tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83370876797394010742023-11-15T11:14:51.504-08:00Keep RunningA place where people can come together for encouragement in this journey through life.Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-51367406102205860122014-08-09T15:44:00.001-07:002014-08-09T15:44:47.810-07:00<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Reference Point</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">I have survived the helo dunker. Twice. What is the helo dunker you ask? The dunker is a metal tube that trains you how to survive a helicopter crash in the water. The cylinder of misery is about 15 feet above the water. You are strapped into a seat, wear a flight suit, boots and a helmet. The tube o’ death is lowered into the water and then turns upside down. That means you </span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">turn upside down, in the water, strapped into a seat. Once the barrel of beatings stops moving, you then unstrap and find your way to an exit. Four times. And, the fourth time you are wearing blackened-out goggles. Not only are you upside down, you can’t see and you are holding your breath. That is sort of important. The question is: how do you find your way out when you are disoriented? It’s simple: you have a reference point. When you are going under and turning upside down, you find something to hold onto and when the motion stops, when turbulence has subsided, when you release what is holding you down, you use the reference point to find your way. Sometimes life turns us upside down. Sometimes we have to hold our breath. Sometimes, we do not know which way is up. What is your reference point? When you find yourself tossed and turned and sometimes in the dark, what do you hold onto? Family? Faith? Hold onto it when you are upside down, cant see and have lost your way, you will make it out and will have survived. Keep Running (or swimming as the case may be)!</span>Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-59724935152590681962013-07-07T21:46:00.002-07:002013-07-07T21:46:47.835-07:00The Competition was Fierce<br />
I prepared myself for the "1st Annual and Only Steve Mills 4th of July Willard, MO 5k." the other morning. I knew the competition would be fierce, but I have faced these foes before. In fact, they show at every race. "Doubt", "Laziness", "The Easy Way Out", "No Need to Run", "Seriously Dude Just Go Back In" and "Why Are You Doing This?" visit me the night before and are right there with me the morning of a run. I will admit, there have been a few times I have listened to them and have given in to their temptation. The funny thing is, while they accompany me to the starting line, they never run with me. I pick up a new set of friends when I start the race. "Achievement", "That Was a Great Run", "You've Got This" and "There's No Way I Am Quitting" run with me. No matter how fast or slow I trod, these faithful companions are right by my side. <br />
<br />
Who visits you the night before? Who tells you, you cant do whatever task you have chosen to try? Doubt? Laziness? The Easy Way Out? No Need to Run? Seriously Dude, Just Go Back In? Why Are You Doing This? Heres the deal: They may talk with you the evening of a race, they may bombard you with lies but I promise you, once you start running, they will stay behind and go hide. Oh certainly, they will visit again, but the more you run, the smaller their voice becomes and the stronger you will grow. <br />
<br />
Keep Running,<br />
SteveSteve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-26428614827013398922013-06-29T15:31:00.000-07:002013-06-29T15:31:32.086-07:00The Limp<br />
I've always walked with a limp. Now, it is a bit more pronounced. When I start walking, the limp is worse. Once my foot loosens a bit, the limp is not as noticeable; however, the limp is there. <br />
<br />
What causes a limp? Either one's legs are out not the same length or there is some part of the anatomy that is not symmetrical; out of balance if you will. Simple diagnoses: difficult solution. A limp indicates there is something not right. A limp displays a flaw, a limp telegraphs to others, and you, that there is an imbalance. <br />
<br />
There is a time when I do not limp. A moment in my life when my legs seem to be the same, when the now deformed right foot is the same as the left. When I run. In the split second both feet are off of the ground, they are equal. Running is where I am in balance. Running is where the imperfections go away.<br />
<br />
You may not have a physical limp, but there may be a mental, emotional, or spiritual limp. It is that one part of your life where things do not equal one another; where you are out of balance. What is it? Did someone lie to you and call you stupid? Did someone tell you, you are worthless? Did someone tell you will never be good enough? <br />
<br />
For me, physically, running equalizes me. For all of us and in all areas, Jesus, is the great equalizer. He is the one who touches and heals and as He lifts you up, if even for a split second when your feet are not touching the ground, you are without a limp. He is the One who calls you His friend, His brother, His sister, His Child! <br />
<br />
I may walk out of balance, but I run with freedom.<br />
<br />
Keep Running,<br />
Steve<br />
Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-39149711238069098502013-06-07T22:18:00.000-07:002013-06-07T22:18:16.814-07:00That Moment<br />
That moment when the alarm sounds at 5 am on a Sat morning<br />
That moment when you wonder if all of your gear is ready<br />
That moment when you are driving to meet the running group<br />
That moment when the air is chilly<br />
That moment when all you want to do is go home and go back to bed<br />
That moment when your GPS watch is not syncing<br />
That moment when you take the first step towards a run<br />
That moment when you wonder why you are doing this at all<br />
That moment when you are still cold<br />
That moment when you grumble internally at the decision to get up and run so early<br />
That moment when your body warms up<br />
That moment when you sweat begins to trickle down your face<br />
That moment when you arrive at the turn around point<br />
That moment when you have willed your body into doing what you desire, not what it wants<br />
That moment when you know defeated the alarm clock, the temperature, the desire to crawl back into bed is when you won the race. <br />
That moment, is what you live for!<br />
And that moment is when you know you will...<br />
Keep Running!<br />
Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-60963889195146510912013-05-29T20:35:00.002-07:002013-05-29T20:35:27.054-07:00It's Just Pain<br />
It's Just Pain<br />
<br />
