After the rain….The sun comes out

12/22/10

After the rain….The sun comes out. It always comes to dry away the tears of the storm. It’s funny how we don’t appreciate the sun until the rains pour.

I am forty-nine days away from the launch of my run. I have had to take my training into a gym because of the storm. It is sufficient for keeping my body tuned but it’s just not the same as running free like a stallion. Nothing can duplicate the feeling of being at one with the road: at one with the universe. It’s like the universe knows what you need and it conspires to give it to you. That is the theme of one of my favorite fables “The Alchemist” by Paul Cohelo. It is such a beautiful story. It is a favorite of anyone who has ever read it. I too follow the voices in the wind. I call it the whispers of destiny.

It’s logical to assume that I will encounter my fair share of harsh conditions while I am on the road but really, sacrificing my body is my privilege. I only wish I had much more to give. I am fueled by faith. Each day I have the faith that I will be OK. I have the faith that I will make it across this country. I have faith that I will meet people along the way that will help carry me on their shoulders.

Along with faith, I am trying to summon all my courage. Now I will summon the courage to ask complete strangers if they will help me cross the finish line. I don’t know how many people this post will reach but I must ask. I’m going to need a couple of items to complete this run. I’ve already prepared my running stroller. This stroller will hold my tent, sleeping bag, computer, food, and water. Of course it will carry a few other incidentals and toiletries as well. I see the biggest expense as lodging.  It would be impossible for me to afford hotels night after night. But, a nice hot bath and a soft pillow every once in a while would be welcome. So if you have a place along the route I am taking I would gladly exchange doing the dishes for a good night’s rest.  If anyone has a GPS watch to loan for the months of Feb – July, I promise to return it in perfect condition after my run is finished. Other electronic gadgets may come in handy. If there is some item you possess and don’t need and you think I could use it on the run, please feel free to send it and we can treat it as a donation. My mom will be driving a support vehicle for me along my route. So, I’m wondering if anyone has a good cargo van they wouldn’t mind donating for the months of the run. Oh yeah, I could really use food, drink, and shoe/apparel sponsors. Lastly, I am reaching out to local, state, and national media outlets to help spread the word about this organization. I’ll talk to reporters in print, television, and radio. Small gestures of help are greatly appreciated.

If you would like a copy of my itinerary you can email me at dennis@papadidos.org. Since you are reading my blog from the website already you can also mail items directly to the address we have listed under where to send donations. I’ve got to sign off now. There is still a lot to do and the holidays are here. I leave now wishing warmth, a nice meal, and love for all the world.