My Saturday morning run started out like any other. We had a little
warm up, some tips from the coach, and off went the different pace groups. I
however struggled on my “long run”. I wasn’t really into it and at one point
(yes this is true) I stopped in a park (only 1.5 miles from the finish) and sat
down enjoying the crisp morning air.
After a little break and some mental toughness I got off the park bench
and booked it back to the running store. I did my usual stretch/cool down and
off I went to run errands and go about my day. Little did I know that one of
the 200 or so runners that started out with me that morning, one would not
return.
Now, I have had the privilege of being a part of several
different running groups throughout my short running career (Runner’s Depot in
Fort Lauderdale, Sole Sport Running in Arizona, Sunrise Striders & The
Incline Club in Colorado Springs, and The Runner’s Edge of the Rockies here in
Denver). One thing all these groups have
in common is camaraderie, an acceptance, and an initial liking for those
training alongside you. Although Mike
and I only exchanged good morning pleasantries (which is all I’m good for at
5:30 in the morning), my heart breaks for his family and close friends. I don’t
know where Mike works, where he lives, if he is married or has kids, in fact, I
know very little about Mike. I do however know that Mike is present at every
Tuesday morning workout and every Saturday long run. I do know that Mike pushes
himself hard, which in turn motivates me to work harder. Clearly he had goals
and the discipline to accomplish those goals.
When I later heard that Mike was struck by a car on the same
14 mile run I was on, I was shocked and tears immediately filled my eyes. Here
I was not giving it my best grumbling and making excuses of why I don’t feel
well and why I can’t run stronger (basically having a pity party inside my
head) when someone giving it their best would no longer be able to head out for
another Saturday long run. The news began to prioritize life for me as death
often does. It made me realize that if this had been my last run, would I die
knowing I had given it my best, likely not.
As I contemplate the news, I realize that Mike will never be
able to do what he loves again, but I can! Next Saturday I will roll out of bed
and put on my running shoes, per usual, but something will be different. I will
not grumble about how I feel or complain about the heat/cold/ imaginary aches
and pains. I will instead think of Mike and channel his energy. I will go out thrilled
that my two legs can take me on a journey that celebrates life. When a negative
thought creeps in, I will remember that I am taking Mike’s spirit on a ride
(albeit slower than he might be accustomed) through the beautiful landscape
that is Colorado.
I realize I will not be able to say good morning to Mike in
person any longer, but I can still say good morning to him in spirit, which I
intend to do. So thank you Mike Fontes for teaching me a lesson about life.
Life can be short and unpredictable, so we should take advantage of every
moment we have to give it our very best.
May your loved ones be surrounded by overwhelming comfort during this
difficult time!
Love,
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