I am no hero.

When I started running, I was looking to make someone in my life proud because he was well known for his gift in the form of running. That man was my father. After years of searching and trying to represent the family name to a feature where he would respect me like he respected his gift.

But somewhere along the way, I changed because I never had the same caliber as him but I found my own passion and that was, the sport. Running wasn't just about winning medals, trophies or titles. Neither is it about having the absolute best personal record of a time to finish a race. My mind set was, "what is the main purpose of a race?" Is it to be faster than others? Or is it the determination of the mind, body and soul?

And don't get me wrong, I do have a set goal of a time that I keep for myself when I do have a race but if I was successful, I was happy for myself but if I didn't make that time I wanted, then there is alway a next time and it will keep me focused and harness my inner drive.

The main reason why I say that I am no hero or never claim it is because I meet with a lot of people who are dealing with everything that is beating them down, cancer, suicide, cystic fibrosis, crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diabetes, kids who are living in group homes and some kids who are looking for a role model, they are my absolute heroes because of what they go through on a day to day basis. That even though some think that the world was cruel when they were given the short end of the stick but yet, they smile and keep on smiling because they held onto their faith so strong that not even the best in the world could destroy something others search for, their passion and that is, life.

I run for them because I have a connection with so many on different levels and to be able to run for them has been my honor. I do not run for ego, money or anything materialistic. I run for the people and to me, that is worth more than any dollar amount.

I have faith in myself that I will do my best for them and that one day, it will inspire many others to do the same. And with my personal running squad, Team Heart Militia, means that whenever you come across a situation where you are being beaten down by life or just facing another day, that you bring your heart to war because you would be shocked on how far your heart gets you. It is why my team name is called that. And my running squad has been recruiting fellow honorable members. And my motto is: Be the miracle.

With the new and upcoming year of 2012 right around the corner, I prepare myself for many half marathons and road races and working on my charities for now. And I will have to tell you that it has been keeping me very busy but I am proud of my work I have been working on. I have been working on what races I would want to do, working on the budget, training and working on my donor walls.

What has been exciting is that I will be showing my personal interest on joining a team called Team Challenge for Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America and will be doing my best to represent North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota. And this team is a national team and will be working on what running events I could do for their organization. Fulfilling indeed and I will keep you all updated on what will be going on for the next few weeks.

Thank you all for once again, tuning in to another blog post of the Diary Of A Mad Runner and with my upcoming race in Fargo, ND, expect a lot of information and some good times.