Like turning 18 years old in this country, running 18 miles is a huge milestone. It’s a number that many long distance runner associate with 100% confidence in their marathon. The old saying goes, “If you can run 18 miles, you can run a marathon.” So with that, I am proud to say, I finally became 18 (-mile runner, that is).
Besides feeling good about taking on such an incredible distance, I was even more amazed to find out that the number 18 is a rather powerful number. According to Jewish tradition, 18 means “good luck”. It’s a blessing. Since the Hebrew word for “life” is “chai”, which has a numerical value of 18, it has become customary to give in multiples of $18. Whether it’s a monetary gift at a wedding or a donation, the giving of 18 is an expression of blessing a long life.
They aren’t the only ones that think this way. In Chinese traditions, this number is interpreted as “one is going to prosper.” Coincidentally, I had Chinese on the eve of my run, and my fortune cookie read, “Luck is coming your way.”
With the number symbolizing coming of age in this country, it’s quite easy to see that the number 18 is symbolic in saying “good things are coming.” And I should say so… In exactly two months, I’ll be crossing the finish line in beautiful Florence, Italy knowing that I helped people living with HIV/AIDS. I don’t think I could feel more fortunate than that.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
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SHED THOSE EXTRA MILES
Are you tired of seeing those extra airline miles you never plan on using? Or feeling the weight of those unneeded hotel points? If so, wait no longer… give them to me!
I’m planning my trip, and since I plan on staying longer, the small portion of donations that go towards my travel expenses won’t cover my full stay. Since this is my first time to Italy (much less out of the U.S.), I have to take advantage of the opportunity to meet my relatives and explore the history of my family.
I’m still planning everything, but if you’re interested in donating this way, please let me know. Email me at runnerla4119@sbcglobal.net.
BINGO WAS IT’S NAME-O
Fellow runner, Theresa Blaskovich will be hosting a Bingo Event at Hamburger Mary’s on Santa Monica and Sweetzer this Wednesday, September 27th. Feel free to stop by and join in on the fun!
ANOTHER BLOG
Here’s a blog kept by a great lady from the Saturday “Grete Waitz” pace group… http://www.tuscansole.blogspot.com/
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