Inspiration.

A few days ago, I got this email...

Hey Cliff,

I have been reading your blog for a few months. I had done a google search for "Christian Triathletes" and at the time yours was one of the first links to come up. I have prayed for you so often and feel like I have come to know you by reading both of your blogs. I thought I would write to say hello and ask you for prayers.

I am doing my first triathlon on July 13. The journey to this time in my life has been really amazing and it seems like a miracle that I am actually ready for this race! I have recently lost about 60 lbs. I still have alot to lose and I am most definitely not your average triathlete type. My whole life I longed to be an athlete but always seemed to be stifled by my weight and eating issues. Over the years I lost and gained weight and battled with gluttony. God is so faithful and has brought me along and blessed me in so many ways. About 6 years ago, in the middle of much trial and tribulation I decided if I didnt do something about my sedentary life I would die. So I joined a pool and began to swim! What a blessing it was! I reconnected with the "fish" that I used to be when I was a kid. Then I started my own business and continued to swim but really didnt lose much weight since I was so stressed all the time. Just in the past 2 years or so I have finally found some balance. I started to bike and walk and hope to be running sometime soon as more weight comes off. Thankfully I have many wonderful friends and family and a great pastor and elders who are very very supportive. Training these past 6 months has showed me so much about myself. I so hope that my story will inspire other women to move their bodies! I love to body surf in the ocean and of course swim and bike. I am still walking and not running yet. I hope as I lose more weight I will be able to run!

Well this email is long (and from someone you dont even know) but I just wanted to say hello and thanks for the great inspiration. I have praised God for your wonderful testimony.

I, too, at times can become demotivated. Especially when lots of things are going on. However, email like this reminded me of the gift and opportunity that I have. Not many people have a chance to be able to go for a swim or a bike ride or a run.

It is a reminder that we can be an encouragement to those around us. I will remember that this Sat at Peterborough for a Half Ironman.

To all my American friends, I hope you have a goo d Independence Day. May you spend the time with you family and love ones and remember the freedom that many others only dream of.

Cheers!