A guest post from Pamela Terrell Cross: I open my eyes. I look at a new day. I realize my God is just a breath away. I rejoice and I praise Him for all that He does, so grateful for His amazing grace. I wrote this little statement on January 12, 2014, never realizing that I would need to hold on to that statement through the days ahead. Meg was, and is, a part of my every memory, my every breath, and my every thought. She is always on my mind and always in my heart. I see her running after Lil’ Wirt through the fields, helping Howard with legos or playing a game. I see them all in one bed, Santa hats on, reading Christmas stories, laughing and laughing. I see how much they loved each other, how proud they were of each others' accomplishments. I see them sharing and loving. I see Meg sitting in her daddy’s lap on the tractor as a little girl, always ready to help him or go wherever he was headed. Then, grown up and driving the tractors, always laughing and smiling, loving the farm. I see her picking vegetables, hauling bushel baskets, throwing watermelons to the boys in the truck, or catching them as they threw them to her. I watched her patiently teaching her children, what to pick or weed, wanting them to experience what she did as a child, encouraging them to work hard and keep going. I watched her marry her best friend. She was a beautiful bride, so happy, excited and so determined to be a good wife and a good mother, creating a home that was inviting and as stress free as possible. I see her at the beach, picking apples, pumpkin hunting, or looking for the perfect Christmas tree. I see her at the park, shopping, never more than a phone call away. So many pictures flow through my mind, always laughing and smiling and enjoying every moment. I watched her play with her children, running and laughing, holding them close and teaching them life lessons through example. I have always been so grateful she allowed me to share in so many of their day to day activities - watching her be a mom and spending time with them, making so many wonderful memories. Meg was a loving and caring daughter, a devoted, faithful and loving wife, a patient, proud, loving, godly mom, a devoted sister, and a true friend. She was humble and gracious, kind and compassionate. I am overwhelmed with all that has happened since Meg went home to heaven. I have seen complete strangers reach out across the miles to share words of encouragement, words of hope, prayers, and miles upon miles logged in. I have seen a community of friends reach out to offer help and love to Meg’s family and our family because they loved Meg. God did not cause this tragedy. Neither did he leave us or forsake us. But rather, he lifted us up and held us close. Meg loved Jesus with her whole being and tried to live a life that would glorify Him. I can hear her sharing her faith and picture her with her head bent in prayer, or lifted up singing songs of praise. Christmas is a time of joy from the first Noel of the angel to the manger where our Lord lay. It's a time of laughter and singing, of sharing and giving, time to seek out those who do not know the love of God and share your story. Meg’s story is the story of a humble, sweet young woman who embraced life with arms wide open, who led by example, and whose smile was contagious, opening doors, healing hurts and always evident. Meg is my daughter, but she was also my dearest and best friend. My life and that of my family will never be the same, but the hope of Christmas and the joy of the Lord will never change. All of you that follow and run for Megsmiles are truly a blessing. Your posts, miles run, notes of encouragement, stories and accomplishments, lift us up and encourage us more than you will ever know. Thank you for being a part of this family. Today, I am thankful. Thankful for Meg and for the life she lived and the time we were able to spend with her. I'm thankful for a God who continues to cover us with His amazing grace. God bless you this Christmas, may His light shine on you and bring you peace.
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A guest post from Amanda Parish: I met Meg via my husband, Jeff, who worked with Scott (different department but still law enforcement within the same county). My husband introduced me to her as a runner, a really, really good runner. She was always smiling - a smile that was sincere, warm, welcoming and unforgettable (as so many of you are learning). As we met more and more, usually at school functions with the kids which were always hectic or at the gym, I felt drawn to her because she is someone we all have a little desire to be - whether it be the runner in her, the pure passionate mothering in her, or the deep faith she had. Her presence was calming but strong, her nurturing tone that exuded from within showed each time she spoke to my children, or any child, at school or at the gym. Her strength definitely showed itself during our boxing classes. But she never wanted to be seen, she was always cheering for someone else. Her ability to empower & inspire is like no other. Her determination to do what she does was a power within that can not be described but it can be felt, STILL can be felt from all around the world. Sometimes I feel selfish because my heart hurts so much for her family, I feel like I didn't know her as much as I'd like to have so why am I feeling like this? I guess that all relates back to who Meg truly was...is... You didn't have know her all your life to feel such a strong connection...You only need to have passed by her in the hallways to have felt the sincerity in her smile, you only need to have read an article about her accomplishments and sense the humbleness in her own quotes and comments, you only need to have heard any one story from a Megger to know