One of the questions I am often asked is "How is the foot feeling?" I reply honestly with "It hurts; it's painful." The typical response is one of empathy. I simply shrug it off and say "It's just pain." I realize that my foot will most likely be in pain for the rest of my life. With a Lisfranc injury, that is just how it is.<br />
<br />
It's just pain. Do you ever think about it? I mean, when you aren't hurting, do you ever consider the pain? I didn't. I only thought about discomfort when I was hurting. Now with every step I take on my right foot, there is pain; sometimes more, sometimes less; sometimes in the middle of the night and sometimes in the middle of the day but there is always pain.<br />
<br />
It's just pain. I am thankful for my injury. I prayed last week, and with a genuine heart (at least I hope), thanked God for this injury. He did not cause it, but He is using it. I have met several people who have similar circumstances; some worse off, some not as catastrophic. Through this injury, God has encouraged, challenged, supported and inspired. Through this pain, God has blessed and ministered to people in ways that I could not imagine. <br />
<br />
It's just pain. I suppose that when I stop feeling pain, then I am dead. I have decided that with every step, with every breath, with every moment of being uncomfortable, I will thank God for being alive. I will thank God for the opportunity to listen to and care for others who are going through similar circumstances. Rick Warren has said "God never wastes a hurt." Indeed, He does not. What we see as an injury, God sees as a healing touch, what we see as a limp, God sees as a step toward His presence, what we see as pain, God sees as life. <br />
<br />
People can be hurtful, situations in life can sideline us or slow us down, pain can either cause us to stop or make us decide to overcome and live life. You decide, but after all, it's just pain.<br />
<br />
Keep Running,<br />
Steve<br />
Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-17569275393844681292013-03-11T15:27:00.001-07:002013-03-11T15:27:42.824-07:00Today, I ran!Today, I ran! It wasn't far or fast or pretty, but I ran. I listened to Born to Run, Running on Empty and the theme from Chariots of Fire. <br />
<br />
Memories came flooding in:<br />
I was that 10 year little boy who stood up from the wheelchair and walked.<br />
I was that young teenager running on the beach as my dad drove along side me.<br />
I was that 17 year old running 5 miles.<br />
I was that 34 year old, 246 pound pastor who almost passed out when running to the end of the driveway.<br />
I was that man who ran his first 5k.<br />
<br />
I have ran in hail and wind and rain and snow.<br />
I have ran uphill and I have ran downhill.<br />
I have ran into a tree.<br />
I have ran in mud, over trees, under trees, around trees, up a creek (without a paddle).<br />
I have ran adventure races, half marathons and marathons.<br />
<br />
None of that compares to today. Four months after an injury and being told by my doctor that my running days were over, today, I ran!<br />
<br />
And I will<br />
Keep Running!<br />
SteveSteve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-55030104097160383502013-03-10T09:48:00.000-07:002013-03-10T09:48:40.676-07:00Rev. O.V. DodsonMy Father in Law, O.V. Dodson died Feb 10, 2013. I was privileged to deliver the message at his funeral. Here is the transcript:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="text-align: center;">MEMORIAL SERVICE
FOR</b></div>
<div align="center" class="Body1" style="text-align: center;">
<b>REV. O.V. DODSON<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div align="center" class="Body1" style="text-align: center;">
<b>FEB 14, 2013<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div align="center" class="Body1" style="text-align: center;">
<b>WILLARD, MO<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
Today is
a day when lovers exchange cards, flowers, gifts. When those whose heart beat as one, celebrate
their love and shout to the world their love, commitment, desire for one
another. Today, I
want to talk about a love story. A love
story that includes Orville Verdayne Dodson (O.V.). </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
But this
is not a love story surrounded</div>
<div class="Body1">
with the
people he pastored or cared for</div>
<div class="Body1">
with his
many grandchildren and great grandchildren</div>
<div class="Body1">
with his
step-children</div>
<div class="Body1">
with
Janice</div>
<div class="Body1">
with
Brian and Dana</div>
<div class="Body1">
with
Sharon or Butch</div>
<div class="Body1">
This is
not a love story surrounded even with Elaine. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
Those are
love stories of the heart and dear ones, we could talk for days on end of O.V.'s love for you and your love for him. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
Rather, I
will tell of a love story of the soul. A
song that plays not for a few days, but one that continues through
eternity. A sonnet that reaches to the
very depths of where one lives, breathes, exists: the love story of O.V. Dodson
and Jesus; The picture of O.V.'s life could be filled with images of his
preaching, praying, countless hours visiting those who were ill or sitting with
those mourning holding their hands and hearts.
No, the depiction of O.V. is best captured by his love, his deep love for
Jesus. <b>His desire to love God and love
others.</b> <b>His desire to serve God and serve others. His desire to point people to
the grace of God as expressed through hope in Jesus. </b> </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
According
to official records, O.V. was 99 when he died.
O.V. counted the day of his birth as his first birthday, so when you asked
him how old he was, he would reply that he was 100. I think he did this just to get a reaction
from Janice. O.V. certainly stirred ones heart and brought about a reaction. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
O.V. Dodson
was man of who deeply loved and was loved
deeply. He was also a man who could not drive.
If you rode with him, you typically did it once and your prayer life
increased. He loved many people into the
arms of Jesus and might have scared a few into His arms as well. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
His
prayer life was legendary. He told me
once that he did not keep a prayer list but rather simply prayed for those whom
the Lord placed on his heart. And the
heart of O.V. was tremendous. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man
accomplishes much. If O.V. Dodson prayed
for you, you were indeed being brought into the presence of The Lord. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
O.V. prayed
and walked; 5 miles a day up into his 90's.
