Setbacks

set•back ('set-,bak) n. a problem that makes progress more difficult or success less likely.
 
In the Summer of 2013, I was running/exercising four times a week. I could consistently run five miles and my longest run was 7.7 miles. I was training for the Mo' Cowbell Half Marathon. My weight was the same as ever, but I was increasing my ability, building muscle, and thinking I could do anything. I never expected such tiny things to trip up my journey. 

During the first week of August, I was on a roll for doing something everyday. Personal training. Hiking at Castlewood State Park. Four mile run. Total Conditioning Class. Uncomfortable seats at a Cardinals game. Uh-oh... something in that mix left me with lower back pain. *TRIP*. 

After taking a week off, I got back to running. Five miles. Seven miles. Uh-oh... increased my mileage too quickly, so scaled back to shorter runs and swimming laps. *TRIP*.

Missed two weeks while preparing for and going on the Best Cruise Ever, which was well worth the *TRIP*. (Get it?)

Right when I was ready to jump back in to my routine, we went to a Cardinals game in 100 degree heat, and I felt sick the next day... and the next day... and the next day... for two weeks. I felt overheated on and off, especially in the evening, with a temperature one degree higher than usual, until I finally took a day off work and slept all day. *TRIP*.

Too many setbacks meant I had to give up participating in the half marathon. I deferred my registration to the following year, so I'm already signed up for the Mo' Cowbell in October 2014.

I lost momentum right before the holidays began. Even with Christmas and New Years over and done, I couldn't regain my enthusiasm or routine in the midst of bitter cold, Snowpocalypse, or never-ending-Groundhog's-Day winter. 

Current score: Hibernation mode - 1. Jean - 0. 

Yet there is a subtle difference. I may have lost my accumulated mileage. I may have gained ten pounds. I may be losing money on a gym membership that I am not utilizing. I may be struck down, but I am not destroyed. I am not giving up. I am a runner. I run with endurance. I desire to improve my health... and that's the difference. In years past, I wanted to want it. Now I know that accomplishment fuels accomplishment. Do it and you want to do it. I will keep going. I will complete a half marathon. I will run a 5k in under 33:00. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.