The True Meaning of "Team"

Ok, ok, I promise this blog isn't only going to be about this fitness project of mine, but right now I've just got it on my mind 100%.

Today was the 5k. I had a terrible night's sleep because I was so worried. Then I felt like it was the first day of school and kept trying to figure out what I was thinking by doing this. Anyway, we got started. I insisted that I was walking, I knew that was what I could do. My legs were sore and I hadn't trained, so that's what I did. Alesa and I walked up the canyon. We were what I called the "sweepers". It was hard, very up hill. I was quite discouraged when we were passed by people coming down when we were only about 1/2 way up. Anyway, long story short, Alesa and I walked all the way up the canyon. Then Alesa wanted to run a little. I told her I couldn't and to go ahead. She did. I continued walking and actually got feeling better so I would run a little bit when I could but mostly walked. Thanks so much Alesa, I don't think I would have made it up the canyon without you!

Here's the good stuff- When I was about 3/4 mile from the end I see my trainer headed toward me (she and about 5 team members came and ran it too). She came and walked with me and gave me some encouraging words. A few minutes later I see 3 of my team members. Felice said, "when you are ready we'll run you in." I started running and my team ran behind cheering me on. When we were almost to the the finish line there was my whole family cheering and Katie started running with me. Many people I know were there cheering too. You would have thought I had just won a marathon- maybe for me I did! Anyway, I couldn't help but tear up and be so grateful for this wonderful team that I have become a part of. I don't know that I have ever belonged to a group that I have felt such a bond with. I don't feel like there is any competition between us, just a genuine caring and encouragement. How blessed I am to belong to this team right now!