It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint!

By Cynthia Ward

People who have run marathons understand the significance of showing up at the starting line on race day. For many, after easily 15 weeks of training, there is a sense of pride just by being on the starting line even before the start horn sounds. That is how I felt when I submitted 901 signatures to the Bureau of Elections in order to have my name placed on the ballot for the August 2018 Primary Election. I appreciated the significance of that initial step so much that I took a screenshot of the Bureau of Elections website reflecting my name among the other 2018 Primary Candidates (unofficial listing). I also appreciate that the journey ahead will be long and challenging. I can’t help but recall the advice that I was given when I ran my first marathon in Detroit back in 2006. That great advice applies here too:

1. Pace yourself. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
2. Run your own race.
3. Hydrate.
4. Enjoy seeing the neighborhoods on foot.
5. Wear good running shoes.
6. Thank volunteers along the way.
7. Cross the finish line with your head held high and smile. There will be loved-ones waiting for
you at the end!