82 Comments
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MaryEllen Woodside's avatar

I don’t run anymore, I walk. My new hip appreciates the less taxing form of exercise. Good for you, Sean. Everyone has their own reasons for running or walking. I’m grateful to be outdoors and continue moving!

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Ernie in River City's avatar

I loved the thought that people wouldn't like you if you're "taf." At least "LOL" is the same either way. You're a blessing and an amazing person who radiates love. Hope a lot of that gets reflected back to you. Marathoner? I'm jealous. Knees wouldn't let me even if my mind would. All I have is the stationary bike now. Good workout, and even though the view doesn't change much, it's a great opportunity to pray. Mostly that I don't die on the dang bike, but also for all those I love. You're now on that list. Sorry.

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Krisztine Kun's avatar

That's terrific! It's such a pleasure to get to know you little by little. You are a wonderful gift of God. Thank you for sharing. Blessings

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Melissa's avatar

Well, praise Jesus Christ, again! I thank Him, Sean, for yet another reason that you didn't give up at the most painful time in your life! I, for one, have benefitted greatly from the many talents you possess-mainly, your ability to be an encourager. Congratulations! Keep up the great work!

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Elaine Bryan's avatar

Love you, Sean Dietrich....and all the love you spread! Keep it up, Son!

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Joy Jacobs's avatar

Well that’s certainly something I never expected. I’ve never been much of a runner of late but years ago I ran. Now I walk 3-4 miles. The results of running and walking is a perfect electrocardiogram. I only wish it also meant I was skinny. 🤪

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Oct 6
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Susie S's avatar

It's all in the genes. I concur, M209.

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STEVEN BENNETT's avatar

In my case Suzie it's in my JEANS!!! Damn they keep getting tighter and tighter!!!

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John Cooper's avatar

Been a taf boy since late August, 1962 and I’ll be a taf boy when they cremate my shell, whenever that might be. Oh…wait a minute. I’m not taf, I’m big-boned. Yeah. That’s it.

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STEVEN BENNETT's avatar

And you have e HUGE sense of good natured humor too!!!!!!!! May you never loose 'IT'my dear Friend!!

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Donna Buchanan's avatar

I am proud of anyone who can run! That is just awesome!

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Brandi Phillips's avatar

So am I! I’m 54 and only started walking daily just a few months ago. But running?? Only if I’m being chased by a really bad person!

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Donna Buchanan's avatar

I could not even do that probably!

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Linda Eriksson's avatar

... or a grizzly bear!

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Jim's avatar

Sean, every article you write tells me things I didn't know about you. I love that you run. I can truly say the most pleasurable time in my life is when I was running. I have a few marathons in my past. I started running when I was 50. I wish I could still do it but 91 is but four weeks away. If I could still run I would. I am so glad that you do.

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STEVEN BENNETT's avatar

Jim -it sounds to me like you are still running srong at 91 headed in the direction of your cherished memories that give you a reason to get up tomorrow and take small steps to unlimited possibilities. Thanks for being such an awesome mentor and example for all the rest of us!

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Jim's avatar

Thanks Steve. The Lord has been good to me. I appreciate your comment.

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Steve G's avatar

Ran for many years. I didn’t quit but my back did. Still occasionally dream of running. Keep on keeping on. Never look back. As Satchel Page said “What ever is chasing you might be catching up. “

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Oct 6
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Cheryl Chastain's avatar

There's no pain quite like rib pain, is there?

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Robin Nenninger's avatar

Another great, inspirational column, Sean!!!

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Anne Arthur's avatar

Congratulations, Sean. You're the best.

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Becky Condon's avatar

One early morning as my family was seeing me off on the Pensacola Marathon, an older gentleman asked me, “Are you going to run in that marathon?”

I said, “Yes, I am,” displaying my official race bib.

He said, “Wow! Isn’t that 26 miles?”

I said, “Well yes. 26.2miles.” I never let anyone forget the .2.

My husband, ever helpful, chimed in. He asked the gentleman, “Do you know why a marathon is 26.2 miles?”

He thought a minute and said, “No, I don’t. Why is it 26.2 miles?”

My husband deadpanned, “Because 26.3 would be f*#%ing crazy.”

I was shocked that he delivered that tired old marathon joke to a sweet, friendly gentleman, and worried he would be offended. Instead he doubled over in laughter, robustly patted my husband’s shoulder and shook his hand, then he wiped away tears of mirth as he walked away chortling and repeating the punchline.

We stood there in the lobby a moment observing the older guy walking away, so tickled at the new joke he collected that morning, and so happy about it. As he exited, he turned and said, “Good luck! Remember, 26.2 and that’s it!”

I waved and said, “Yes, sir! I’ve got it!”

It was my best race ever out of the 11 marathons I ran before I moved on to other entertainments.

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Susie S's avatar

Becky, I can see why the old man enjoyed that joke so much. Your husband's answer to him was so f%#*ing funny! 😆

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Gayle's avatar

Congratulations Sean. You may not finish at the front of the pack, but you finished. That’s what is important.

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Nancy Bone's avatar

You always make me smile. 🙂

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Donna Buchanan's avatar

Congratulations!

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