Live knowing that mile 21 is coming.

It is said that a marathon begins at mile 21. If you have been there, you know. The body begins to break down, sure, but it is the mind, the psychological game, that is the real battle.

I was talking to a friend who used to work a marathon in Utah as an onsite medic. They set up their tent on, you guessed it, mile 21, as that is when runners begin breaking down.

A runner trains for the marathon knowing that mile 21 is coming. It is a great motivator, as the athlete knows the certain difficulty that lies ahead.

Life is similar. The difference is that you don’t know when mile 21 will appear.

You’re either approaching mile 21, in the middle of mile 21, or leaving mile 21. Everyone is in one of these places today.

Maybe the race is smooth right now. Live knowing that mile 21 is coming. This creates an attitude of humility, service, empathy, and grace, a desire to help others on the journey. Inevitably, we are around others who need the support. Celebrate with an eye on others.

Maybe the season is a bit shaky as you are enduring mile 21. Remember that mile 21 is a season. Find an Anchor that settles the soul. And, remember, there are those on the journey who desire to help. Create the culture that relieves pressure, offers space to endure.

And maybe you are coming out of mile 21. You have endured, reached a place where you are catching your breath. The hope is back. Praise the gift of the calm waters. Create the culture that offers the freedom to gather yourself.

Mile 21 is the great equalizer in life.

Today, we each have circles surrounded by people at various stages.

Great leaders know the seasons of each of their teammates. The tendency is to think that everyone’s journey matches your own. If one takes a moment to think about every person, the seasons become clear. Be aware. Be the one who moves from celebration to empathy to grace, depending on the season.

And families have many separate journeys going on. A great exercise is to think about the season of your spouse and each child. Celebrate, support, and give grace. Drop the text. Write the note. Boost confidence. Offer hope.

The humility that comes from knowing there is a mile 21 in life drives a servant heart.

Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-3

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