Confronted by many types of physical stress, the human body is capable of supreme endurance. When all seems hopeless. When the painful agony becomes unbearable, a way forward can be found. The ability to find that little extra. An invisible and special type of focus can kick in. Mental strength, borne on a willing spirit. Defeat, not an option.
While away for extended periods, it’s easy to become disconnected from international and home events in general. Personal news another matter though. Today, we are deeply saddened to learn of the death of David Martin. A family member and friend. A man capable of extraordinary endurance. Someone who successfully rowed the Atlantic Race with three mates, during one of the roughest crossings ever experienced. It was 2006. (Ben Fogle & James Cracknell were fellow competitors). One year later he was at it again. Competing in an Extreme Marathon. Five consecutive days crossing the Kalahari Desert. Madness to most. Then, after the event, in an unexpected accident, his Land Rover overturned. Dave’s spinal cord severed. A life changing moment. His biggest challenge lay in front of him. Stoically faced head on. RIP Dave. Forever remembered.
We’re currently pitched up at Sokak Camping – beachside. If we squint, we can almost make out Cyprus. Described on the app as cute camping – it is not. Another owner shy of cleaning utensils. A two night stop. Time to catch breath. Plan next week’s route.
A new Browny and Whitey join us. Sense our in house stock of dog biscuits has not been exhausted. Although it appears that they’ve never come across them before. Browney adopts a very relaxed attitude. Reclines on his belly and occasionally leans forward and licks one or two up with a confused look. “Is this how you eat them?” Not fully decided if they’re to his taste.
Whitey has already decided. They’re not for her. “Anyway, I’m not hungry” she implies, as she rolls around unladylike, “Whatever they are”
During my early school years, swimming was never a strong point. An early fear of water, never allowed me to develop the confidence I now have. However, the anxiety that accompanied the weekly visit, was always compensated with a Horlicks and Wagon Wheel for afters.
My new after dinner coffee and bite – a daily reminder . . .
