"Runs Again"?

I suppose it might not be self-evident why I've called my project "Marathon Sister Runs Again".  The "marathon" and the "sister" parts are probably reasonably self-explanatory, but maybe not the final two words.  So, if you're sitting comfortably, here's a little story. 

Once upon a time, that is, in November 2007, I entered the Religious of the Assumption as a postulant (that's the first stage of formation, before becoming a novice).  I lived in Kensington (sounds familiar) and worked in the garden and had some lessons while grappling with the most challenging element, to get accustomed to the community and prayer life of the sisters.  Around late summer 2008, with still another year as a postulant in prospect, I had a chat with the sister looking after me about my timetable.  An extra project seemed in order.  Maybe I could do some work in The Passage, the drop-in centre for homeless people near Westminster Cathedral, or find a shift in a charity shop?  Well yes, that would be OK, I responded, but how about something a little more individual?  For example, I suggested, how about running two marathons in two weeks to raise two thousand pounds each for two charities?  Let's be clear, I didn't seriously expect to get past the initial incomprehension and suspicion.  Yet somehow, it happened!  The Bungay Marathon was on 19th April 2009, and the London Marathon a week later.  Oh, and no, I hadn't run a marathon before that project.  Maybe if I had, I wouldn't have come up with the idea...  Or maybe I would; marathons do have a way of getting under your skin. 

All the same, a little basic maths should reveal that there's been a 5 year gap since then.  Well, I was in the noviciate, and when I got back I didn't want to be too demanding - such an enterprise creates a certain amount of extra work for the whole community.  Happily, when the suggestion was made to me and I expressed enthusiasm, the seal of approval was granted.  So here I am, running again!  Yes, that's it, Marathon Sister Runs Again.  It was pretty obvious, really. 

One thing differs from last time round.  I had quite a lot of time then, and threw myself into all sorts of fundraising schemes, with reasonable success.  Now, I'm relying more on hope than on action - as I said in my last post.  My fundraising page is still waiting for some more visits...  the address is on the side panel (look to the right!).  Next time I write, I hope to tell you a bit about the excellent charity I'm doing all this for, and the people they empower to lead happier and more fulfilled lives. 

Once again, thank you - for taking the time to read this - and for all your support.