In fact, he was prayer walking before it was called prayer walking. He was 99, or if you use O.V. math, 100. He did a lot of things before they were in
vogue. One time I asked him what life
was like before TV, he replied "TV? I can tell you what life was like before
radio!"</div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
The
experiences he had riding in the families Model T from MO to ID, jumping a
train and getting kicked off in Kansas City, teaching school, playing offensive
tackle in football, seminary, marriage, kids and grand kids and great-grand kids,
the crackers he carried with him in case restaurants did not have them, his great love of food and the strange ways
he mixed them together, the 58 year marriage with Elaine, the 17 year
marriage with Janice point to the
remarkable life he lived. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
His life
was full and filled with experiences you and I will never have, save one. In the spring of 1933, he surrendered his
life to Christ and soon thereafter, to the ministry. As O.V. grew into The Lord, his love of
scripture grew. Ps 121 was a particular favorite. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b>Psalm121<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b>1 I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence
cometh my help.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b>2 My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and
earth.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b>3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth
thee will not slumber.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b>4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor
sleep.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b>5 The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy
right hand.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b>6 The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by
night.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b>7 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall
preserve thy soul.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b>8 The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in
from this time forth, and even for evermore.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
As you
think about this scripture, the writer is lifting his eyes while in a valley,
while surrounded by those who wish to do him harm. In military tactics, you want the high
ground. When the enemy is above you,
they have the advantage; you are more susceptible to attack. When the enemy has you surrounded and you are
in the low position, you need reinforcements.
</div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
There was
a time when O.V. was <b>surrounded</b>,
when the witnesses around him were not the ones encouraging him to continue,
but the voices telling him to quit, stop, give up hope. He was in the valley
and the enemy of depression desired to invade and conquer his life. His beloved
wife, Elaine, died. He was heartbroken. </div>
<div class="Body1">
Jan 2,
1995:</div>
<div class="Body1">
<i>My dearest darling wife, how, after more than 7 months, I
miss you still, I'm sure I always will.
This afternoon, Sharon and Dana came by after an afternoon of shopping.
Dana had several garments to show me; she was so excited and proud. I oohed and awed over them, thinking of how
you would have gone on about nice and neat they were. I am so thankful to be able to share their
joys, always remembering so vividly and how much you enjoyed our relationship
with them. My joy is dampened because
you are not here to share with us and I cant bring you back, but I can come to
be with you and our dear Lord who saw us through 58 years together. Maybe it will be soon. In the meantime, my heart grieves and I shed
tears, but that will all be gone then.
Until that time, I keep plugging along.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
O.V. was in
a valley of grief. And as he looked to
the hills and asked where does his help come from, he knew, in this love story,
his help comes from The Lord!</div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
God
indeed preserved his going out and his coming in. O.V. desired his life to be a reflection of the
light of Christ. His life was
surrounded, consumed, by his hope in Christ.
And that is, really, all that we have.
If our hope is in anything other than Christ, we will be
disappointed. I can say with certainty,
that O.V.'s identity was not in who he was, or his name or anything other than
Christ. His identity was most assuredly
in Christ. He trusted, to the fullest,
that God would provide for him in ways that were beyond comprehension. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
In the
midst of the battle, when all seems lost, darkness and weeping may last for the
night, but we can take great confidence that joy does, indeed, come in the
morning. </div>
<div class="Body1">
</div>
<div class="Body1">
The
second part of the journal entry: </div>
<div class="Body1">
Mar 10,
2010</div>
<div class="Body1">
<i>I had no idea what was ahead, but God did. He revealed it sooner than I realized He
would, for in 1995, He brought Janice to my attention soon after her husband,
Johns death. Somehow in His own good
way, our minds and hearts blended. So, on Dec 30, 1995, we publicly exchanged
marriage vows and have had 15 (17) good years together. Praise and thank God for His ministry to a
grieving heart.</i> O.V. Mar 20, 2010</div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
O.V. experienced first hand the deliverance and the hope of The Lord. His life was filled with this promise; grace
and mercy of The Lord were with him. </div>
<div class="Body1">
God's
love, sacrifice, goodness, and kindness kept O.V. plugging along. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
Even in a
place where he was surrounded, his HOPE was in The Lord for his
restoration. His love story is what
carried him through the night until joy returned in the morning. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
O.V. was a
godly man and his love story was one of faith.
I am confident that had he lived during the period scriptures were
written, we might have Romans, 1 Cor, 2 Cor, 1 O.V., 2 O.V. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
His life
was a life of faith that was found in the perfect and long-suffering grace of
Christ. </div>
<div class="Body1">
Although
he was not known as a patient man--when it was time to go, it was time to go!</div>
<div class="Body1">
But, he
was patient with Janice when she went shopping.
Janice would go into a store and O.V .would sit in the food court and very
soon, he would start a conversation and hand them one of his cards. On the back of the card are written "Ten
things I have learned in 99 years." (or 100 according to O.V.):</div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->love is the supreme virtue</div>
<div class="Body1" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->family is of great importance</div>
<div class="Body1" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->God and His will are vital for
personal fulfillment</div>
<div class="Body1" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->things are no guarantee of
happiness</div>
<div class="Body1" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->5.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->honesty really is the best
policy</div>
<div class="Body1" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->6.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->God keeps His promises</div>
<div class="Body1" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->7.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Life is in God's hands</div>
<div class="Body1" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->8.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Learning is a life long
process (I'm still learning)</div>
<div class="Body1" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->9.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->God's divine providence is
beyond comprehension</div>
<div class="Body1" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->10.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Ones only hope of eternal
security is God's grace through Jesus</div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b>Hebrews 12<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b>Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses
surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so
easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before
us, 2 [a]fixing our eyes on Jesus, the [b]author and perfecter of faith, who
for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat
down at the right hand of the throne of God.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
O.V. ran
for many years, in 1978 he ran 1100 miles. At some point, he transitioned from
running to walking. On average, he walked about 1100 miles a year. Now using O.V. math, 1100x100 means he walked
110,000 miles. The circumference of the
earth is 24000 miles. He walked around
the earth 4.5 times. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
He was
not a fast mover, but he was a mover. In
a race, no one remembers how you start but all look at how you finish. Sometimes, people don't finish, they quit,
they give up, they look up and the hills that surround them are overwhelming;
their eyes no longer look up to the hills and ask where their help comes from,
their eyes are downcast. Their heart,
desire, perseverance stops. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
Not
O.V. He ran with endurance, he walked
with purpose, he served with compassion, he preached fervently, he loved
deeply. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
O.V. kept a
journal. He chronicled his life experiences; from the mundane to the
thrilling. </div>
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His last
entry was Jul 27 and all it said was Bible and Prayer. O.V.s love story is surrounded and kept true
by scripture and communion with God. His
story is one of love for <b>Jesus, the
author and perfecter of faith.</b><b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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O.V.'s
love story of the soul does not end on Feb 10th. The conclusion is not with his last
breath. Indeed, loved ones, Rev. O. V.
