Running While Black: Reflections on the Race of My Life
The violent killing of George Floyd by the Minneapolis Police Department and the resulting protest across the country propelled me to write this book.
However, the killing of Ahmaud Arbery three months earlier profoundly affected me. You see, I’m a Marathoner.
Although I can see myself in George Floyd as a Black man in America, through Ahmaud, I can see myself as a Black man who runs in America.
Race has always been a part of my life, even when I didn’t realize it. Looking back on my life and the over 25 marathons I’ve run, I have learned much about running races and race. In some respects, a “Black runner”is a metaphor for running thru life as a Black person in America. This book reflects on how I’ve negotiated some of those challenges well, and some not so much. This is my maturation from being taught, to learning, to knowing, Running While Black: Reflections on The Race of My Life.
26.2 Miles to Grace
Every finish line has a starting line. Sometimes you think you are chasing finish lines, but you realize what you really are chasing is a chance to start again. You are running to become the best version of yourself. God gave me another chance to be a better version.
In this book, I will share triumphant, as well as heartbreaking stories, as I reveal my journey to becoming a 25-time marathoner and finding the love of my life.
26.2 Sneak Peek: Introduction, Prologue, and Chapter One
About 26.2 Miles to Grace
50 Chapters
193 Pages
What does running over 25 marathons and being married for over 22 years have in common? Apparently, a lot. Whether you are running your first marathon or thinking about getting married, Rick has weaved together an awe-inspiring story of hard work and perseverance throughout his life. With bumps and bruises along the way, he tells a story with focus, charm, and spiritual guidance.
This is a story of preparation, inspiration, and perspiration. Running a marathon is hard and, some say (and many more believe), marriage is hard too; but, with proper preparation, determination, and guidance, success is in your future. 26.2 miles to Grace leads you every step of the way to train for a marathon as well as a preparation for navigating a fulfilling marriage.
This book is not the authority on marathons or marriage, it is one man’s attempt to make sense of both. One key ingredient is the presence of grace. The story leads you through the weeks of training while he coaches you along his journey of 26.2 miles and 22 years. You will be beset with surprises and lessons you will learn and, maybe, you will encounter a few miracles in the mix.
Written in a straightforward yet motivational tone, “26.2 miles to Grace” helps you navigate the questions about running marathons, marriage, and much more. You will take a satisfying journey without running the miles or without buying the ring, yet.
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Rick is a recognized leader, motivational speaker, and published author on leadership, change management, internal controls, and running marathons. He lives in Carrolton, Tx with his wife of 23 years, Rita Parson Hightower, and is the proud father of one son, Corey.
