The Spirit of the Dance

I got a copy of this email was sent by my buddy. This text was penned by Rick G who died on BCGB during one of his night run. Unfortunately, he got stuck there during thunderstorm and flash flood. I do not know the exact reason of his death. Well, i was doing the night run this friday and while passing this place of incident, i definitely did think about him & felt a chill, so did my other running friends. Anyways, heres a piece of his mind and spirit;

Subject: The Spirit of the Dance
From: "rick gastelum" <rickgastelum@xxx.com>
Date: Wed, 30 Apr 2003 20:56:27 -0500

On an occasion I was asked by a fellow runner for thoughts on how to approach preparation for the challenge of endurance running. In response I attempted to convey that I held attitude to be as significant as aptitude.

Approach each event with an intention to succeed. Our personal appreciation of our own success is subjective, and therefore dependent upon our perspective regarding the extent to which we are capable of exerting our will. We can help assure that we perform to our potential by overcoming those self-imposed obstacles that seem to arise when we challenge ourselves. Physiological and psychological barriers are the true challenge. Depletion of our energy stores and physical exhaustion are factors that we may directly affect.

We each approach these endeavors with careful plans of training and bring with us a strength of character which promises amazing achievement. Our environment, the elements, the energy of our intention are our allies. During such a challenge, through the resolute application of one's will, through imagery and imagination, virtually unlimited spiritual energy is ours to utilize. This may be the source of strength that enables us to enact the Dance.

We know how to pace our physiological energy expenditure. We know how to manage hydration and to maintain homeostasis of our bodies in the face of changing elements. We may also tap the resources of our intention. We may choose to draw inspiration and a sense of energy from elements of the world through which we are passing.

Draw strength from the earth as you execute the steps of your Dance. Draw strength from the air through which we fly. Absorb energy from our ally, water, as we pass through it or as it rains down upon us. With each step, with each thought, we make a commitment to ourselves to fulfill our intention toward success. Fatigue may be held at bay and will seem to fade away. The extent to which we find personal gratification in these efforts, the beauty that we find through the Dance, are the true measures of our success.

Set out with determination and resolution. We have the opportunity to intend an experience that will be joyful, satisfying, and even magical! Knowing that we have extended the horizons of our imagination, acknowledged the elements as our allies, and sought success through belief are achievements of lasting value. The opportunity to complete the mileage is simply the venue through which we may grow in spirit and strength. Go do it and best wishes as you fly through the Dance.