that she was sent her for something larger than we know. Meg's death changed my life, it made me value the time I have with my family more, it makes me tell my husband I love him more often and that I'm proud of what he does for our family, it makes me smile at others & realize we don't know what someone is going through, so a smile may change their whole day. Her death has made me realize time is all we have. But her life, how she lived her life, has made the hugest impact on me. I have regained my faith, something I let pass by daily because life was too busy for me to "find" time... Meg's family restored my belief that through Christ all things are possible, as they are the picture of strength. They rely on our Lord to get them through and that shows me her life, surrounded by Christ, is the true meaning. I want to live my life through Christ, not just believe, but truly make time. I look around and wonder how did I ever not find the time? So I now schedule time, daily (it's one of my alarms on my phone). And if you're having trouble finding the time, try this, it's bound to help. I feel like it's my daily reminder from Meg saying "you're worth it, find the time.", so I do. To Scott, the kids, Pam, Wirt, her brothers, Gale & family, I pray daily for you all to gain some comfort from the legacy left behind. A legacy to be proud of, a legacy that shows you raised a beautiful daughter/wife/Child of God, inside & out, who spread that love through her marriage, her children, her family, her Church, her friends, and now through people who honor her & what she stood for daily. Meg was someone who spoke volumes but never had to say a word. I hope that the #megsmiles group only grows stronger by the day and we continue to fulfill Meg's journey here on Earth, as she was needed for something so much larger. Merry Christmas & God Bless you all. We are here for you in your time of struggle and of joy. A guest post from Felix Lopez: This has been a year filled with many emotions for sure. As I sit here in my usual chair drinking my latte, I start recollecting some of the important events of the months that have passed. A few in particular come to mind. Like the one on January 18th. I was browsing my club’s FB page, days before, when I saw an invitation to run the Saturday of that week. The run was to honor and remember Meg Cross Menzies, a mother of 3 children who found sudden death in the roads of Hanover, VA. I immediately made my mind up and decided to go. So, I went dressed in blue, Meg’s favorite color as I found out after reading subsequent comments in that post. I remember it being a cold early morning and only expected to see maybe 6 to 10 runners. To my surprise I found almost 40 runners of the town of Lynchburg or nearby. All were dressed like ready to conquer the North Pole. I remember selecting my BIB with Meg's picture on it and placing it on my chest. It is the same BIB that has accompanied me to several races in the months thereafter. We gathered for a short moment and after staying silent for a little while, we went on to our runs. I also remember other events that happened through the year. All connected to Meg. Like the one a few days after that virtual run, when I joined the Meg's Supporters FB page and learned the details of her tragic death. Many of the stories were about her, about how she lived her life and how determined she was to qualify for Boston that year. The outpouring of true concern from runners all over the country and some places of the world kept pulling me more and more to the group. After making some friends and reading more I understood why. All members, including myself, could relate to her story. Yes, what happened to Meg could have happened to any of us. Also, it did sink in my head that we human beings, even though in good health, are very fragile. Our lives can change from one second to the next. As I mentioned before, I ran in Meg's Memory in several races with Meg's BIB on my back to give me that extra push. During some races I heard some uplifting comments and cheers. Comments like the one at the Monument 10K in Richmond where faster runners who were passing me were saying "Good to see you running for Meg, buddy!" or the one at the Mill Mountain 1/2 Marathon in Roanoke when a young runner passed me at a steep uphill saying: "I run this hill for Meg!" or that one at the Richmond 8K where I heard: "Run fast for Meg!". This tells me that her story is being known more and more. The trip with friends to the Monument 10K race gave me the opportunity to visit the site of Meg’s Memorial for the first time. I remember the big impact that the visit caused to me and my friends. Also, how can I not include our reunion of 3 days in Richmond? This reunion has been documented with an enormous number of pictures and comments in the FB page. Meeting personally some “megger” friends and spending quality time with them has to be one of the highlights of the year. Finally, the day that I was able to run Meg's training course with Scott. That is an experience that would be hard to forget. That course is not easy. The fact the Meg used it for training tells me how determined she was and the type of competitor she had become. Also, I believe that runners, joggers and walkers from this group have bonded. That bonding is Meg's legacy. This group of people converges in this page to talk about their achievements of the day or their struggles of the week. Just to be encountered with the most inspiring set of congratulatory or comforting words from people that care. Now, let me conclude by saying this, runners are good people by nature. Meg Cross Menzies was a good person. I can’t answer why Meg is no longer with us. But of this I am sure, as a Christian and God fearing man, that there is the possibility that when my