“but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
June 1, 2010
Dear friends,
In 1987, I ran my first (and only) marathon. Janet and I had been married just over five years, our son Todd was two, I had hair, and I was determined to run, run, run! And run I did. Now, a mere 23 years later… On December 5, 2010, my daughter Amy and I will join thousands of runners at the California International Marathon in Sacramento. You may ask yourself… can he still run? Or maybe you are asking yourself… why is he telling me this?
I hope you will consider supporting Ishimwe through my participation in this marathon. Any contribution will help the work of Ishimwe and 100% of the money raised will go directly to supporting them. I’ve enclosed a pledge postcard for you to return if you choose to participate, or you can email me at johnb409@pacbell.net. Funds won’t be due until after I finish the race (and I plan on finishing!).
The next 6 months will be a time of preparation for the run. Between now and the race, I estimate I will log approximately 500+ miles in training. If you are interested in following the journey, I’ve set up a blog (Ishimwerunning.blogspot.com). I will post updates weekly on my progress. You may get a taste of what it takes to complete a marathon.
Thank you for considering my request for your support. If you have any questions about the Ishimwe Center or about running, do not hesitate to contact me, or go to Ishimwe.org to read about the Shaws’ vision and work.
So will you join me in supporting Ishimwe?
In Christ’s love!
John Boyden
Cell: 408-839-5025
PS – Lao-tzu (c 604-531 b.c., and possible runner?) said “The longest journey begins with a single step.” My paraphrase would be that “every journey begins with a single prayer.” Whether you can support Ishimwe financially or not, please join me in praying that God will work through Ishimwe, that He will get the glory, and that He would also grant me strength and health to run the race before me. – JB