Faith

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a good time to consider faith. Faith is often used in a religious context, but it does not need to be. We can have faith with or without religion.

As Dr. King defined it, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.”

In running and in life, faith helps us to push through tough times and accomplish our goals. Faith especially helps when the path to our goals is unclear. Faith helps us to start and continue one step at a time, knowing that future steps will become visible as we go.

Taking the first step does not mean we will get to the top of the staircase. But not taking the first step guarantees that we will never get to the top. Even worse, not taking the first step guarantees that we will never even see the whole staircase. By taking the first step, we move in the right direction while allowing ourselves to see more of the staircase.

Regardless of what faith means to you, by continuing to work through tough times with uncertain outcomes, we allow ourselves to continue ascending the staircase of life.

Here are 3 ways to consider faith this week.

1. It is ok to start without seeing the finish: In running, we start races without seeing the finish line. In life, it is ok to begin a journey without being certain of the destination. Faith helps us to progress towards our goals when the details are not clear.

2. Remember the bigger picture: It can be easy to focus on taking the next step. Often that is required. Taking a step needs intentional effort, focus and determination. But by occasionally zooming out to see the big picture, we get pushed forward with our long term vision as a guide.

3. There will always be unknowns: Nothing is certain. There is risk in everything, even the safer choice. By remembering this, we are more likely to face unknowns and challenges head on. With faith that the work we do today will create a better future for us tomorrow, we are best prepared for the unknowns that we inevitably will face in the future.

Thanks for reading. Lets have a great week!