I think I have mentioned it before, but I moved quite a few times growing up. Once we moved back to the United States my mother unknowingly started a tradition for me when things get rough. In one move I remember particularly, she held me (nope - didn't like being touched way back then but in this case, it was perfect) and started singing Dan Fogelbergs's Run for the Roses. While the song is about horse racing, and specifically the Kentucky horses, the lyrics hit home.
Run for the roses, as fast as you can
Your fate is delivered, your moment's at hand.
It's the chance of a lifetime, in a lifetime of chance
And it's high time you joined in the dance,
It's high time you joined in the dance.
These words struck me even more this weekend as I was telling this story to some of my wonderful friends as any time things get tough, I sing that son to myself.
Lately, a number of great things happened. Many of my friends and family ran for their own roses, took their chance and danced without even knowing it. The kiddo finished his last track meet and set personal records & this last weekend took 4th place in the state of Texas for speaking; a friend finished a long journey of 390 miles for those who need help; others completed races, some their first, some covered in mud not just sweat; some realized that they have so many friends who love them that they danced because they can. The stories can go on...
I danced many times this week spending times with friends and family (a quick high in the garage to lunches of celebration), running early in the morning (something I couldn't do a year ago!), having fun night cheering for the home team (even if the basketball we saw doesn't deserve mention the company does!). Tomorrow morning I will be dancing my way through Heels & Hills, getting up before the sun to spend time with my friends and beating our own personal records.
All of these things, and many more that I didn't list, remind me to keep joining in the dance, even if you have two left feet. It might be scary, and you might not reach every goal right away that you set for yourself but the time is now. My friends, run for the roses - it is worth the effort so join in the dance.
P.S. Thanks Mom.
