My Marathon Journey

Earlier this year, I met somebody who has set out to change the world by inspiring one person at a time.

When I first met Joseph, it was for selfish reasons, I was trying to make a sale for work, and now as I look back I realize what an inspiring friend he truly is.

Joseph told me of his current goal to run the entire series across the nation in the Rock & Roll Marathons. My first thought was, "You're a Crazy!" Then he suggested that I should run one of them. And I thought again, "you really are a Crazy!" Six months ago, I was finshing up my internship, preparing for graduation and packing up my house and family to move to the great state of Texas. The last thing on my mind was how I could or even wanted to run in a half marathon.

But then one day while at work I received the following link in my email: www.josephhattrick.com.

It told of how Joseph started his journey to transform his body, mind, and spirit. How running has seen him through some pretty tough times. It was then I realized maybe I could run 13.1 miles straight through. And told him I would consider running the San Antonio 1/2 marathon with him in 6 months. Even after moving to Texas joining a gym and running here and there, I wasn't sure I could do, and whenever I would talk to Joseph, I would have to admit that I still hadn't registered. It wasn't until my beautiful inspiring wife told me she and her dad was going to register me for my birthday. That I realized the only person who didn't believe in me, was myself. And from that point fully committed to accept Joseph's challenge and step beyond my comfort zone and try something new.

On November 13, 2011, Joseph & I took to the streets of Downtown San Antonio to stand with 1,000's of other runners waiting for the race to start.

And 2 hours 19 minutes and 53 seconds later Joseph & I crossed the Finish line together, and I can now say I am among the few people who said I wish I could run in a marathon and then actually did it.

Now as I reflect on the past weekend, I can't help but be grateful for all the great people in my life who inspire me to be a better person.

My Wife - Thank you so much for your love and support and time it took to map out my running trails around town!

My Family - Thank you for your words of encouragement, and the sweet running gear you provided!

And to you Joseph, for lighting the flame and being with me every step of the way.

Now as we quickly come to the end of another year, and you prepare to set new goals for yourselves, I hope you all are inspired to step out of your comfort zone and try the impossible.

And a final thought from Joseph's website, "being inspired by me is one thing; but pairing your inspiration with action is what I am asking for. Let's change this world together by changing ourselves!" - if you get some time take a look for yourself, to see what the "average joe" is inspiring people to do. www.josephhattrick.com.