time comes, if I am in front of Peter waiting for a decision of my worthiness, this angel wearing a pair of running shoes will approach me and with the nicest smile in her face, like her mom Pam, will say and ask: "So you are Felix!... Do you want to go for a run?" THAT would make my LIFE!! A guest post from Karen Mills: It read like a tragic love story. A kind and beautiful young lady with a heart for others met a handsome, wholesome young man dedicated to making the world a better place. They married in a fairy-tale wedding, had children, and moved to the home of her dreams. She devoted herself to her family, while still pursuing her passion for running. In the prime of her young life she was struck down, creating an outpouring of support for her devastated family, who bravely trudge on. These facts were and are true, but only scratch the surface. For over thirty years, it has been my privilege to call Meg's family my friends. We met when Meg and my daughter were in the same Brownie troop. Meg was beautiful even then, both physically and with an inner beauty that radiated through twinkling eyes and an infectious, ever-present smile. A gifted athlete, Meg loved running. She also loved to sing, and she did it well. She was equally at ease with children, youth, and adults of any age. She was kind to all and helpful, especially at home. When she talked with you, it seemed that you were the most important thing in Meg's life at that moment. When Meg's mom became the music director at our church, Meg and the rest of the family came too. By then Meg was a college student who could easily have balked at the change in her routine. Instead, Meg embraced it, and immersed herself in church activities. She taught Sunday School, became a Deaconess, worked with youth, and sang in choir. When Meg and Scott married, she devoted herself to building a life with him. Her children were her pride and joy, and she was a great mom. She loved them fiercely and protectively. They kept a schedule, ate the right things, were cute, funny, and well behaved, just like their parents. Meg's family came first. She put them before career, interests, hobbies, etc. On the last day of her life, Meg put soup for the family dinner in the crockpot before going out to run. Though old enough to be her mother, I envied Meg. She was always calm, cool, and collected, while I flew by the seat of my pants. Her children were well dressed and well behaved, while I remembered days when I secretly desired to change my name to anything other than "Mom!!". She was outgoing and friendly to everyone, while I am at ease only with the closest of friends and family. In the hours after Meg's passing, as I stood with her grieving family in the kitchen of her warm and cozy home, I saw the source of Meg's perfection. On the bulletin board where she kept the family calendar were Bible verses that guided her life. Among them "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) There was the answer to all my envious questions. In all that she did, Meg trusted God to guide. Meg inspired me in life, and continues to inspire me to be a better person, a more loving wife, a more understanding mother, a more supportive friend. Now! Because we are not guaranteed tomorrow. Meg would not have sought or wanted the attention she has received, but she would have been delighted to think she inspired someone to be the Christ-like person she aspired to be. That is Meg's advent story! A guest post from Lisa Bryant: Running with an angel. I have known Scott for 8 years, but I only had the pleasure of meeting Meg, once, at the gym for a brief second while picking up our kids from child watch. But you see, knowing Scott meant knowing Meg. Her heart, spirit & love all shine very brightly in Scott's eyes & smile. I was working the day Meg was struck. I took the initial 911 call from a passerby. It was just another call, because it has to be in order to disconnect from the tragedy of it all, until another dispatcher could be heard across the room saying, "It's Scott's wife..." Then it hit. Wait a second, I know them. I know their kids. Meg was struck not 2 minutes away from my office. Knowing they were there, so close, but I couldn't leave to go help was excruciating... Knowing my friend was in this horrible place, watching his beautiful wife suffer, brought on the tears. Tears that did not stop when the next phone call came in. Someone else needed help and I had to be there for him/her. The day went by like a blur. Waiting for updates, then getting the news that Meg had passed - there are no words for that experience… I have always wanted to be a runner, but I never started out properly, and would fail. I found a plan that worked for me & FINALLY I became a runner in Oct 2013. I ran my first 5k on Thanksgiving 2013. I ran another 5k, on the virtual run, the Sat after Meg passed - I PR'd on that run. I ran the Monument Ave 10k, without stopping, for the first time! I ran the Hokie 1/2 in Oct 2014, my very first!! I ran with my heart, not my legs, on all those runs because I had Meg in my heart. I have continued to run for me, for Meg, for Scott, for the beautiful babies who lost their mom, for Pam & Wirt, for Gale. I run with, & for, my daughter, to set a good example & to show her how much anyone can achieve if they set their mind to something. I run happy, I run mad & I run sad. I run when I'm tired. I run to keep myself sane. I run to clear my mind, but it always comes back to Meg. Keeping her spirit alive. Showing others the love that Meg would. Helping her finish her work. I am grateful for the friendships that I have gained from this senseless tragedy. I wish they had come about in a different fashion, but I am grateful none the less. I am mostly grateful for Meg's love that continues to shine down from