Infinite Monkeys

Moved to Action? Almost

These days I'm always a few days behind. My job responsibilities have increased exponentially, and my cycling training has increased marginally. As this has dramatically cut into my radio listening time, I have made the leap to podcast junkie on a broadcast fast. I listen to Hewitt, Prager, Jillette, and The Fredcast regularly, usually two or three days behind. (Occasionally, a weekend with lots of riding will allow me to finish a week's episodes of the more news-based programs.) But, as I'm frequently in pain or oxygen-debt, I sometimes miss a point or nuance here or there.

This happened yesterday during a set of form sprints. And it caused me to rethink my life. Would I restructure the next year of my life to rise to what I took as a challenge? Hugh was reporting that the Fraters' "Elder" was going to reach for the status of Ironman triathlete. Peeps? An Ironman? Perhaps, but I just couldn't see letting that go unanswered.

I began thinking, "I could beat him. I can do it in less time. I'll go wherever he enters the race, and finish in less time. Must. Beat. The Peeps." Forget his noble effort of fundraising with his efforts and achievements. I must crush him. Okay, maybe I'll try some fundraising, but it will be for my school. It may not have the national appeal, but that's where I'd ask people I know to donate first. I'd never raise as much money. BUT I MUST CRUSH HIM ON TIME! F A S T E R ! (Ah, the nobility of testosterone and ego...)

This morning I was still thinking about it. Could I cut the cycling back to three or four days a week and get back in the pool? Could I really begin running? How little running could I do and still be ready to complete a marathon? Should I do a full standalone marathon before the Ironman? I've already done the 2.4 mile swim on an official Ironman course. I've completed a 112 mile bike race. I just haven't done them back to back and then go do a marathon. I know I could put the swim and the bike together. But the run... Could I? Given that Peeps is going to try, could I not?

This morning I went to check his post and see if there was a stated timeline for Peeps' metamorphosis. My realization was a pleasant mixture of feelings: relief meets Emily Litella. I wish Bill Rollins and his work for Fisher House all the best.