Tomorrow, you run. There’s no more practice. It’s game day.

It’s going to suck. But we all know how to embrace the suck, so rest assured you are well prepared.

Running a half is more than just mileage. More than an epic calorie burn. It’s a journey. One you’ve chosen to take together. Tomorrow, you will be reminded of who you are, who you wish you could be, who you’re happy you’re not. Tomorrow is an opportunity.

The great advantage of running together is that you’re actually not running for yourself at all. You’re running for the woman next to you. And when you tire, it will be her steady, reassuring cadence that will bring your feet back in line. And when she loses momentum, it will be your insistent foot falls that propel her forward. The beauty of that kind of together is that it is not about competition, but commitment.

Let the boys compete. You guys commit.

You will all push harder, longer, and faster if you are doing it for someone else. That’s just how we’re built.

Promise me, though, that you will cross the finish line for you. Allow yourself just a moment to fully feel all the pain, fatigue, elation, and pride. Be overwhelmed. In the life we live, we are so often asked to, no required to, minimize. There is little room or purpose in succumbing to pain and fatigue. Elation and pride are fleeting, replaced necessarily by acceptance, secrecy, and, above all else, duty. That finish line is your moment to experience everything…completely…without reservation or repercussion. Be unabashedly, shamefully, wildly whatever. And then go get a mimosa.

To the Ringleader — You are the reason. Your drive and determination directs this effort. The others will draw strength from your resilience and reach deep to match it.

To the Sleeper — You are the athlete. No matter what you say, your body will do what you command. You are always ready to go when it’s game time. You will be now too.

To the Newbie — You are the spirit. This is not a group for the weak or afraid. You are neither. That ferocity and deep desire just to experience, to live, will be the light you all need towards the end.

Please know that my heart is running with you, even though my legs cannot. And if there comes a time when all three of you falter, listen for my feet.

And slow the fuck down! Cuz I’m gonna be pissed if I have to chase you bitches up a hill! Especially since I can’t even drink the damn mimosa! ;)

Run well, ladies.

All the love. All the friendship. All the wine. Always.

— Jess