the Heavens, like golden rays of light. A guest post from Julie Raftery: I heard about Meg and ran for her that first Saturday after her death and have since followed all the inspiring stories surrounding Meg's Miles. Being a mother of five, wife and runner, her story impacted me deeply, even though I didn't know her. I haven't been one to post much, just mostly follow and listen and see how her life and death has become such an inspiration to others. Lives changed. So my story of change is because of Meg, but through Scott. I think it was right after he ran the Boston Marathon. He was happy for all the running stories of changed lives, but right after the marathon he wrote, if you really want to honor Meg, go to church this weekend. That really hit me hard. I had the running part down easy, but had strayed away from church. Everyone's story is different why they don't go to church. Here's my story! We went to an awesome church, loved it and very much a part of our everyday lives. Then we moved from Ohio to North Carolina in June, 2013. Everything I knew and loved was different. To say I struggled was an understatement. God placed people in my life, runners that helped me get through the anxiety and depression. We trained and ran several races together. Over the course of the last year, things got better. But, the church piece was still a big chunk missing. I knew it, but it was easy to just avoid it. My kids were definitely missing our church. Every Sunday, they would say, why don't we ever go to church anymore? Then I saw Scott's note on facebook after the marathon. That weekend we went to a church. Over the course of 7 months, we tried many different churches. We finally found a church we all love. My reason for writing all this is first to thank Scott. Thank you for being a brave husband and father and going through something no one should ever have to face. And through it all, remained steadfast in your faith in God. Thank you for writing that note asking everyone to go to church. My second reason for writing this is encourage everyone again, to go to church. Christmas is coming and many churches have beautiful Christmas Eve services. I know they will be glad you came and welcome you with open arms no matter what the reason you haven't gone to church. Whatever it is; never been, haven't been since childhood, not too sure about faith in God, missing an old church: just go! It might take you less than 7 months to find a church that fits you, might take you more, but my hope for all of you is that you'll try. My favorite part of my Meg's Miles shirt is the back- Because Meg ran for Him. May the Cross and Menzies families continue to be surrounded by so much love and know that through Meg's death, so many lives have been changed. Wishing all of you a Merry Christmas. A guest post from Honi Kalinowski: Scott, I think I may have shared some of this with you, your Mom, and Pam, but I thought it might be worthwhile to share it again in case I left something out. I am a mom of seven kids. (Granted, only five are still living at home). I also provide foster and emergency respite care for Henrico County. In addition to that, I babysit for other teachers and so I usually have seven children under the age of three with me for most of the day. What that means is that outside of the conversations I have with my baby/toddler’s mom’s, social workers, and family, I sometimes go long stretches without having adult conversations that don’t revolve around the antics of the cute little people in my life. So when my son started kindergarten at Kersey Creek, I was looking forward to meeting another mom (hopefully someone with a large brood like my own) that I could have some fellowship with. (Moms of multiples just get it – for example, they understand that there is no such thing as completing a full sentence in the company of children). But I kept striking out. The response I typically get when I am out with my gaggle of kids is a slightly confused, surprised, puzzled and sometimes even a disapproving look. They count heads, taking in the variety of ages and color, guess familial relationships…At best I get a smile of pity, or the dreaded “Wow, You’ve got your hands full!” Side note: Can you imagine walking up to someone’s desk at work and uttering the same phrase? Not helpful or encouraging! Better option: “You’re doing a great job! Look at you! Way to go!” Seriously, give the next parent of a bunch of kids (or a teacher!) that you see a high five and you will ROCK their day. Granted, if an onlooker brings their line of vision above the throng of kids to meet my face, it’s yet another shock to the system. I’m not exactly easy on the eyes. I can’t tell you the last time my hair has seen a comb – it’s usually sprouting wayward frizzy curls. I’ve got bags under my eyes, and it’s not unusual for me to be wearing some sort of sweats with rain boots. My shirts are decorated at the shoulder with spit up, and my glasses usually have some sort of kid print smear on them. In short, a hot mess. I’d look away too. So I was feeling sorry for myself one day while dropping off something for a classroom party. There was no mom connection. And then your beautiful Meg passed me in the hall. She gave me a smile that I have since learned is a trademark Meg smile. I don’t know how she did it but she managed to cram compassion, warmth, and kindness all into that gorgeous, welcoming smile. I was convinced I knew her, because it was the smile that a best friend, a sister, or an old friend gives in greeting. That smile lit my world up, destroyed my pity party, and made my whole day. What a gift she gave me! It was just a nanosecond but it meant so much. I made it a goal to meet her again and befriend her but sadly never got the chance before she was taken away. However, I’ve