Life's priorities

This post has been weighing on my mind for at least a couple of months—and the major themes haven’t changed in my heart or mind. I am feeling quite guilty about this 2012 Ironman pursuit—it often seems like an awful waste of time. My biggest concern is that my wife, children and grandchildren might think that this pursuit (and similar) were a really an important part of my life—and worthy of emulation. I would not encourage emulation. I think there are far better ways to spend our time than preparing for an event like this. I prefer to be remembered for more important characteristics than that I competed in a couple of Ironman races. Now, I do think that my triathlon experience (especially the shorter-course version) has been a positive source of health and vitality—but this post is about my long-course (Ironman) training/experience. I truly believe this life is all about becoming more Christ-like—refining our character and souls—and becoming the children of God that we were sent here to become. That priority does allow for some “wholesome recreational” pursuits—such as a hobby or two--which should not become a distraction to the main event (purpose). We are supposed to spend time in this life enjoying all the beauty and richness that this life offers—which allows us and requires us to pursue life beyond the time we spend in strictly spiritual pursuits (although we cannot ever really compartmentalize our lives as clearly as that might sound). So I apologize for the relatively weak example that I am setting. I know my actions speak louder than my words—but please know that my heart tells me there are loftier goals that I could be pursuing. I am sure that if I had 4 children at home and/or a demanding church calling, I would not be doing this. Anyway, I have enough invested in my preparation that I am not dropping out with 95 days until race day. So why did I hop on this track if I now have so many reservations? I think first of all, I felt it was an opportunity to do something “out of the norm” in 2012—you know, don’t want to get in too big of a rut at my age. I am pretty sure the experience, so far, has met that expectation. Of course, besides the volume, there is nothing wrong with the mental and physical preparation that I have experienced—but you don’t need to do an Ironman to take good care of your body. Finally, somewhere in my DNA is a need to achieve—and this path certainly meets that need—and will ultimately be personally rewarding. Finally, finally, working “in the world” I believe that we need to do a few things that lend some credibility to our worldly existence (and bridge the gap with our non-believing co-workers or neighbors)—if we acted like monks all the time, we might have a hard time making a living. Okay—so forgive me, if you will, for this very questionable life choice/experience. I know better--but just haven’t chosen better. There you go—full disclosure.