Indelible Imprints on An Island

‘"No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friend's or of thine own were: any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind, and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee’. ~ John Donne, ‘No Man is An Island’

It has been a difficult week for humans. The Acts of God wreaked its mighty havoc on an industrial giant called Japan. Watching the tragic scenes replayed on primetime television makes it very hard to stomach. Reality bites. Under crisis, people can and do band together to weather the storm. This is human drama at its best. Citizens have been described as stoically calm; they still queue in orderly fashion to make their purchase, and ethical practice still exists. Is it really calmness? Or, is this calm after the storm?

‘It is strange to be known so universally and yet to be so lonely.’ ~ Albert Einstein

Elsewhere in the world, panic has reared its ugly head. Psychologically, we have been disturbed, or aroused out of our stupor. We are sending out messages without regard for its authenticity. Many are taking uncertain, and fearful, steps to ward off the unknown. Perhaps, the unknown is already predicted for humankind can be selfish or selfless when chaos prevails. Ignorance is to be feared. Fear is the ultimate ignorance.

‘If I had only known, I would have been a locksmith.’ ~ Albert Einstein

When you run alone, are you entirely alone? Can one be alone, but never lonely? Ultramarathoners can appreciate this sensation and experience when they make their weary, tiny steps through the desolateness, darkness, and the cold. For them, the future is mere steps committed ahead of them. Thus, how can we make small steps into our future mired with confusion and calamity?

Perhaps there is something for you here. More mileage and speed - blended. Karno a.k.a. Dean Karnazes a.k.a. Ultramarathon Man is still running out there, somewhere. If a lone runner can provide hope for others, then the group of people bound by a common cause can create a beacon of hope and optimism for even more people. Small step. Large leap.

To paraphrase Sir Winston Churchill: Let us celebrate mankind at our darkest hour. For it may be our finest hour. Let us send out our positive thoughts to the world, and do our small part in assisting others in a time of need. Athletes like Pete Jacobs are doing their part, giving up their coaching fees for charity. Next weekend, there is a charity 10K run. Perhaps you would be keen to participate? I received in the same mail the following details.



Details of the run:
Date:    27 March 2011 (SAT)Time:   08:00 - 12:00Venue: National University of Singapore Sports & Recreation Centre (SRC),
2 Sports Drive, S117561