been blessed enough to get to read/hear about who she was, and to snag some of those amazing Mom hugs from her incredible Momma. (Pam, your hugs are hands down the best in the world. No exaggeration. And Wirt’s are a close second). It isn’t my only Meg memory. The other one is yet another sweet one and it involves you. It was after a play of some sort (thanksgiving? Christmas?). And as usual I was jamming up the flow of traffic, trying to maneuver my crew through the crowded hall in an effort to greet my son. Meg stood patiently by, no hint of annoyance or frustration over my bumbling efforts to squeeze in. And I watched as her gaze shifted from my stroller to looking over sweetly at you as you stepped in, scooped Skye up, and hugged her like the awesome dad that you are. She looked on lovingly, content to let you love your baby girl up, and seemed to derive so much pleasure from the scene. The look on her face is what I picture her having as she watches over you from Heaven. Love and pride. So it’s not much to offer you, just two small moments of time in the presence of your angel, but I hope that they bring you some comfort and joy. Your Meg was the reason I picked up a pair of sneakers and hit the road. Because of her legacy I was inspired to strengthen my faith (and my body) and strive to be a better Mom, and a better Christian. I went from getting winded bringing groceries in to running 10 hilly miles with your Mom last Saturday. (By the way, those are some kick butt hills; I am going to have to hit those again once my legs have forgiven me) I’ve lost 27 lbs and 4 pant sizes. And I have gained a family of friends within the runner community. Meg continues to enrich my life and I am grateful. God Bless you and your family Scott. Know that you all are in my prayers. A guest post from John Mayros: My youngest of 2 boys was in the midst of cross country season in 2013. While watching him train I got inspired by him to start running and to also live a healthier lifestyle. At the time I had spent the last 25 years or so addicted to chewing tobacco. I thought to myself that if I wanted to be around for my boys that I needed to make a change. I needed to do it. So July of 2013 I ran my first mile and continued to do so, making it a little bit farther week by week. Than I heard the tragic news of Meg's passing and immediately felt sadness and tears. Not ever knowing Meg before this, I know now that she was a devoted wife, mother, friend and sister in Christ. Since her passing I have learned more about Meg through this group and am encouraged and inspired everyday to "Dig Deep" in my own life, for my family and hopefully inspiring others to make a change like my son did for me. Thank you for the encouragement, inspiration, and friendships. Has your life been impacted by the death of Meg Menzies. Please share your story. Since January, thousands of lives have been impacted by the death of Meg Menzies. Many of us have been overwhelmed with sadness. But many of us have also found love and hope and encouragement at a time we needed it most. As we've learned more about who Meg was and accepted the call to share her legacy with the world, the stories of our lives have been forever changed. And we've seen lives around us change. If your life has been impacted by Meg's death, I invite you to share your story at the link below. It's my hope our stories will bring comfort and maybe an occasional smile to the Menzies and Cross families who greatly miss Meg, especially so over this holiday season. Submit your story here. A guest post from Robyn Larkin: I don't post often, and when I do, it's usually to share a running success because I think we all need to celebrate our successes. Today, I wanted to post to Scott. I don't know you & I may never meet you, but your story-Meg's story-found it's way to me in the Cayman Islands courtesy of a former classmate who lives in Richmond. Reading about what happened struck me in a very unexpected way--I cried for someone whom I never met, someone who lived a very different life. I am not a mother nor was I a runner. But I read about what happened & was deeply affected. Then I heard about the run for her & decided to participate. I cried the whole time, thinking about the senseless loss, you & your kids, and all who now had a Meg shaped hole in their hearts. It was a slow run, but a cleansing one. And I did it again the next day, and the next--all with Meg on my mind. Let's just say, I have since logged well over 900 miles since that day, and Meg is always part of my thoughts during the miles. I guess I continued running because it was a way that I--someone whom you possibly will never meet--can lend my support. My runs are my prayers, and I send them out to you & your family almost every day. I used to say I hate running, but as I ran today, I had an epiphany that I don't HATE it--I don't LOVE it yet, but I certainly can say I enjoy it most of the time. I feel strong and confident. And even more importantly, it has led me to 'meet' some amazing, wonderful, energetic, caring folks around the world. So I feel like you may need to know the legacy your wife is leaving--and I am a small part of that legacy, but I plan to continue sharing her spirit with others as I travel down the road of life. And I was able to this morning at a charity run where I volunteered--a woman was running her first 10K and she was about 1/4 mile from the finish. She started to walk. I jogged up to her and encouraged her, talking with her. I was so happy to share in the moment of encouraging her to finish strong in her first 10K--I'm sure it won't be her last! I felt good that a few words and minutes of my time may have given her a boost. It was a special moment for me. So sorry for the long winded post, but I just did my 10 miles