This week, I’m sharing a blog written by Hope Dunlap. She writes about Justine Galloway’s incredible ‘backward’ journey. I met Justine through my nephew. Her self-discipline and dedication inspire me. EnJOY.

Go, Justine Go!_ Running with Dystonia (and Breaking a Record!) _ TOVIFIT

If you cannot see Hope’s full blog (including a video of Justine) in the above link, click on ‘skip to content’ at the top left corner or try this link:  http://blog.tovifit.com/2015/06/12/go-justine-go-running-with-dystonia-and-breaking-a-record/

Thank you, Hope, for your inspirational blog. Congratulations, Justine, on breaking the world record. What a JOYous occasion. We’re proud of you.

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I am encouraged by people who go after the desires of their heart. They remind me that we have a choice in life. Yes, some people have more than others have—better job, higher income, larger house, nicer car, college education. However, each person has unique qualities, personal dreams, the ability to hope, and desire for JOY in life.

Inside each of us are many elements—body, mind, personality, spirit …… I would venture to say that within each human being, the various attributes are not equal. Most of us have at least one area that shines brighter than the other areas.

Perhaps we need to discover and cultivate the JOYful part of us that shines—dig deep and find our sunniest element. When we find our area of strength, I am confident we will see the strong area links to a passion within.

So how do we reach our dreams?

I believe the Justines in life prepare physically. They run toward the goal often and practice daily. They prepare their body, mind, and spirit for the win. They do not let up until the end.

I bet they plan intellectually. They need to determine how long it will take to build up stamina, strength, and the distance required to win their personal race—and stick to the plan.

I imagine they use time management skills to plan their days prior to the quest. Most likely, they set their schedule in stone and run every day toward their goal.

Some might have a mentor, someone to support and believe in him or her. Perhaps they believe enough in themselves to run the race that leads to their passionate dream. They step out in faith and set the win in motion. They do everything in their power to complete the plan, achieve the goal, and reach the dream.

These people have a commonality. Their hopes and dreams emerge and with faith, passion, dedication, and self-discipline, they set a plan in motion and never stop until the JOY of their dreams come true.

If they don’t succeed at first, at least they moved closer to the win. With motivation, commitment, and perseverance, they continue the path to victory.

All I have mentioned takes work. Is it worth it? You tell me. How important is your dream?

May we always reach for our dreams with commitment, discipline, and perseverance and find the JOY that waits at the finish line.