Dodson's love story begins with these words:</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i>"His master
replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a
few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your
master's happiness!'<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-67848490977147882552012-11-27T22:37:00.000-08:002012-11-28T08:12:04.222-08:00The InjuryIn the blink of an eye. No. In an instant, in the moment it takes you to go from vertical to horizontal with a 500 pound motorcycle crushing your foot and tearing the most vital ligament in your metatarsals, it happened. I lay there with the bike on top of me. That's what I remember. I lifted the bike off of me. Parked it back in the garage and went to the ER. I had to wait a week for the swelling to subside before I saw the orthopedist. He confirmed the worst news: I had several cracked bones and the lis-franc ligament was torn. That ligament basically holds the foot together. Not supports some of it or helps out the others. This is the main one. He stated that my foot will never be the same, running will be difficult for me and in essence my marathon days are over. <br />
<br />
<i>I remember that moment I decided to run my first marathon. I was having dinner with a friend who was signed up for the Marine Corps Marathon. He had injured his ankle and was unable to run. He transferred his race entry to me (I'm not a bandit!). </i><br />
<br />
The doctor left. Thoughts swirling, feelings going every which way. Numb. Surgery was scheduled for the next day. I had been told to prepare for possible surgery that day (no food or coffee after midnight). Now I was told to prepare for surgery for the next day (no food or coffee after midnight). Ugh.<br />
<br />
<i>Miles 18-22 were the toughest. Haynes Point. Lonely. Windy. Cold. Had to pee. Then coming around the corner, I saw the crowd. Cheering and yelling and spurring me on. Tears formed. Strength renewed. Just a few more miles to go. </i><br />
<br />
Surgery was uneventful, at least for the surgical team. I now had three screws in my foot. It took quite awhile for the anesthetic to wear off. The ride home was uneventful, at least for me! Since then, I have sat in my recliner with my foot in the air. I usually go outside and sit in the Sun for a bit. Make some phone calls, email (work and personal, check Facebook). Sitting here is the toughest. I want to start rehab. I want the physical therapist to yell at me. I want to move my foot and make it hurt. I want to run.<br />
<br />
<i>Just a half mile to go. Uphill to the Iwo Jima Monument. A burst of speed and I ran across the finish line. A Marine placed a finishers medal around my neck. My son was there to congratulate me (and help me back to the hotel and car.) He told me he was proud of me. That is what I remember. </i><br />
<br />
I will recover from this injury. It is not a matter of IF I will, I know I will. That friends, is not a matter of over-confidence, that is the truth. As one friend put it "You've beaten the odds before and you will beat them again." and another friend, "Suck it up Buttercup." Indeed I will. But I am not fooling myself. The road to recovery will be tough, it will be painful and I may not be the same runner as I was once was (not that I was fast by any means) but I also know that I will not travel this road alone. I have you. (a special shout-out to my wife: she has been so wonderful in taking care of me, has not complained, has helped me every hop of the way--she is a blessing!). You will encourage me to push and you will encourage me to slow down. <br />
<br />
You will encourage me to...Keep Running!<br />
God's Peace,<br />
SteveSteve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-90983979181885860672012-09-02T07:50:00.001-07:002012-09-02T07:50:26.743-07:00So There I Was...Climbing Saddle MountainSo there I was climbing Saddle Mountain, leading a tour of school kids from the School for the Blind and Deaf up the mountain when all of a sudden a bear jumps out of the woods. I've read that when encountering a bear, one does not need to outrun the bear, only those one is with. Man, those little kids were fast! <br />
<br />
As the truth goes, the day was clear, the temperature was near perfect and I was running up the mountain. Running! Saddle Mountain is about a 4 mile hike up and back. I was about an 1/8 of a mile from the top, the summit, the peak, the goal, when I encountered a fallen tree across the trail. As I hit my head on the tree, I glanced a branch and sliced open my head. I fell to the ground and blood began pouring out. Not a trickle, not a little blood but a very steady stream. As the warm liquid violently left my body, I thought for a moment this might be it. If I cant get the bleeding to slow or stop, I know what happens. Rescue would be at least 30 minutes away (at the fastest) and that might not be soon enough. I sat there watching my life pour out of my body. Scary! I yelled for my hiking buddy (a lesson here is never hike alone!) who came running to me. We were able to stop the bleeding and with my partners help made it down the mountain and to the emergency room. I received 15 staples and will have a very cool scar for the rest of my life.<br />
<br />
How did this happen? Simple. I ran with my head head down and did not see the obstacle. The military has a term called situational awareness or SA for short; basically keeping focus. I lost my SA for just a brief moment and paid the price. I failed to look ahead and was quite surprised when I sat on the ground watching my blood stream out of my head. Have you lost your SA? Have you been going through life with your head down? I'd encourage you to look up. There might be a tree with your name on it, waiting to slice you open, knock you down. And most importantly, you are not alone. "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death (deepest darkness) I will fear no evil for You (God) are with me." You are never alone. <br />
<br />
I'll make a full recovery but I will always have a scar to remind me of that day when I was on the ground watching the very essence of my life leave me. My scar will remind me to keep my head up, look ahead and most importantly...<br />
<br />
Keep Running!<br />
SteveSteve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-50846699491517474742012-04-16T20:14:00.000-07:002012-04-16T20:14:30.769-07:00Heat, Hills and Hurt: Reflections on the St. Louis Marathon and Life<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The St. Louis Marathon was my sixth and arguable my most difficult race. Not my slowest or fastest but the most hot, hilly and hurtful. Running is not new to me. Many miles have been logged, I have more shoes than my wife, I know the terminology, I subscribe to two running magazines and have a slew of others in my favorites web site list. I was hoping for a PR (personal record to those in the know). My training was intense and purposeful, my diet was pretty good; I still need some tweaking in that area. My mental approach to the race was, I felt, very good: relaxed, strategic-steady pace, cut the tangents, run my race.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The temperature at the start of the race was 70 degrees. I had trained in temps around 40-50. The difference of 20-30 degrees was of great concern to me. I realized, however, there are some elements I can control, my training, diet, etc..., but there are some I cannot control: the weather and the course. Starting out it was hot and ending it was hot. A strong wind came up at several times and while I am usually not a fan of a headwind, I was thankful this time. The cooling effect was much appreciated.