can

Yesterday I met a kindred spirit and we got to talking about favorite children's books and life in New York and the charms of the English countryside and writing and running.

We talked about how in writing, just like in running, so much of the challenge is in your head. New York Road Runners lists the right kind of dialogue to have with yourself on Half Marathon race day.

For us, ignoring the voices that tell you you CAN'T DO IT, that you're too slow, or not talented enough or not as well trained as that guy (pushing the baby carriage, as he passes you, UP the killer hill) is as much of a workout requiring discipline, focus and a community of supporters and cheerleaders as the actual athletic or artistic endeavor itself.

Talk about ignoring the voices that tell you--YOU CAN'T. D and I first heard about The Hoyts a few years ago and it still manages to get us every time.