What’s your excuse?

Ok, I just completed another NYC full marathon. This was probably the best marathon of my running journey. I did not train anywhere close to how I did for several of my past marathons, but I was mentally relaxed and ran with friends. I focused on enjoying the run rather than looking to achieve a prescribed pace.

Every time I run a marathon, many of my friends talk to me about their interest in running but have several reasons why they cannot. In this marathon, I took the time to observe many who were running alongside me.

Here is a gist of some interesting observations:

I saw many running in remembrance of family or friends. This one struck my eyes: a 30th marathon for a fine gentleman remembering a loved one. I am not sure how old he is, but the picture below can speak to it. I am sure if he can do 30 marathons at this age, you can.

As I kept running, I saw this little boy with special needs running with strong will and grit. Understand the level of commitment needed for someone with this ability to complete 26.2 miles, and you will have nothing but deep regards for this young chap.

I kept running and found someone using a wheelchair to push himself through the tough NY course. Imagine using a wheelchair facing the opposite direction and pushing yourself through the bridges and the entire course. Deepest regards.

If this is not heartwarming enough, I met a guy named Tom while going up the bridge. He has completed 108 marathons in 44 states and is still counting—what dedication and passion!

As I ran past him, I was struck by the sight of this gentleman trying his best on the course with one leg and an artificial limb. He was truly going strong.

Fine, you may still have your own excuse to not push for the challenge of your choice, but how about this athlete who is visually impaired, using a rope tied to a guide for navigation of the track? This athlete is an excellent example of someone who is pushing themselves to achieve a challenge despite their limitations. It is truly inspiring to see how they are able to overcome their visual impairment and compete at such a high level.

As I ran past this amazing athlete, counting my own blessings, I came across another athlete who had crutches in both hands, a smile on their face, and was on their 123rd marathon. Can you believe the amount of dedication and perseverance this person has, even with their physical constraints?

As I looked up and brushed away my deep thoughts, I found myself running alongside someone named Peter, age 85, under a perfect blue sky on a wide road. I greeted him and wished him luck. As I split away from Peter, I kept thinking, "Would I have grit anywhere close to Peter's when I am 85?"

I saw many people fall, get injured, or simply hurt due to various reasons, but one thing was common: they were all working hard to push themselves through the course, despite their injuries or pain.

As I reflect about all of these amazing athletes, one thing is for sure: success has no excuse, determination has no excuse, and no matter what goal you want to achieve, you can if you believe you can.         

So, what's your excuse for not pushing forward with your next micro-goal?

Thank you, Neeraj Bansal , Vismay Mandloi and Basu Gunda for being the best companions for this run.

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