“Nakakapagod na.” She continued lamenting while still dragging her feet, pushing forward, hoping to not get swept by the bus. Through our short interaction, I learned that she’s from Subic and that she purposely came to Cebu to join the Cebu City Marathon. Oh, the lengths we go to for the things that keep us sane.
I’ve followed by heart, and it led me to Mt. Pandadagsaan—to trails only heard on tales, to experiences I’ll keep for life, and to people who were so generous with their time, heart, and effort. They say it takes a village to raise a child, I say it takes a whole running community to complete a marathon, most particularly if it is a road-to-trail kind of event.
Sometimes, it takes years before we get to see the bigger picture of why we have to do or undergo certain things in life, of why our greatest desires are never granted. But probably in the grand scheme of things, maybe everything that we are doing right now is just a practice, a preparation for something bigger.
There’s a part of us that can only be found in solitude, in despair, in anger, in frustration, in defeat. While that is not much celebrated, that part is precious. It is the place where grit is built. And grit—the courage and resolve to push through trying times, the strength in character—is worth it.
For some reason, the meaning of ‘fun’ has now evolved into a pretty much messy definition. From what used to be a chill hike – to temporarily escape the strains of mundane life – now we’re pressured with time, endless assaults, unforgiving downhells, and intense mental battles.
This blog wouldn’t last this long without you in the picture. My heart is forever grateful.
Growth happens in times when we least like it. But more than anything else, it’s necessary. There are things that only make sense in the later part of our lives – when the events seem to perfectly coincide to complete the tapestry and lead us where we’re supposed to. While at the moment it’s difficult to appreciate it as the raging emotions most often overpower us, time is a gentle reminder that our lives continue to revolve whether we like it or not.
If by chance you’ll be presented with another opportunity to visit the ‘Grandfather of All Mountains’ in the Philippines, I hope you’ll grab the opportunity to do so. For not only will you meet new friends and gain more experience, you’ll also bring back home new insights and lessons learned. Keep growing. Keep going.
Tell me you’re crazy without telling me you’re crazy: I recently joined an ultramarathon event.
Still feels like a bad dream – except that you’re no longer waking up.
Dakilanglaagan 