"Cow Bell"

Greetings,

H-e-l-l-o Atlanta! This week Assumption provided me the wonderful opportunity to gather with colleagues from around the country who are involved in Enrollment Management and Marketing. It was a very productive and inspiring trip from the work perspective and beyond.

Getting to know the participants I met a VP from a Tennessee institution who told me that he'd just started running 5 years ago and has already run 3 marathons. Impressive. I also learned that running the Marine Corps Marathon he'd dedicated each mile to a person who had had a significant influence in his life. Big smile.

He went on to tell me that Mile 14 was dedicated to an executive administrator who was a mentor to him and had since passed. One of his distinct memories of this individual was that he would loudly ring a Cow Bell each time a goal or major accomplishment had been achieved. Running along Mile 14 of the Marine Corps Marathon what did he hear from the crowd?? You guessed it, a loudly ringing Cow Bell. This was the only time he heard this sound the entire race route. A-mazing.
I loved this story and the thoughtful way he infused others into his marathon experience.

The next several weeks are dotted by some very long runs and I have to say it's a bit daunting. As you have been all along... YOU will continue along on the journey. Remembering individuals who have influenced me in a positive way seems a fitting way to gather energy and tackle these runs.
So, I decided on Thursday night that from here on out each mile in the coming weeks will be dedicated to a person who embodies Aidan and Maria's goodness.

Saturday was a 16 mile run and traveling back to Boston Friday night, I made a list of 16 people. The Run? It was a sweet 16.

Blessed with a well of people who demonstrate all that is good in this world,

m

P.S. Found myself in the cab queue with a gentleman who was also heading to the airport. With cabs at a premium we decided to share. We discussed where we were flying that afternoon. Me? Boston. Him? Johannesburg. Wow. Further conversation about family, jobs etc. revealed that he works in finance for Coca Cola Corporate (International Headquarters = Atlanta) and has completed two Ultra Marathons. Wow.
I guess it really is all relative. :)

P.P.S. He insisted on taking care of the entire cab fare. When I thanked him for his "donation" in support of Catholic Higher Education he simply replied, "Go and drink Coke products." Deal.

Quote of the week: "Dear George, remember no man is a failure who has friends. Thanks for the wings, Love, Clarence" It's a Wonderful Life
Just thinking about that cow bell ringing...

What's on the iPod: "I'd like to teach the world to sing" The Coca Cola Song (You remember this one! Type it in at YouTube. Memories...)