COMMUNITY: Ode to the marathon

Editor's note: Erin Moeller, 35, of Mount Vernon, is a lifelong runner who qualified for the last two Olympic Marathon Trials. A native of Ryan, she's a graduate of North-Linn and Wartburg who works for Benchmark Inc. in Cedar Rapids. She has two children - Ryne (8) and Evelyn (3) - and one on the way with husband Andy.

It is with mixed emotions that I write this week's column.

For weeks I have been looking forward to this special weekend - a weekend residents throughout Marion, Cedar Rapids and the surrounding communities get to kickoff an exciting, inaugural event - the Marion Rotary Marathon for Shoes.

The Marion Rotary has been dreaming big, working tirelessly and teaming up to put on an amazing race right here in our backyard.

If you're reading this bright and early this morning, consider putting your paper down, grab your jacket and head out to a location along the course to cheer on the participants.

If you haven't experienced the thrill of the marathon, you're in for a real treat.

Personally, I can hardly talk about the pain, agony, joy and excitement of the marathon without getting choked up. I think it's because of all these emotions that my heart remains heavy for those who were impacted by the recent bombs at the Boston Marathon.

Many might think the marathon is a very personal experience. For some, this is the case. For others, committing to and ultimately training for the marathon becomes a family event. Schedules have to be adjusted to fit in the weekly long runs and workouts throughout the week, meal times have to be adjusted to allow for the crazy schedule, and other events slide to the back burner in weeks leading up to the big day.

In our family, it's not uncommon for Andy and the kids to join me out on the trail handing me water bottles, high fives and other words of encouragement to help convince my mind that my body is capable of completing the workout.

I'm certain I am not alone in experiences such as these. When families come together to support one another throughout an experience like this, everyone feels the joy of the accomplishment and pain of defeat when things don't workout as planned.

After training together throughout the marathon preparation, it only seems logical for our entire family to travel to marathon weekend together. After all, we're all in this together and (as a parent) I know I'll perform better with their smiling and supportive faces present along the race course.

This brings me back to Boston ...

Watching the numerous friends, family and especially kids along the route encouraging each of the runners makes the events of Boston 2013 even more painful.

Training for a marathon is tough, but race day is the opportunity for all that hard work to come together and make the sacrifices worthwhile. Each step throughout the course is one step closer to the finish line, earning that finisher's medal, and getting that big hug from family and friends who are waiting - those who supported you through all the ups and downs of your training program, offered encouragement and believed in you even when you didn't believe in you.

For those who placed the bombs and did their best to sabotage this terrific American event, for those who killed innocent fans, spectators, family members, for those who left so many scarred for life, I really feel sorry for you and the sad and pathetic state you must be in.

Instead of recognizing the time commitment and dedication that each of the participants went through to not only qualify for Boston, but to also compete in this big stage, instead of considering the sacrifices that each of the family members made to help support their loved one chase their dream of finishing the marathon, instead you thought only of yourself.

Thankfully, Americans are tough. Americans are resilient. Today - right here in our backyard - we have an opportunity to make a difference.

Even if you've never experienced the thrill of the marathon, it's not too late. Slip on your shoes, grab your jacket and pick a spot along the course throughout Marion to cheer on the numerous competitors. Even if you don't run a step, I assure you that you'll be moved by the true grit and determination of the participants.

You'll find that marathoners come in all shapes and sizes. Despite their outer appearance, one thing is for sure - all share one common attribute, a huge and committed heart.

Do yourself a favor - go out and see what the marathon is all about. You might be surprised by what you see - and don't be surprised if you're inspired by what you see.

As for me, it's not necessarily the fastest marathoner out on the course who will provide my inspiration. Sure, winning the race is an impressive feat, but, for me, it's my group of co-workers who committed, trained and are running toward the finish line together.

One of my co-workers is running her first full marathon, while three relay teams were formed with various Benchmark employees, spouses, and friends. As a member of your Benchmark family - I am so proud of each of you.

Best of luck to all participants out on the course today. Enjoy the journey and be sure to have a little fun while you're out there.

- Erin