I had planned to do yesterday with your group, and through it all, I kept hoping that you got what you needed out of that group run on Saturday, Scott. If you haven't guessed it, we here are your biggest fans (aside from your kids and your mom!). I am not the only one who tracked you at Boston and cried real tears when you finished. To Pamela, I also appreciate your encouragement and involvement in this group. I can't imagine what either of you go through when you read our posts, especially those where you end up providing not just encouragement but comfort to us in our own personal grief for Meg. It takes a strong, generous and amazing person to be able to help others while they themselves are suffering as well. My thoughts also wandered to what I would say if I met you; I wanted to share how Meg has touched my life in a very big way, and I hope that this post shares a bit of it with you. Sending tropical wishes to you and your family. Thank you for allowing us to carry Meg's legacy on in such a public way. You are amazing. #MegsMiles #WeRunAsOne A guest post from Shimul Ray: I first heard about Meg like so many Meg's Mile's Supporters via the Facebook page that was set-up. It was January, I had just started running again after a 2 year hiatus and on Jan. 18th when everyone was virtually running for Meg, so did I. I got on that treadmill and my goal was to dedicate 5 miles to Meg. Thinking about Meg, her family I kept going, my goal was to finish in 1 hour. I remember thinking here is a person I don't know, but like Meg, I am a mom, a wife, a daughter, a friend and so on. I could not even imagine the heartbreak that her family was going through. I really thought that what happened to Meg was so unfair. The thought sat heavy with me for a very long time, many months to be exact. I decided, I am going to keep running every week (that is how I started) and slowly increased my miles and number of times a week and finally set a goal to run the Army Ten Miler this past October. Every run I did, 5k, 10k, the neighborhood miles , I felt that Meg's angel wings were carrying me and giving me strength. I tell people all the time about Meg's story, this group and what it has meant to me. I am mostly a silent follower on the page but have posted time to time. I feel that I "know" all these running friends by everyone sharing their story. I find myself with tears many times reading all these heartfelt notes and acts of support. It's weird because I never felt like a runner, never fast enough, never ran long enough but when you see the support for Meg and how the running community has been brought together by this one angel, it is really amazing. So thank you everyone for sharing your story every day and inspiring so many others. Has your life been impacted by the death of Meg Menzies. Please share your story. Since January, thousands of lives have been impacted by the death of Meg Menzies. Many of us have been overwhelmed with sadness. But many of us have also found love and hope and encouragement at a time we needed it most. As we've learned more about who Meg was and accepted the call to share her legacy with the world, the stories of our lives have been forever changed. And we've seen lives around us change. If your life has been impacted by Meg's death, I invite you to share your story at the link below. It's my hope our stories will bring comfort and maybe an occasional smile to the Menzies and Cross families who greatly miss Meg, especially so over this holiday season. Submit your story here. A guest post from Ericka Mizuta: In the fall of 1997, I entered Virginia Commonwealth University as a freshman. I had just moved across the state to Richmond from a small town in the Appalachian mountains called Wise. Coming from a small town to a large university was somewhat of a culture shock to me, and I wanted to form some lasting friendships. In the spring of 1998 I went through rush and joined the Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority. That was when I met my pledge sister Meg, and where this story really begins. Meg was one of the most outgoing and fun pledge sisters. She was always there when needed and had a huge personality for such a small little lady. Her nickname was Meglet, and to this day I can still hear sisters calling her by the nickname and see her smiling and laughing. Meg was one of those sisters that was friends with everyone and someone that everyone wanted to be friends with. College was an exciting time and full of change for a lot of our sorority sisters. Many of us went on to grad school at MCV and eventually moved away from Richmond. It became hard to keep up with everyone and sometimes a year or two passed before we were able to catch up with each other. When you are in your early twenties it is easy to become caught up in your own life and forget to take time to remember old friends and relationships. When Facebook became popular it was really a time for all of our pledge class to catch up and that is where I was able to reconnect with Meg. At that time I had moved to San Diego as had some of our other sorority sisters. It was really fun getting to see pictures on a daily basis of all of their lives, the beautiful children, the living spouses, and to get to have a glimpse into daily lives to see what wonderful women we all had become. I loved looking at Meg's pictures of her kids, fun family trips, cake projects that she took on, and how involved she was with her family and church. All of the Sigmas have greatly changed since college and become better versions of our old selves and Meg was no exception. January 13th , 2014 was a normal workday for me, busy as usual (I own an orthopedic physical therapy practice). I was rushing from work to a quick pedicure appointment and trying to make a list