the theme of the day…
.
butterflies
.
80 virgins are tossing and turning, sleepless
in what might turn out to be the last bed they sleep in for days.
50 veterans are not resting any easier.
but those who have made the journey to the rock are staring into the darkness facing known fears.
.
the newbies only know they are facing an immense challenge
the reality is still shrouded by inexperience.
.
the bus ride is always the first true realization of what is to come.
it takes all day
and the mind struggles to comprehend that this distance can be done on foot.
.
as the bus wound its way thru the hills
long time vol state angels were waiting alongside the road to wave at the runners
who they would meet days later on their long trek to the rock.
.
closer to the ferry they started to see tents set up in anticipation of tomorrow
signs facing back the way the buses were coming had messages like:
“welcome vol staters”
and
“see you soon!”
.
it was encouraging to feel a part of something big
to bask in the traditions that have grown up around the event….
.
but nothing could erase the realization
that their cars were a very long way away.
.
that remote mountaintop in georgia,,
the fabled rock
its call sounded very faint and distant now.
.
it was so close and clear when they clicked “accept” on that invitation.
but now
in the darkness
it could not seem further away.
.
eventually they will sleep.
fitfully perhaps,
but they will sleep at least a little.
.
the clock moves relentlessly
and every second the ferry ride is that much closer.
.
when they step off that ferry into the suffocating humidity of july on the miss’ippi river,
most of the butterflies will go away…
.
by the top of the 300 step stairway to the courthouse the butterflies will be gone.
replaced by the grim reality
that this is not going to be easy!
.
those who are about to fry;
we salute you!