Because I Can

For the second time this week I was up this morning before 6:00am and out the door to go for a three mile run.  While at the oncologist Lynette asked if I should be running.  His reply was that prior to surgery running would not be a problem.  He added that as a runner himself he would tell her it is a waste of time trying to talk a runner out of running.  She would feel better beating her head against a wall.

I am often asked, why? Why would a guy just a couple of months short of 67 years old (ouch, that hurt to write) want to go out and run?  I cannot answer for others but the reason I run is because I can.  I may not be fast; I may not be graceful; but, I can run. 

It was December 11, 1994 when I suffered a major heart attack. Not a “severe chest pain, I can’t raise my arm” heart attack but a “60 seconds of V-fib, dead on the floor” myocardial infarction.  This is another story for another time but within 18 hours of the attack I had no less than three doctors and one nurse comment on the grace of God and miraculous healing.  

So, I run because I can.  And because I can, I look to God for the strength to endure this adventure in which I now find myself.

Tomorrow is the midpoint between confirmed diagnosis and surgery. This past week was spent at two doctors.  First the dermatologist to have a suspicious spot removed from the back of my hand.  Next was my GP for blood work, EKG, and chest x-ray.  Next week will be a CT scan.  All of this to determine that the melanoma is only on the retina and has not moved to other spots internally.

Reading scripture over the past few weeks I have come to identify with the prophet Habakkuk.  Even though he is considered a minor prophet his concluding three verses have become my anthem.

Habakkuk 3: 17-19

17 Though the fig tree should not blossom

And there be no fruit on the vines,

Though the yield of the olive should fail

And the fields produce no food,

Though the flock should be cut off from the fold

And there be no cattle in the stalls,

18 Yet I will exult in the Lord,

I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.

19 The Lord God is my strength,

And He has made my feet like hinds’ feet,

And makes me walk in my high places.