Target for Tonight ...

Target for Tonight is a phrase R.A.F. Bomber Command used to use before setting off on a mission in World War II against the bad guys. Those guys were tough, loyal, and resilient and committed to completing the mission.

I hope I can be like them Sunday. I have not had the best week of sleep between events, work, and just some nerves (plus stupidly drinking a sports drink right before trying to sleep!). So, Target for Tonight: SLEEP!

I have been trying to mentally prepare. I now am facing the idea of heat ... not a pleasant one.

Also, normally, this weekend I would be in Anaheim for the Religious Education Congress and right near my old native land ... and Servite. So, I am trying to do the next best thing ... bring Servite to me!

First, I found out a classmate is running as well. That's two of us! The brethren are present. if you are not a Friar, it does not make sense ... if you are ... well, you know.

Second, I am thinking back to how I did things at Servite Track. Different races; different strategies ... I remember some of the key moments and our training,. The Bowl. Glover. STICK! Hell Week. We were taught the mantras: Mind over Matter; If You Do Not Mind the Pain; It Does Not Matter. Mind Over Matter; if You Do Not Mind the Heat; It Does Not Matter. We were a pretty tough crew.

I also remember for whatever reason I always ran my best in the worst conditions: very hot, very "cold," or messed up track. I have no idea why; but, I did. It became a matter of pride!

I want to have that feeling Sunday. I am not bringing warm-up gear; I want to feel the "cold." I am 1/2 Canadian after all! My focus will be moving forward. I may struggle; but, I will work.

Servite sports also were big on team. LA Roadrunners is not quite there (we were basically brothers on the teams at Servite); but, it has some similarities.

I want to run to complete the ThinkCure! pledges and remember what happened in 2009. I want to be able to go past my old office where I was discarded like garbage ... and show them it did not break me. I will complete the Los Angeles Marathon.

I also remember the first time I ran a 3.5 at track I struggled; I struggled the last two miles of the 20-miler as well. But, I learned lessons. I am also feeling better now. I think I can do better.

I have also got a mental boost set-up. I do not think anyone will be there watching me; so, I will be my own support.

I am trying to do my best to eat right, drink the water, etc.; but, I also am doing my mental work.

For me, Servite is important. It taught me so much, besides academics.

On Sunday I will be thinking as a Friar once again.

DESIRE.

DEDICATION.

DETERMINATION.

DISCIPLINE.

WE ARE SERVITE.

CREDO.