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">I had downloaded a map of the course and studied it in detail. I could tell you we would turn left, then right, right, left and right with a slight incline at mile 5 and so on. There were more turns at the beginning of the course. I didn't realize the length of the hills on the second half of the course. I saw the elevation chart but the hills didn't look all that challenging. And in retrospect they weren't all that daunting. I've ran hills, trained on hills, ran hill repeats. I was ready for them, or so I thought. Typically, a runner bemoans an uphill and is thankful for a downhill. Not in my case for this past race. I was happy for the uphill and cringing on the downhills. Sometimes the things that we do not enjoy are actually better for us than the easier circumstances we seek.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">My split time at the half marathon point was 1:59:12. My PR for a half is 1:58:00. I was in great shape at the halfway point: on target for a marathon PR of less than 4 hours, my pace was consistent, breathing and muscles were not being pushed hard at all. Then mile 15 happened. In one moment, my hopes of a faster time were dashed. In one moment my body cried out to me. In one moment I had to consider quitting the race. And that my friends is something I am loathe to do! I had trained hard, I had traveled halfway across the country, I had studied nutrition and strategy, my mental state was right where I wanted it to be. Quitting a race for me is not an option, but I had to consider it. At mile 15, my IT band, or so I think (I'm going to a doctor later this week) snapped. The pain was sharp and intense. Every time my left leg impacted the ground, a pain rushed up and down my leg. My IT band had given me troubles over the past month and a half and I thought I had taken proper care of it. Apparently not. I had joked with friends that all I needed was for the leg to make it to mile 20 and I could hop from there. I didn't realize the event would happen with 11.2 miles to go (yes, that .2 is important). I slowed my pace from an 8:45 minute mile to an 11:30 and essentially ran up the hills and walked down them. I stopped and stood at one point. When I started up, I cried out in pain and in tears. This was mile 20. Mile 21 found a medic on a bike following me for about a half mile. I quit crying. I came around a corner and a volunteer told me you can see the finish line. There it was. Glorious. Completion. Finish line! I ran faster, ran harder, ran with purpose. I crossed the line in pain, but I crossed. I could barely move, the pain was intense. When they placed the medal around my neck, I almost fell over. I made my way to the rest tent and sat down, drank some water and expressed thanks that I was done.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Our lives can be hot. We may find ourselves in circumstances in which we are not prepared for, but just wait, the Father of all Good things, will send a breeze to cool you. The wind may appear at first, to be a curse, but in it He provides a blessing.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Our lives can be hilly. We may have studied the map but nothing compares to running the course. And, in the end, the up-hills may provide more comfort and benefit than the down-hills.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Our lives can be hurtful. Injuries are often an indication of something deeper. I can google and self diagnose all day long, but in the end, I need a doctor to examine my leg and maybe send me to a specialist for further evaluation. If you're hurt, ask what else is going on? What is it that is causing the Hurt? Oh, and don't google it, seek the counsel of an expert.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">In the end, the race was run and I received the medal. This marathon wasn't the prettiest but it was completed and sometimes, in the face of heat, hills and hurt, that is the true accomplishment.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Keep Running!<span><span style="background-color: #b45f06;"><span style="background-color: #783f04;"><span style="background-color: black;"><span style="background-color: #b45f06;"></span></span></span></span></span></span>Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-33810569369259746372012-01-22T12:37:00.000-08:002012-01-22T12:37:54.760-08:00Cramps on the RunRunning tests who you are: your desire, your commitment, your willingness to sacrifice, your passion, your body, your mind and especially your spirit. As a runner, I have encountered many difficulties. IT band syndrome, plantar fasciitis, lost several toenails, sore knees, dehydration, pulled muscles and a pinched sciatic nerve. Those all hurt in one form or another but the most frustrating injury one is when I get a cramp. Several years ago I pinched my sciatic nerve (the worst pain I have ever experienced) and since then, my right calf has a tendency to cramp. I am aware of this and take measures to control it. I know what to do and more importantly what not to do in order to avoid the cramping. <div><br />
</div><div>Yesterday I went to run a quick ten miles. I had my warm-up planned and knew when I was ready to increase the pace. I encountered rain, wind and hail. For me that is motivational as I figure anyone can run on a nice day but it takes dedication (or foolishness) to run in nasty weather. My pace was quick, legs felt good and my breathing was well under control. At mile 5.31 I felt a twinge in my left calf, not the right one, not the one prone to cramping, but the good one, the calf I can rely on. And then, boom! A cramp. I slowed the pace and tried to stretch it out. I walked a bit but that did not help. I was able to jog very slowly until mile 7 and then walked the rest of the way home. I had to cut my run short and was much slower than I had wanted. </div><div><br />
</div><div>What causes a cramp? Dehydration, lack of nutrition, over use of the muscle and several other factors. My hydration and food intake for the week were not good. I'm pretty sure that was the issue. </div><div><br />
</div><div>How do you treat a cramp? When I got home I soaked my legs in an Epsom salt bath, used a foam roller and lacrosse ball and then put on some compression socks. Oh, and rest. Which is, for me, the most difficult.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Now, when you are going through life and get a "cramp", that is, an experience that forces you to slow down and maybe call for help, how do you get through it? Maybe soak yourself in God's Word (there is nothing sweeter), talk to a trusted friend for some external perspective and get a hug from a loved one. Oh, and some rest.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Keep Running!</div><div>Steve</div>Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-34651178053472630672012-01-10T21:10:00.001-08:002012-01-10T21:10:38.176-08:00The Wall<div class="Body1"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';">I am helping a friend train for her first marathon.</span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';">One of the questions she asked was how to train in order to avoid the wall.</span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';">I told her "You don't."</span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';">You will hit the wall or rather, the wall hits you.</span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';">Typically, the test comes anywhere from 18-22 miles.</span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';">Up to that point the race has been fun.</span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';">Seriously, there are bands, people in costumes, folks cheering you on.</span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';">But, when that moment hits, and you will know when it does, play time is over.</span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';">Now it is a test of the will; the desire to continue on in the face of adversity.</span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';">Overcoming circumstances.</span><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';"> </span></div><div class="Body1"><br />
