Although as personal as this may be, I feel there is no better way to honor my Dad than to share with everyone a small glimpse of the love and support I got from him.  This small e-mail was from my freshmen year of college as I struggled with the transition from competing in high school to college.  Although all about running, I feel it can be related to every aspect of my life.  As I find myself in a slump right now, this e-mail gives me hope.  Maybe it will give you a few words of inspiration too......

Hey Girl,

   What did the Doc say?  I've been thinking about some of the things we talked about last night and would like to add some thoughts.  You are one of the most driven individuals I have know.  That can be good and bad.  The pressure you place on yourself can be a heavy burden.  Step back and look at your situation.  You have been running CC threeeeee years now.  I think it is safe to say that is the least of anyone on your team.   You are still learning how to run these races and how to practice.  It was a giant step up in competition for you.  I don't think you should lower you goals one inch, but you have to be patient.  You

will have ups and downs and you need to be mentally prepared for those. If you don't get to go to PA talk to Coach Fox and ask him what do you need to do to achieve your goals.  Look at it as a challenge and overcome it.  You know you can do it.  Try to find a positive aspect in any bad situation.  Let the negative things go and move on.  You will be fine Jess.  We know and  you know that you can achieve any goal  you set for yourself. 

Love,

Dad

There is not a a day that goes by that I don't miss my Dad.  But there isn't a day that goes by that I am not thankful for the relationship that we had. The pain of losing a loved one never goes away, but you also learn that life does not stop for you to grieve. In the end it is all a cycle of beginnings and ends.  I hope that as my journey through life continues, I can keep tucked inside my heart the love, the values, and the lessons my Dad taught me.  Until we meet again.......