Have you ever had a day when you feel like intangible blinders have been shed from your eyes to show you an entirely new world? Admit it. We have each had those moments. They happen all the time, sometimes in the most unexpected ways.In the summer of 2006, I was beginning to settle into my love of running, and my new temporary home, Boston. Little did I know that a mutual love of Chick-fil-A would lead me to an unexpected friendship, and a truly life altering experience.
On a day, just like any other day, 11:30 AM was quickly approaching, and as grumbles began to echo from my cubicle at work, I knew (and so did my colleagues) that it was nearly lunchtime. There may have been at least 10 other conversations occurring around me at that time, but as clear as a siren’s blare, I heard what sounded like music to my ears break through the other office conversations.
My ears perked up, and I was officially honed in and eves dropping. Could it be? A Chick-fil-A in the greater metropolitan area of Boston? Immediately, I knew I needed to get in on that conversation. This is how I got to know Kristina Beals.
The drive to the Burlington Mall was painfully awkward. Just the two of us, Kristina and I, likely grit our teeth the entire painful 15 minutes it took us to get to the Burlington mall. 3 months working in the same office, and we had likely spoken no more than 50 words to each other. The car was silent with the exception of one small comment Kristina made saying she liked my purse.
All such awkwardness was lost, however, once we had our heavenly Chick-fil-A sandwiches in hand. We admitted our mutual intimidation to approach the other previously, and began to tell our stories. Hence, the beginning of a Chick-fil-A born friendship.
Kristina shared that in the upcoming month, she would be taking part in the Susan G. Komen For the Cure 3 day walk. I was intrigued, and admired her desire and passion about her charitable venture. Not only was Kristina fundraising and walking, she had managed to secure an entire group of independent young ladies to join her efforts and her walking team, Miles for Melons. Sure enough, the next month after Kristina returned from the 3 day, she shared the experience, and I was hooked.
In August 2007, in the midst of training for the Chicago Marathon as an American Cancer Society fundraising athlete, I joined the Miles for Melons team to raise funds and trek the 60 mile 3 day Susan G. Komen For the Cure walk. To say the event left an impression would be an understatement. Throughout the 3 day walk, our team formed a tight camaraderie, and used that opportunity to learn more about other’s stories of triumph and tragedy. We listened, laughed, cried, talked, walked, cheered, mended blistered feet, tended to "road rashes," camped, and grew. We met individuals walking in memory of their wives, husbands (yes – men can get breast cancer), mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, sons, and daughters. We also met survivors.
What I learned from this event is that by giving back, you gain something in return. I gained wisdom where I had once been ignorant. I gained hope for those who are and will endure such an illness. I gained a friend who has forever changed my life for the better. I learned that by being a charity athlete, it’s not just about how much you raise, it’s about the journey as well.
Mere days ago, Kristina completed her 5th year of involvement and support of the Susan G. Komen For the Cure 3 day walk in Boston. Throughout the last 5 years, Kristina has raised funds for the organization, walked the 60 miles, volunteered at aid stations, and recruited members for the Miles for Melons Boston based fundraising team.
To a remarkable woman and friend, thank you, Bealsy - for opening my eyes (and so many others) to a world waiting with open arms for our individual contributions.
We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. ~Winston Churchill
I know I run like a girl. Try to keep up!
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