of all the errands I needed to accomplish that afternoon and dreading lugging my kids (2 and 7 months at the time) with me. While I was waiting I decided to scroll through Facebook quickly and there I saw a post from another pledge sister Lora Humphries in reference to Meg and an accident. I quickly started checking her page and realized what had happened. It's hard to describe the feeling you have when you find out that one of your young friends has passed away and even harder when you try to comprehend the tragic nature of the accident and the tremendous loss that her family, especially her children and husband feel. Sitting in that waiting room I felt like time stood still. All I could think of was Scott (Meg had been with him as long as I can remember) and how he must have felt being there and how were their children ever going to understand and remember what a special and caring person their mother was. I had tears running down my face just thinking of how he was going to tell their children that mommy was not coming home. I felt guilty for being so worried a few moments before that my kids were going to slow down my errands and make the afternoon difficult. Tragedies often give one a different perspective and outlook on life and losing Meg definitely did that for me. Since Meg's passing I have really tried to cherish every moment with my kids, family, and friends because none of us know when that will be taken from us. I hug them a little tighter and rock them a little longer because those are the precious moments that will be over too soon. Meg also inspires me on a day basis to really commit to goals and give 110%. Even in college after pulling an all nighter and having a hectic day the day before Meg would get up and go for a run. She loved her running passion deeply and let nothing stand In her way. Meg fought injuries to qualify for Boston, and gave her all to everything she did. In her passing Meg has become larger than life and touched more lives than she could ever have imagined. She has inspired thousands to be better parents, give back to community, persevere through difficulties, and to be overall better people. This group makes me happy because all of you keep her spirit alive everyday. Meg's memory and what she stands for are alive here and always will be. It is a safe place that her family now comes to and one day her children can come to see what an amazing person Meg was and that her spirit will always be alive in all things good. Violets to you Meglet. Sigma love always, Ericka Craft Mizuta Sigma Sigma Sigma #163 Has your life been impacted by the death of Meg Menzies. Please share your story. Since January, thousands of lives have been impacted by the death of Meg Menzies. Many of us have been overwhelmed with sadness. But many of us have also found love and hope and encouragement at a time we needed it most. As we've learned more about who Meg was and accepted the call to share her legacy with the world, the stories of our lives have been forever changed. And we've seen lives around us change. If your life has been impacted by Meg's death, I invite you to share your story at the link below. It's my hope our stories will bring comfort and maybe an occasional smile to the Menzies and Cross families who greatly miss Meg, especially so over this holiday season. Submit your story here. A guest post from an anonymous contributor: Meg Menzies. A name I have never heard before that fateful day in January...and one that I have not been able to get out of my mind since then. I have tried to keep up with the MegsMiles group and, while I read all of the posts every day, my brain starts to get overwhelmed by trying to keep track of the names and life stories that go with them, and so I tend to be more of a "lurker" than a participator. Back in January, while reading about Meg and her story, I was taken aback by the number of similarities that I saw. She, a wife and Mom of three kids, a Christian, a wife of a police officer, living in a town called "Hanover", a runner, and having her family's life forever changed because of the actions of a person who should not have been behind the wheel of a car that morning. Me, a wife and mother of three kids, a Christian, living in a different state but also in a town called "Hanover", a runner, the daughter of a police officer who was struck by a drunk driver when I was a kid. While my father survived his injuries, our lives were forever changed because of the actions of that driver. Life was never the same as it was before that day. So many people in this group have amazing, tangible stories of how their lives have been forever changed because of Meg. While I have nothing tangible to show in mine...yet...hearing her story and how she has affected so many people has given me a desire to leave some kind of legacy for my children and the hope that, in some small way, I can make a mark on this world before I am called home. Meg has touched the hearts of so many and for that we are all thankful. I want to also say how thankful I am to Scott and Mrs. Cross and the entire Menzies/Cross families. In their time of grief, when they had every right to ask for privacy and for people to leave them alone as they grieved, they have opened their hearts and lives to people that they had never even known before that day. They are living through a year of "firsts" without their precious Meg and, yet, they have allowed our group to grieve with them and have offered words of encouragement and healing to many members of the MegsMiles Supporters. What a testimony of Christian love. Like Doris from an earlier post, I feel like I really don't deserve to comment on this Advent Calendar but I just kept feeling that I needed to share my thoughts. While I know I will never impact the world the way that