Every now and then I pinch myself. I have the best wife in the world. Ironman is a very selfish sport. It can inspire people, change lives in fact. It can also ruin relationships, and has. This is a constant concern for me. In order to compete at the level I want, I have to put in an enormous amount of time and energy. Considering I don't get to do this sport for a living, this time and energy has to be done around work. And family. And friends, etc. When I met my current wife, we lived in separate cities. Training early in the morning and late at night during the week (before and/or after work) was no problem as we didn't see each other anyway. Well, then you fall in love. And you want to spend as much time as you can with that individual. Especially once you move in together and get married! Again, I'm a lucky man...my wife is awesome.
So, I'm in my build right now for IMCDA. The training is and will be intense for the next 2 months. Currently I'm in a solid block and am amazed that I'm still awake (it just turned 9pm). As soon as I'm done typing, it's lights out. So what does all of this have to do about my wife? Well, when you are in a big build like this and you don't want to get up at 5am to put in another session, it sure helps to have your wife there helping you get up in the morning! Yes, Meg gets up early throughout the week, which included this morning. So, I have my own personal alarm. Without her, I honestly don't know if I'm getting in my session this morning. I really don't. But that's what life is about. Sacrifice, and love.
Like I said earlier, ultimately this is a very selfish sport. I work more than most, and I train more than some people work. Not much time left for my wife, or anyone else in my life. And don't kid yourself...when I'm out there suffering in an Ironman...I think about those close in my life, but ultimately...you race for yourself. You race to test yourself. How fit did I get? How tough am I? Because of my wife, and other loved ones in my life, I'm stronger than I would be without you. Thanks for taking the time to read.
-T
It's difficult for me to express just how thankful I am to have a husband as supportive as you are - from doing the dishes to encouraging me to go out and swim, bike or run, you are an amazing husband. My life is better because you are in it, and although I try to express how much I appreciate you, I hope that I do an even better job of showing you. So, I will always be your alarm clock, your cheerleader, and your support crew because I love you, and that's the best way I know to tell you.
ReplyDeleteIt's funny, I was thinking about you guys this weekend and how happy it makes me that you found each other. More happy than I could ever say. Your partnership and support of each other is inspiring to watch. Love you both!
ReplyDelete