After riding the up and down waves of 2012 I'm ready to face 2013 as a year to do more than just coast. I'm upgrading from flotsam (floating wreckage of a ship or its cargo) to a handmade canoe by committing to running a half marathon!
I’m not just committed to this half marathon for its obvious health and fitness challenges and benefits, but because I’m committing myself to all our inspiring and powerful community leaders. Some of whom are also feisty, fun-loving and fierce elders that remind me of my grandma, who recently passed. It is with them in mind and all the struggles they’ve endured for future generations, which is really why this half marathon is so meaningful to me. (That and the challenge to keep up with this 76 year old member who at this moment in time can definitely outrun me around Lake Merritt)
One night, while I was still on the fence about running and debating whether the 5 k, relay or half marathon was the right level of challenge for myself, one of my cousins jokingly said “well, whatever distance you choose, I will donate $5 for every mile you run”….well, Hoyin—I’m holding you to it! Who’s with him?!
You can just chip in a dollar to make sure our monolingual Chinese-speaking members receiving printed handouts, in language, on campaigns to win affordable housing projects in our neighborhood. Or maybe you can spare $100 to sponsor a meeting where fierce and compassionate community leaders get together to figure out how to fight and win environmental justice campaigns locally and statewide?
Can't you spare the cost of a cup of coffee or pair of shoes to help me make sure that our communities are educated, empowered and HEARD.
This year and this half marathon IS how I will grow my sea legs. I will "paddle" to the world we all want to live in where everyone has access to a clean, healthy and vibrant environment. This half marathon and all the training, dedication and discipline along the way will just be the beginning of how 2013, APEN and you all who support me will teach me to set sail for the life I intend to struggle for.