</div><div class="Body1"><span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">What is the wall? The "wall" is that point in a marathon where your energy is gone, your muscles want to quit, you ask why you are doing this and the will to continue is tested. It is the most difficult point in the race, in fact this is the point where many people quit. Getting through the wall comes down to desire. During my last marathon at about mile 23, I said to myself "Alright, you've got this." A runner next to me said something encouraging, gave me a fist bump and then ran to the side and vomited. Not what I was expecting but that little bit of encouragement helped me. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Body1"><br />
</div><div class="Body1"><span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">When you encounter the wall you want to quit. When you encounter the wall, you know the finish line is close. When you encounter the wall, you have an opportunity to do something great.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Body1"><br />
</div><div class="Body1"><span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Life is like that isn't it? You hit the wall physically, emotionally, mentally and/or spiritually. You have run the race for so long you are tired, exhausted actually. Loss of a loved one, relationship ended, lost job, financial difficulties, loneliness, question your faith? Whatever your wall is, be encouraged to continue on, get up every morning and go through your day, have a cup of coffee with a friend, call someone you haven't spoken with in awhile and put a smile on their face. Eventually the wall will fade and you will have made it through another race. The best way I have found to conquer the wall is simply:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Body1"><br />
</div><div class="Body1"><span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">KEEP RUNNING!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Body1"><span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS";">Steve<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="Body1"><br />
</div>Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-68766382205349215452012-01-08T08:44:00.001-08:002012-01-08T08:45:22.065-08:00Joy Comes in the Mourning<div class="MsoNormal">I have experienced loss this week. My wife's (and mine) Aunt Laura passed away. She was a dear sweet lady with a smile on her face, a twinkle in her eye and a love for Jesus in her heart. We saw her last year and simply enjoyed her company. She was a blessing! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Psalm 30:5 states "For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning." The verse is using two parallels: God's anger is short lived but His love is forever and our grief only lasts a short time but joy in Him is everlasting.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I spelled the title with the word "mourning" on purpose. Let me explain. First, I do not want to mis-interpret the scripture and certainly I do not want to add to or take away from God's word, but, as I thought about the contradiction that hurt lasts for the night and when the light arrives, there will be joy, it occurred to me that love does not exist without grief and grief does not exist without love. For instance, when I hear of a death of someone I did not know, I do not really grieve for that person or that family. Sure, I am sorry for their loss, but I do not feel a sense of loss. However, when a close friend or a family member dies, I hurt, I weep, I miss them. Grief only happens when we lose something important or more importantly someone. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Joy comes in the mourning because we loved and cared and regarded that relationship as important and valuable. We weep because that person deeply affected our lives in significant and meaningful ways. And that is where joy is in the mourning. When we lose someone, we can rejoice in the gift they were to us, we can offer thanks for the time we had with them and we can (HERE IS A BIG ONE) give forgiveness for the times they hurt us. As the Light of Christ surrounds and comforts your heart, joy does indeed come in the mourning.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">Keep Running!</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">Steve</div>Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-73946582063557694222011-12-30T20:10:00.000-08:002011-12-30T20:43:37.242-08:00Why We Make Resolutions!Why We Make Resolutions <br />
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The week between Christmas and New Years is a dangerous time. We have opened gifts, spent time with family and have indulged our senses. Reality sets in in a few days; a new year, a time to start over, an opportunity to be a better you. I do not like resolutions! For me, resolutions last about a week and are temporary. I have made the same ones we all make: lose weight, read more, spend more time with family, strive for world peace, blah, blah, blah. I start out with the best of intentions but then the commitment to the change is over within a week and my old ways resurface.<br />
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Christmas 2010 was a great one. I spent time with family, saw people I hadn't seen in years, and ate way too much. When we arrived home I stepped onto the scale. On Jan, 2, 2011, Steve Mills weighed 209 pounds. In the past when I have decided to drop some pounds, I would start the following Monday. In between the decision and the start date, I would eat all of the things I knew I was going to miss. Not this time! I decided right there and then to lose weight. Why was this time different? Why would I stick to my commitment now when so many times in the past I would fail? This time, I was losing fat for me. No one else. Losing fat and getting healthy was what I needed to do for me. My motivation was internal. I determined this was not a change that would last one year but would continue for a lifetime. Along the journey, someone asked me how long I was going to change my eating habits and eat healthy. I replied until I die.<br />
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The reason we make resolutions is simple: we do it because we want to effect a change in our life. We resolve to act or live differently because we do not like the way things have been. Do you like who you are? Are you comfortable with how you are? Is there something you would change about yourself given the opportunity? The frustrating part is we try to change the external part of who we are because we do not like the internal in hopes that people will like or love us. Cant do it. We paint the exterior of the house in hopes that the interior will get cleaned and when people drive by they will comment on wonderful the house looks. When we can truly learn to love the internal aspect of who we are, then the exterior will take care of itself. <br />
