I have completed several endurance races – marathons, triathlons, biathlons. Initially I took up running for vanity reasons, weight loss, but over the years, I realise there is so much to learn from this race of life.

Some friends commented that “it takes a masochist to do what you do.” There is the ongoing regime of spending one’s free time running, cycling, ploughing through the water. Not forgetting the days where friends are feasting away at the buffet while I have to be put through the “bird food” diet (a term coined for the bland food).

Finally the day of the marathon is here. Reaching the 20km mark, I felt the surge of energy arising in me. Each pace, every thought and every sweat tells me to press on towards the finishing line. It was a race that requires tremendous focus and will.

Just after my short euphoric moment, I felt myself hitting the wall within the next few kilometre. I replenished with drinks and gels, some stretching and when I recovered I pushed ahead. There are times in life when we are worn out and feel that we couldn’t pull through anymore, it is wise to heed the voice and replenish.

However there were other times of negative voices crying out “Give it up. You can’t do it anymore”. I’d call them “Mind Moments”. I had to shut out these voices and focus on the finishing line. Every stride became a mental battle. I had to will myself to do it.

At the 27km mark, I employed strategies to take my thoughts off the pain of this journey. I started to remember every individual who had contributed to my life. Thanking God for every individual who had believed in me and journeyed with me along this journey of life. To be grateful and thankful for the blessings in my life. This spurred me on.

We need relationships and they nourish our lives. Of course, bonding with the supporters along the way was essential. Some cheered, called out my number. There were the silent supporters who handed me chocolate bars, ice cubes and bananas. These gave me the extra strength which was much needed.

During this arduous journey, I remember the silent, painful and powerful solidarity which I shared with fellow runners. We brushed past each others. Sweaty arms, sand, some brightly decorated, others had an encouraging message on their bib. Yet we shared a common dream – The finishing line.

The pain and suffering is temporal but the glory is eternal. Keep believing. The final 2km came before I realised. The sense of joy and hope arose to a higher level. I quicken my pace in spite of the pain. Finally we were nearing the Padang.

The dream of the finishing line is a reality. The rain drops fell like showers of blessings. The cries of hurting toes, abrasions and muscle cramps were drowned out by the glorious reception (supporters and all screaming by the side).