Find Another Reason Why
Let's talk about "setbacks" previously; I mentioned deciding to take two weeks off due to a minor injury.
The decision to take time off did not take much convincing. I knew this was the right move to make. I felt frustrated at most trying to find a solution to this injury. Nonetheless, onward I pressed, reassuring myself that I would be back training in no time.
And I was, I was training again, feeling stronger and proactively working on the areas which caused my injury.
Recovering from the injury, I entered the next phase in my training plan. I felt strong and confident in building my technical terrain technique and met some badass mujeres. I was flying high; I trusted myself and the direction I was going as I prepared for my goal race.
But, as I entered the last week of my phase - it happened—a setback. What happened, you ask? Shaking my head, I wish I had a great story to go with what I am about to tell you, but I don't. I tripped over my two feet in the comfort of my home, falling into a glass outdoor firepit. I tore open my knee; it was a bloody mess! An Inflamed MCL and a wound that said "No Running."
After a chaotic morning, I tried to calm my worrying mind. Once the dust settled, I kept shaking my finger, saying, "Melissa, how could you let this happen?" I was so angry that I fought back the tears and clenched my fists.
Throughout the weekend, I emotionally and mentally began to feel better; I started telling myself, "Every setback has a comeback."
On day 4 of the injury, I woke up feeling down; I noticed unhealthy patterns in my behavior and thoughts. So there was this constant feeling of wanting to weep uncontrollably. But, again, I reminded myself, "Every SetBack has a COMEBACK." It may seem a bit dramatic to say "weep uncontrollably," but I did. I felt sad. I took this sadness and began to say everything I was grateful for in this low moment. To say this turned my frown upside down and healed my bloody knee - it didn't. But it was brought to my attention that there is a deeper meaning and personal growth amid the discomfort.
And this is what I want to share with you; although we are aware that training doesn't ever go as planned, guess what? Neither do our races. It still hurts when injuries occur and outcomes don't go as planned. I mean, it is heartbreaking.
First, your injury does not define you. You are more than the miles on your feet. You are more than a runner. And although running has brought peace, strength, and joy (along with other things), it takes a lot of courage to pick yourself back up again. It takes a lot of courage to make tough decisions amid the heartache. It's like the scene in Spider-man Homecoming when Tony Stark (IronMan) confronts Peter (Spider-man). Tony says, "If you are nothing without the suit, then you shouldn't have it." Spider-Man Scene
You are a leader!! Your body is still strong and gorgeous! You are encouraging someone else also to pick themselves up; you are more than your spider-man suit! YOU ARE A CABRONA!
I began writing this blog with the intention to conclude with tips to navigate the setback, but as I come to a close, that does not feel right. I am sharing my experience and reminding you don't worry about where everyone else is now; comparison is the thief of joy.
I hope you find some relief in reading this. Even for myself, as I try to pick up where I left off, my anxious mind tries to tell me that I'm behind, but my heart reminds me, "Every setback has a comeback."
Happy Trails!
I am cheering and ringing my cowbell for you.
Quote of the Week:
“A comeback is a setback that did its homework, learned the lesson, and then moved forward.”
― Eleanor Brownn
Song of the Week: Judah & The Lion - Find Another Reason Why