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I have lost a total of 27 pounds this year. Several people have commented on my external appearance of weight loss. The only reason is that I changed the internal. <br />
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I'm not making any resolutions this year but am going to do my best to love God will all of my heart, soul and mind and love others as I love myself.<br />
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Keep Running!<br />
SteveSteve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-78726124586035204832011-12-23T19:24:00.001-08:002011-12-23T19:24:44.881-08:00The Truth about Rudolph<div class="Body1">At Christmastime, when I was a child, I remember putting the Christmas album on the turntable and helping decorate the tree and the house. One of my favorite songs was Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. While listening to the song the other day, it struck me that no one liked Rudolph for who he was "The other reindeer never let Rudolph join in any reindeer games" and "Rudolph with your nose so bright, won't you guide my sleigh tonight." are two very important phrases in the song.. Only when he was able to do something, was he liked. First though, a red light is very inefficient for lighting the way. When deployed on a ship, at night, red lights are used to read because they do not illuminate and cause night blindness. Second, if the red light were bright enough for Rudolph to actually light they way, the position of his nose would blind him and hinder his vision. </div><div class="Body1"><br />
</div><div class="Body1">Do you like people for who they are or for what they can do for you? The golden rule comes to mind: Do unto others as you have them do unto you. No one really wants to be hated or abused or ignored. Some may act that way, but truly deep down where our self esteem resides, we want to be loved and care for and accepted. Here's a test: when you encounter someone who is rude, ask "What else is going on?" Oh, trust me, when I come across someone who is treating me with rudeness, I want to retaliate, I want to strike back with the same attitude. But maybe, just maybe they need some grace; I know I do! Perhaps loving and liking people for who are they are and not what they can do for us is a lesson we can all use; not just Santa and the other reindeer. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="Body1"><br />
</div><div class="Body1">Keep Running,<o:p></o:p></div><div class="Body1">Steve<span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: #0400; mso-bidi-language: X-NONE; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: #0400;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-68810750592970186582011-12-18T14:18:00.001-08:002011-12-18T14:18:22.335-08:00I cavedTssssst. That is a sweet sound. While getting ready to board a flight, something red and white caught my eye. I stopped, looked and bought a coca-cola. Not diet mind you, this was the real thing: high fructose corn syrup and all. I hadn't had a soda for 34 days. That first taste was amazing. I almost apologized to the bottle for abandoning it and promised to never leave it again. Then, as I continued to drink, the sweet, sugary liquid began to settle in my tummy and I just didn't feel quite right. No pain, but certainly not 100%.<br />
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Just that morning, the weight scale read its lowest in years. I had lost a total of 27 pounds for the year. Why oh why would I sabotage all of my hard work? Weakness. Craving. Who knows, but what I do know is one failure will not define my determination to live healthy. One moment of giving in to a chemically induced drink that only tricks me into drinking more will not be my pattern of life.<br />
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What is it that tricks you? Has someone told you you were never good enough; that you just didn't measure up? And now you try to fill that void with food, drinks, friends. You desperately seek acceptance from relationships that only hurt you. You seek laughter in t.v., movies, music. You seek love but only find disgust.<br />
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Oh, that first sound is amazing and that first drink is sweet and sugary, but soon, there is a feeling in your soul that doesn't seem quite right. Don't be defined by your failures. Seek friends that love you for who you are. There are many who like you for what you can do for them. Be nice and serve them with a genuine heart, but don't let them define your worth. <br />
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Keep Running,<br />
SteveSteve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-86460233089134744662011-12-05T06:36:00.001-08:002011-12-05T06:36:52.042-08:00Who am I?A few months ago, I went to a leadership course. One of my classmates gave a presentation and referenced the song "Who am I?" by Casting Crowns. He asked the question about himself and those of us in the class.<br />
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Who am I?<br />
I am a Christ-follower: I was called out of my despair and despondency and given a new lease on life. My burden of sin and guilt was replaced with the holiness and grace of Christ. <br />
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I am a United States Navy Chaplain: I have served our country for twenty years. I have deployed to South Korea, the Mediterranean, the Persian Gulf and Iraq. I have led others to Christ, I have baptized, I have served communion, I have been with people in their darkest hours and with them in their most joyful times. I listen to them, I care for them, I love them. I do my very best to not judge any realizing that, while Christ is my righteousness, I am still a man who falls short of His glory and am no better than anyone else.<br />
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I am a husband: for 24 years I have held my beloveds hand and heart. We have shared some great moments and some not so great moments. While not always the husband I should have been or should be today, I love my wife with everything within me. If anyone were to attack her, I will defend her to the death. I would gladly give my life in place of hers. I will stand beside her, I will support her, I will love her not only until death do us part, but to infinity and beyond!<br />
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I am a daddy: I have a tremendous son. A son who is the apple of my eye and the joy in my heart. He is adopted; chosen if you will by the gracious Lord to be in my life. An extra special miracle was turned into an extra special blessing when he entered my life. We have laughed. We have cried. We have prayed. We have worshipped Christ. I am a father to a son who is a blessing to others.<br />
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I have a beautiful daughter. She brings light and joy to all she encounters. We have played silly games, told jokes only we think are funny, and have spent many hours on the playground. When she was born, I asked the doctor "what is it?" He replied sarcastically "A baby.". "Yes, I know, but what kind of baby?" "A girl baby.". A girl! My heart exploded. I am a father to a little girl. She is married now, but she will always be the little girl who can convince me to eat ice cream before dinner, who can, with just a look, get her way and who will always bring a smile to my heart.<br />
