Most of you are familiar with my passion for running (OK, some of you may use terms like obsession or addiction). While it serves as an outlet to burn stress, process problems and fuel a quietly competitive nature, I hope that all of this running can serve a deeper purpose. It is very easy for runners to focus on themselves as they do the training and competitive miles in search of a new PR or collecting the latest medal. However, I believe that God gives us opportunities to use our unique wiring, abilities and life experiences to make a difference in other’s lives.

In my case, I’ve had the chance to run for those who can’t run for themselves. Through the years, I’ve tried to use many of the races to honor and support those in the midst of various life challenges. The hours of pounding the pavement give me a chance to pray for their needs and hopefully to offer them encouragement. It also helps me to remember, during the tough stretches of any run, that there are those who would gladly trade places with me and that their battles are most likely a lot longer than the few hours I may be competing.

When the opportunity to Run For Autism in the London Marathon presented itself, I saw it as a good chance to honor and support an awesome boy named Kage Moore. Kage fights several life challenges including autism. He can have difficult and scary days but he keeps pressing on. I’m always amazed by his fun-loving spirit, his laugh and his smile.

In many bigger races, people will line the streets and the finish area to cheer on the competitors. If anyone deserves that applause, it is Kage. My hope is that by running in his honor, he can get to experience the enthusiastic support of all of us and see that there are many cheering him on.