When I got in line to pay for my Shitake mushrooms last Wednesday evening, I was hoping I got the cashier at the first register, and not the second. The registers are facing me, one in front of the other.
There was a customer at each, but I noticed the customer at the first register only had a couple of items and the transaction was quick. As soon as his items were placed in the bag, he grabbed them and I quickly stepped up to that first register.
After exchanging our greetings, I asked the young cashier, “Are you from Chicago?”
“Oh. Uh no, I just like the Bulls.”
He appeared to be in his young 20s, and his mask was covered with images of the Chicago Bulls basketball team.
“I entered the Chicago Marathon lottery and am supposed to hear back tomorrow, which I thought was today so seeing your mask I’m taking that as a good omen. It’s a sign!” I said as if he really wanted to hear that.
Jordan (now I’m wondering if he was named after Michael Jordan) and his training mentor (who was standing next to him) smiled with excitement.
“Well, you do run!” His training mentor said as he pointed out that I was in my running clothes because I did in fact run there to pick up my mushrooms.
I added, “Although it could also be the Universe toying with me saying this is as close as I’m getting to Chicago so this could go either way!”
We all had a good fun laugh and I walked out of there believing this was indeed a good sign.
I did wake up on Wednesday morning thinking the Chicago Marathon lottery was being drawn that day, and then I saw the notification from the race that said “Less than 24 hours until you know your fate for 2022.”
What? Noooo! This can’t be! The initial email said December 8. I know it did! I know I’m right. And then I found that initial email and it said December 9. Ok, I was wrong.
Tom Petty said it best “The waiting is the hardest part.” However, I reminded myself that whatever is meant for me it shall be, and if not, then it wasn’t. No stress.
On Thursday morning the email notification landed in my inbox just before 6 AM and I couldn’t believe it! I got in! I actually got selected!
The Chicago Marathon holds a very special place in my heart. It was my first marathon and my 25th, and I love everything about this race. The crowds. The course. The city. The energy!
Now, all I can hope for is I make it to that start line healthy and possibly be able to meet some of my amazing teammates that I have been virtually running and walking around the world with for the past 15 months who also got into Chicago!
Oh, and training. This time I will be training.
Thank you for reading and be well!