What if everyone single one of us chose to follow our dreams? Then we put our passion to use for the greater good. Well, I chose to follow a dream and it started on a beach in Hawaii. It was 2007 that I felt it in my soul that a change needed to happen. Being overweight and on antidepressants, I decided to start running on the beach. I shed the
weight and the medication. Since then, I only look back to reflect on the transformation that has occurred and how far we’ve come. This past weekend, in Hawaii, I completed my 80th marathon since 2008. I was back in the place where it all started, confronted with people from my past, embracing the gift of the present and seeing before me all of the dreams that are still possible. The magic of the islands is powerful and brought much clarity to all of the opportunities that lay before us. Your past does not define your future!
What is your dream? What moves you? I didn’t find my groove until 2007 at age 37, when I realized it was running. How about Diana Nyad who just finished her record-breaking swim from Cuba to Florida? At 64 years old and many failed attempts, she proved that you are never too old to chase your dreams, never ever give up. We all have a passion for something inside of us. Whether it’s running, swimming, dancing, cooking, whatever it is you love to do, that is what makes you, you! Embrace your passion.
If your passion is running, walking or it’s Hawaii that you love then have I got a place for you. In 2012, I ran the Kona Marathon, number 11 in my journey of 52 marathons in 52 weeks to raise awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research, in memory of my father. The Kona marathon really embraces that Aloha Spirit. There is something for everyone, a kids run, a 5k, 10k, half marathon and a full marathon. You don’t have to run, you can walk, you can come to support, or just come to get inspired and enjoy the land. It’s not about the time on the clock, it’s about the journey and the time in your heart.
I am very grateful to be one of the Kona Marathon Ambassadors. It is an honor to represent a marathon truly embraces that Aloha Spirit. I hope you will join me in 2014, come out and let your Aloha Spirit SHINE and I will see you at the finish line. We got this.
xoxo Julie
