i found the perfect pacer

in continuation of the “crew is key” post, let’s touch on one member of the crew - the pacer.

on a long ultra trail effort, especially involving night time navigation, sleep deprivation, etc, a pacer becomes a key comrade in getting a runner to the finish line safely. they jump on course fresh and ready to help the runner onwards by carrying many of the logistical and mental aspects of that segment of the effort - pacing (shocking, i know), fuel timing, supplies, course navigation, energy (staying awake!), and emotional support.

it’s the crew in motion - step for step on trail.

so here's a thank you letter to my Perfect Pacer….

we’re in the middle of this. we have our highs and our lows.

i couldn’t get to this point without you.

you always get me to where I need to be at the appointed time. you know the course intimately. you’ve already finished and you’ve come back to run step for step with me.

My job is just to stay close, trust you and keep moving forward, even when I can only see one more step in front of me.

i’m tired, but You never are.

you carry my load, my fuel, and my spirits. you’re strong enough to give me what i need and smart enough to direct the path. you keep me tuned to the pace that i am graced for - knowing when we stride and when we slow, but always one step more.

to go longer it may start slower. to go farther, i need you.

isaiah 30:15-22 msg

“Your salvation requires you to turn back to me and stop your silly efforts to save yourselves. Your strength will come from settling down in complete dependence on me— The very thing you’ve been unwilling to do. You’ve said, ‘No way! We’ll rush off on horseback!’ You’ll rush off, all right! Just not far enough! You’ve said, ‘We’ll ride off on fast horses!’ Do you think your pursuers ride old nags? Think again....But God’s not finished. He’s waiting around to be gracious to you. He’s gathering strength to show mercy to you. God takes the time to do everything right—everything. Those who wait around for him are the lucky ones. Oh yes, people of Zion, citizens of Jerusalem, your time of tears is over. Cry for help and you’ll find it’s grace and more grace. The moment he hears, he’ll answer. Just as the Master kept you alive during the hard times, he’ll keep your teacher alive and present among you. Your teacher will be right there, local and on the job, urging you on whenever you wander left or right: “This is the right road. Walk down this road…”