become overwhelming. Mission statements and the reason for what you are doing is a powerful force which keeps you on the road you want to follow.
“Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least.” (Goethe)
Putting “first things first” is discipline of time management that I have wrestled with. But like Covey says, it is discipline that comes from within. Integrity develops when you make and keep commitments, first to yourself. By opening your eyes to what is important, not important, urgent and not urgent, you can focus your activities on things of lasting value. I have learned to prioritize my time and recognize the power of an hour. I have been using the Quadrant tool which has helped me immensely because it is like a map and helps me see the direction I am going. It also helps me have balance, flexibility, and adaptability.
“We have committed the Golden Rule to memory; let us now commit it to life.” (Edwin Markham)
Win/Win as a personal philosophy takes courage. For example, during some of our runs together, I would feel like a loser because I am so much slower than my husband; however, he never made me feel this way…it was all my perception. I needed to realize that we are both in a partnership and that we can compensate for each other’s weaknesses. I may be slower, but I provide splendid company and humorous commentary. He on the other hand is a great coach and helps me recognize progress that I don’t see in myself. So it’s a win/win situation. I like this habit.
“The heart has its reasons which reason knows not of.” (Pascal)
Empathic listening and seeking to understand opens “soul to soul flow”. It is the bridge between people that is built with respect, patience, and empathy. I have appreciated this more and more during our training because I know that my husband really listens with intent. He wants to be sure that I am dealing with the pain, but not injuring myself. He listens and also watches. I am grateful.
“We seek not to imitate the masters, rather we seek what they sought.” (Eastern Philosophy)
Synergy is a real phenomenon that is hard to describe because it is beyond observation, but it exists nonetheless. I don’t know how I can do a wind sprint at the end of a long run, but when I know that I am close to my goal and my husband says, “Let’s go for it”, I am able to get the energy to run a little harder. It is like a spark that kindles a little flash of momentum. When I was on my own this rarely happened, so I know that shared goals can reach further heights. It is empowering to have support and when creative powers are mixed, synergy occurs.
“I rejoice in life for its own sake.” (George Bernard Shaw)
By running, I have found the physical exercise is only one dimension of the whole. There is also a mental, emotional, and even spiritual aspect of it. It has become a way for me to “sharpen the saw.” I have come to enjoy the time spent in the early morning hours with the quiet, still air and to breathe in the sweet smell of fresh cut hay. It is inspiring to watch the sun rise and feel the rays warm my face. I feel alive when I run and it helps me appreciate the gifts I have been given ---my physical health, my relationships, and my love for God. I’ve also decided that running is a metaphor of life. It has helped me realize that the journey on earth is a steady, continual process that is full of surprises. If I keep up with the regimen of training and apply correct principles, then eventually I will make it to the finish line. I may not have the easiest time and there are obstacles and pain to overcome, but I know that I made a commitment and was able to see it through. The victory will be cherished.
Copyright L.L. Williams
P.S. I finished my first marathon on October 4, 2008. It took me 5 hours but I crossed the finish line!
I have been applying the 7-Habits this summer while training for a marathon with my husband. I never believed that I would actually train and run a marathon. It always sounded like a neat thing to do, but way too hard for me. Yet, I was so inspired by the different people I watched cross the finish line in October of 2007, in particular a man pushing a wheel-chair-bound boy whom I supposed had cerebral-palsy, that I just wanted to become a better person and reach out for a difficult challenge and conquer it. I didn’t realize how hard it would be, but the journey has taught me a lot about myself.
“Difficult experiences become the crucibles that forge our character and develop the internal powers; the freedom to handle difficult circumstances in the future and to inspire others to do so as well.” (Stephen R. Covey)
By taking a proactive approach to the training that was required, I made myself be more agreeable and a better running partner. In the beginning of our training I complained a lot about how hard it was and how much I ached…and that was only doing 2 or 3 miles. But I realized my mistake and decided to be proactive by not whining. I found that listening to music and/or a book on my MP3 player is a good distraction. I also developed the habit of being proactive by making and keeping commitments to myself. It was a big challenge some mornings, but I kept my promise and was blessed by witnessing some amazing sunrises.
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”
I had an idea of the result I wanted…..complete 26.2 miles. But by “beginning with the end in mind” it has helped to make my vision clear of what I want to accomplish. It is not just a physical goal of conditioning my body to run that far, but also a mental goal of conquering my inner doubts. I have envisioned running across the finish line and by doing this, it has pushed my motivation and kept it up when the thoughts of the race become overwhelming. Mission statements and the reason for what you are doing is a powerful force which keeps you on the road you want to follow.
“Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least.” (Goethe)
Putting “first things first” is discipline of time management that I have wrestled with. But like Covey says, it is discipline that comes from within. Integrity develops when you make and keep commitments, first to yourself. By opening your eyes to what is important, not important, urgent and not urgent, you can focus your activities on things of lasting value. I have learned to prioritize my time and recognize the power of an hour. I have been using the Quadrant tool which has helped me immensely because it is like a map and helps me see the direction I am going. It also helps me have balance, flexibility, and adaptability.
“We have committed the Golden Rule to memory; let us now commit it to life.” (Edwin Markham)
Win/Win as a personal philosophy takes courage. For example, during some of our runs together, I would feel like a loser because I am so much slower than my husband; however, he never made me feel this way…it was all my perception. I needed to realize that we are both in a partnership and that we can compensate for each other’s weaknesses. I may be slower, but I provide splendid company and humorous commentary. He on the other hand is a great coach and helps me recognize progress that I don’t see in myself. So it’s a win/win situation. I like this habit.
“The heart has its reasons which reason knows not of.” (Pascal)
Empathic listening and seeking to understand opens “soul to soul flow”. It is the bridge between people that is built with respect, patience, and empathy. I have appreciated this more and more during our training because I know that my husband really listens with intent. He wants to be sure that I am dealing with the pain, but not injuring myself. He listens and also watches. I am grateful.
“We seek not to imitate the masters, rather we seek what they sought.” (Eastern Philosophy)
Synergy is a real phenomenon that is hard to describe because it is beyond observation, but it exists nonetheless. I don’t know how I can do a wind sprint at the end of a long run, but when I know that I am close to my goal and my husband says, “Let’s go for it”, I am able to get the energy to run a little harder. It is like a spark that kindles a little flash of momentum. When I was on my own this rarely happened, so I know that shared goals can reach further heights. It is empowering to have support and when creative powers are mixed, synergy occurs.
“I rejoice in life for its own sake.” (George Bernard Shaw)
By running, I have found the physical exercise is only one dimension of the whole. There is also a mental, emotional, and even spiritual aspect of it. It has become a way for me to “sharpen the saw.” I have come to enjoy the time spent in the early morning hours with the quiet, still air and to breathe in the sweet smell of fresh cut hay. It is inspiring to watch the sun rise and feel the rays warm my face. I feel alive when I run and it helps me appreciate the gifts I have been given ---my physical health, my relationships, and my love for God. I’ve also decided that running is a metaphor of life. It has helped me realize that the journey on earth is a steady, continual process that is full of surprises. If I keep up with the regimen of training and apply correct principles, then eventually I will make it to the finish line. I may not have the easiest time and there are obstacles and pain to overcome, but I know that I made a commitment and was able to see it through. The victory will be cherished.
Copyright L.L. Williams
P.S. I finished my first marathon on October 4, 2008. It took me 5 hours but I crossed the finish line!
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