I have an unhealthy habit of following the news too frequently, and hearing about another war took a heavy toll on my spirit. I would’ve never guessed waking up to the Chicago Marathon on a brisk fall morning would heal my soul. Watching 47,000 people of all races, ages, religions, and abilities run towards the same finish line was unexpectedly a very emotional experience. Every runner seemed challenged only by themselves and was challenging themselves. Not a single runner seemed to be in competition with another. Everyone was just trying to better their personal best. Can you imagine 47,000 people trying to be better together? I tried to push back my tears from reaching the big smile I was wearing, and in the midst of the intensity of the moment, I was filled with hope.
As I leave you with one of my favorite quotes by Rumi, I’m thankful for running alongside you and working together towards the betterment of us both. For the betterment of us all.
– Burak Sarac, Team Lead
“Be like the sun for grace and mercy. Be like the night to cover others’ faults. Be like running water for generosity. Be like death for rage and anger. Be like the Earth for modesty. Appear as you are. Be as you appear.”
– Rumi
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