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I am a father in law: There is only one man worthy to be my daughters husband and she found him. His character runs deep and is a reflection of his Heavenly Father. I always look forward to spending time with him. My daughter chose well!<br />
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I am a brother: Each one of my siblings holds a special place in my heart. <br />
I am a son: My parents, Okies to the core, shaped me to be who I am. Without their influence, without their encouragement, without their challenges I would not be who I am today. They were not perfect. Neither was I. In my most difficult period of life (when I was unable to walk for five years), they never let me use that as an excuse for not living life. Certainly there were things I could not do, but they never told me about them.<br />
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Who am I? I am a man who desires to love God with all of his heart, soul and mind and love others as I love myself. <br />
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That's who I am. Who are you?<br />
Keep Running!Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-55161943883400973182011-12-01T16:48:00.000-08:002011-12-01T17:10:58.868-08:00BasketballI'm not very good at basketball. Not good at dribbling, cant shoot for anything (I'm left handed and right eyed) and my defense is somewhat lacking. I play pickup ball on Tues and Thurs at lunchtime. The other day, while I was open underneath the basket, my teammate passed to the ball to me. I immediately elevated to my standard 6 inch vertical jump and attempted a shot. Once the ball was stripped and the other team ran down the court, I told my teammate who threw the ball to me that if I am under the basket and open, it is only for show. Today, my teammate faked throwing the ball to me and then decided to throw it to me. If my nose had hands, I would have caught the ball. Thankfully it only bounced off of my face and into the opponents hands. No blood but I do have a red mark on my nose. No, I am not very good at basketball, but I love the interaction with the people, I love the workout and love learning things about the folks with whom I play. There are times in life when we aren't very good at it. We could simply not play or give up and quit. Or we could run up and down the court and play. Yes, you might get hit or have the ball stuffed but at least you are out there, playing, interacting. You can sit back and watch others engage in life, or you can step up and get on the court and have some fun. <br />
Keep Running,<br />
SteveSteve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-46746393706700428842011-11-27T11:48:00.000-08:002011-11-27T11:48:37.643-08:00Stale FuelI own a 1999 Yamaha 350 Big Bear Quad. I took it out riding for the last time this season about a month ago. While on a trail, the engine ran rough and at times stalled; not a good thing when you are on a steep trail. Then, at one point the battery died. I had to use the pull start to get going again. I discovered that my fuel was stale and old and the battery had no juice left. My quad has been designed and engineered to ride on trails, go over obstacles and through mud. When the fuel is stale and old, the engine will not have the power to do those things. When the fuel is no good, the quad will stall and sputter; sometimes in the most difficult and dangerous places. <br />
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Our bodies have been designed and engineered to take us places. When we put stale fuel in our body, when we eat chemicals in place of real food, we will stall and sputter. Wonder why you have aches and pains? Wonder why you're body is tired all the time? Fuel! The old saying "You are what you eat" is true. Being fit and in shape is 80% food and 20% exercise. Yes, I am on a soapbox, no I have not always and even now do not eat healthy all the time. Yes, these words are difficult to hear, no, I will not stop. 11 years ago I weighed 246 pounds. I lost 66 pounds. Earlier this year I began to creep back up. On Jan 2, I tipped the scales at 209. Enough! Time to take care of this once and for all. Exercise and nutrition were key for me. Successes include losing 24 pounds so far, no soda for over a month and getting off of Lipitor and lowering my cholesterol. Failures are many and setbacks are at every corner. However, I will not allow those to define me. I have committed to eating well so that I can enjoy life, so that as I grow older, I will not need medicine to get me going or stop me up. <br />
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Spiritually, do you experience anxiety more than peace, frustration more than patience? The answer is simple: FUEL! I heard a pastor say once "If you want more faith, then you need more Jesus in your life. Dr. Phil and Oprah or Matthew, Mark, Luke and John? Perhaps the reason you struggle, sputter and fail is due to stale fuel in your life. Have you found yourself out of fuel in a difficult and dangerous place? Temptation, traps and turmoil? The Word of God is living, breathing and full of life; never stale and never out of power. <br />
Keep Running,<br />
SteveSteve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-69295080829032013832011-11-26T09:29:00.000-08:002011-11-26T09:29:45.247-08:00Why I run.I remember in Kindergarten running around like a crazy man. Yelling, screaming having a great time. I then remember going to the doctor and being told I had some disease (Leggs-Perthes) in my hips. I was admitted to the hospital and my legs were put in traction. 5 years old. I could no longer walk. The hospital bed contained me for two weeks. It was there I learned to whistle. Apparently I pushed the call button too many times. Unfortunately, the only whistle I knew was the cat-call; probably taught to me by my brothers. So, when a nurse would walk by, I would whistle a cat-call. She would come in and I would ask for ice cream. Never mind that it was only 6 am. A cast from navel to my feet was the next treatment. I think that lasted for 6 weeks. Then, a wheelchair. A wheelchair. That lasted for the next 5 years. Not until the middle of 4th grade was I able to get up and use those legs to run around and act crazy. Not until I was ten years old was I able to ride a bike, go out for a pass, play hide and seek effectively (hiding is tough when you're in a wheelchair) run from my siblings, or simply run because I could. What a glorious day. I remember the day my dad came home from work and knelt at one end of the hallway. I got up out of my chair and walked towards him; into his arms. <br />
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Why do I run? Because I can. Running is a gift. When we lose something valuable we have feeling of regret. We wish we would have had more time with a loved one or not taken a friendship or relationship for granted. I have been told by some doctors to not run. And I quote "Your running days are over." Never! My running days have just began. I had lost my ability to run. I value every moment I can walk, every time I can run and every opportunity to run around like a crazy man.<br />
Keep Running!<br />
SteveSteve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8337087679739401074.post-1960999211494430292011-11-25T20:01:00.000-08:002011-11-25T20:01:35.935-08:00A ChallengeI have thought about starting a blog for quite some time. I will share stories, successes, failures and encouragement. I hope this will be a place where we can spur each other in this journey we call life. <div>More to come.</div><div>Keep Running,</div><div>Steve</div>Steve Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02464217965337423807noreply@blogger.com0