JP Morgan Corporate Challenge 2016

" Don’t be anxious about things; instead,
pray. Pray about everything. 
He longs to hear your requests,
so talk to God about your needs
and be thankful for what has come. 
And know that the peace of God
(a peace that is beyond any and
all of our human understanding)
will stand watch over
your hearts and minds
in Jesus, the Anointed One. 
I can be content in any and every situation
through the Anointed One
​who is my power and strength."
Philippians 4:6-7, 13 Voice

Our school district is pretty cool (Is cool still a hip word? Wait, does anyone still use "hip"?) district and dedicates time and effort for staff synergy, team building, or fellowship - whatever term you prefer. Last night some of us participated in the JP Morgan Corporate Challenge in Syracuse, New York. Some of our MACS Peeps were in the top places, woo hoo! I was #2,126 out of almost 7,000 runners and walkers, with a time of 50 minutes and change. I'm tickled at my time for 3 1/2 miles. I even jogged a little.

My friends were warmed up and ready to run but I just couldn't do it so I encouraged them to go and I'd see them at the finish. I enjoyed the laughter, conversation, and fellowship of the entire afternoon and evening. Yet the moment I thought about as we drove home and the sun was setting, with beautiful transitions of color capturing our attention and stopping conversation, was my quiet time on the walk. You are probably wondering how you can have quiet time with almost 7,000 people running and walking all around you, but it's possible. The above verses from Philippians kept coming to mind. I found myself looking up and praying these verses over and over. 

Why do I share this with you? I'm not sure really, other than to encourage you it is possible to pray regardless of where you are and how many people are around. The time with friends and colleagues was great and memorable yet I woke up thinking about watching the clouds and these verses echoing in my thoughts. I'm thankful to have the best of both worlds, good friends and a great God.

To View JP Morgan Corporate Challenge Finishing Times - Click HERE

Today is a touch chilly and we have our "play days" at school. I hope the rain holds off so the kids can enjoy this, its a favorite tradition in our district. I have jeans, my fleece, and camera ready to celebrate play days. Remember to "sharpen your saw" (take care of yourself and do something you enjoy) and make memories. Heidi's kidnapping, cancer diagnosis', and tragedy remind me not to take anything for granted because tomorrow, or even a minute from now, are not a guarantee. 

What do you think about
​when you walk/run in a race like this?