Realization

Today, I met a tennis family. The family was on their way to Tucson, AZ for a USTA tournament (Age group 12-13). I didn't get to talk to the daughter, because she was sitting far from me on the plane. If I did, this is what I would have told her...

People used to come up to me when I was little and ask, "What's your name? I'll remember that. I'll see you in the Olympics." While I wish you well in whatever endeavor you choose, I'd like to give you a different message. Enjoy the journey. Be thankful of where it takes you. This message may seem obscure to you now but it will be meaningful later.

Then I thought to myself...I have not been enjoying my journey. I used to when I was a bantam - youth. I looked forward to running and competing because I believed wholeheartedly I was on the right path towards my goals. Then when I changed environments, coaches, teammates, my beliefs changed as well. I felt I was headed in the wrong direction. I hated every minute of my journey. Change itself was not an issue. No, I don't mind change. This change however, was directing me to a destination detrimental to my goals and vision. I found this new path problematic for me spiritually, physically, and mentally.

For the past some odd years, I have continued running hoping to see some trail leading me back to my original path or a new path linking me to my intended destination. It's tough. With every stride, I find myself longing to feel and be inspired by steps...to ensure belief that I am that much closer to being on the right path.

Or at least to know I'm okay.