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Selah Saturday

Lessons from a Marathon Runner

Manouchka Charles · 2 min read

I’m a marathoner; I just like that I can say that now.

I’m not a professional by any means, but the statistic is that less than 0.01% of people in the world have run a marathon, and I understand why.

It is a challenge; it takes discipline, and it requires resilience, but the journey was worth every bit of the struggle.

I would often get asked why I was training for a marathon, and it’s a pretty valid question.

Everyone has their why, and here’s mine.

Six years ago this weekend in Mexico, I got into a near-fatal car accident. I was in a coma for 10 days and had to undergo multiple surgeries.

Right before my last surgery for my fractured back, my friend told me she had a dream I ran in a marathon. I was filled with anxiety prior to this surgery, so these words gave me hope to hold on to.

These words carried me through the challenge of training, but here are a few things I’ve learned along the way.

  1. Community is Everything: The support and encouragement from those around you can make all the difference. Surround yourself with a community that uplifts and motivates you.

  2. Discipline Starts with a Decision: Making the choice to commit to your goal is the first step. Discipline follows when you decide to stay dedicated even when it gets tough.

  3. Hard Doesn’t Mean Impossible: Embrace the difficulties; they are part of the journey. What seems hard today will be your warm-up tomorrow.

  4. The Process is Just as Important as the Event: Enjoy the journey, the small victories, and the progress you make along the way. It's not just about crossing the finish line; it's about the growth you experience.

  5. Run Your Own Race: Comparing yourself to others can be discouraging. Focus on your progress, your pace, and your goals. Your journey is unique.

There are many life lessons that I will hold dear to my heart, but the greatest lesson for me has been this — God will keep every promise. The fact that I could run is a promised fulfilled. 

One Verse

“Great favor rests upon you, for you have believed every word spoken to you from the Lord.” Luke 1:45 TPT

One Thought

What are some words and promises you have to believe again?

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Manouchka Charles

Written by

Manouchka Charles

Born and raised in Brooklyn, but I now call Miami home, my life is centered around faith, community, and creating spaces where people feel seen, safe, and spiritually stirred.

More about Manouchka

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