Half of my battle is mental. While I have nearly constant physical pain, I have to also battle with my mind. Some days I wake up filled with hope and thoughts of running freely through the mountains. Others, like today, it’s hard to feel motivated to do anything, even dream. But I do. I figure I have to keep myself going because once I stop moving, I will move backwards. I have found that when my inner pilot light starts to dwindle and I begin to feel helpless, I should do my exercises. Once I start moving, lifting my 3-lb. weight and my legs, I begin to feel better. I think it’s got something to do with getting the blood flowing but I also think it’s got something to do with knowing that I’m keeping my muscles gaining strength, and that this will pay off down the trail. I have to think that, or I’ve got nothing. Keep the mind focused and the body moving. That’s how I’ll get there.