Meg has, her legacy has awakened the desire in me to do "something" - I just need to figure out what that "something" is. Thank you to all of you who pay it forward and keep Meg's legacy going. Thank you to Meg's family for beautiful acts of kindness that you show to this group every single day. And thank you, Meg, for stirring something in my soul and giving me a desire to do more. May you all be blessed this Christmas season! Has your life been impacted by the death of Meg Menzies. Please share your story. Since January, thousands of lives have been impacted by the death of Meg Menzies. Many of us have been overwhelmed with sadness. But many of us have also found love and hope and encouragement at a time we needed it most. As we've learned more about who Meg was and accepted the call to share her legacy with the world, the stories of our lives have been forever changed. And we've seen lives around us change. If your life has been impacted by Meg's death, I invite you to share your story at the link below. It's my hope our stories will bring comfort and maybe an occasional smile to the Menzies and Cross families who greatly miss Meg, especially so over this holiday season. Submit your story here. A guest post from Ed Deiss: Stories, they connect and they bind. It is about where we came from and where we’re going; the story of God and mankind, amongst love and fear and failure, that we make meaning of our lives. It’s what allows us to connect with each another, to truly know and be known. Nothing is so warm and inviting, yet so challenging and poignant, as a powerful story, told well. They are to be shared not only for our own sake, but for the benefit of others; stories change people. I think about what Jeff Goins said about the power of a story as I run #megsmiles, and I have never run so much in my life since January 18th, 2014. I live a few miles down the road from the Menzies and Cross families in Hanover, Virginia. Having never run more than 5 miles continuously in my life, that week in January 2014, I signed up to run Meg’s Miles and have not stopped. Even did first half marathon this past fall, with another one slated for this spring. When I think of #megsmiles, the group and the purpose, I think of the power of a story and the fact that there are no ordinary lives. As the days become long and the years short along the road of our adventures and journeys through life, I’m sure those reading can relate that we’re going to encounter bumps and jagged rocks as we climb through the years. Many of them hurt, scar, and can leave us sore and bruised. However we can choose to see all the bumps, bruises, and scars not in terms of the damage they caused, rather as providing focus to a higher plane of living; they make you strong. #megstrong. I have run three times on Hickory Hill, the streets where Meg and Scott would run. I will never forget my run there the day Scott ran the 2014 Boston Marathon through Meg’s eyes, defining the true meaning of 1 Corinthians 13. A mile in, I stopped with the sun setting over a scenic Hanover farm field as I could not continue. It was as if I was punched in the gut and not having any air, I openly wept while hunched over with hands on my knees. I came to face my own reflections of being raised by a single parent and almost having my mom’s life taken right before my eyes, and struggled to come to terms with what occurred to Meg, Scott, their children and their families that January day. How to keep moving when the fog of a broken heart disorients and makes it hard to see the road? Faith, the assurance of things hoped for, conviction of things not seen. It was Scott’s journey and run that day that manifested itself, it was friends and connections through #megsmiles, it was being grateful for family and friends that are always there. I was able to get back to it and keep running. Grew stronger that day; thanks Scott and Meg. Thanks #megsmiles. I wrote before my first half marathon a letter to Meg, “…you have brought together so many lives and changed them, more than you will ever know. You have encouraged me to live life to the fullest, have no regrets, honor myself, and invest in the lives of others. You have encouraged me in my faith, and the faith to carry on. What I have also learned from you is that lives can impact others, even those we have not met…know you are running where the streets have no name. There will be a day Meg, when I will be making that run as well…save some room. Look forward to it. Whether it’s posting running maps, deciding where to meet up, or letting someone know where I live, have to use a street name. Streets and neighborhoods are part of who we are; and running #megsmiles we all can go there with someone, even though have never been. It bonds and unites across time zones, countries, ethnicities and nationalities. How great it is to run and go somewhere where everyone comes together, where we can get to know each other and relate about what matters regardless of street names and neighborhoods. Running #megsmiles, I go there with you. We all can go. I’m grateful for another gift not found under the Christmas tree. A guest post from Kathy Poling: When I read what had happened to Meg I was heartbroken for her family, for the loss of such a beautiful young wife,mommy,daughter,amazing runner, & child of God. I did not know Meg but the stories I have read have touched my heart. I am most affected by Megs story in the picture she painted of Gods grace in the way she lived her life. I've seen that picture through the stories some of you have shared and an interview that I watched her husband Scott give. I don't remember Scotts exact words but he spoke about how Meg would want others to know about Jesus more than anything else. I love the stories of how Meg had a servants heart and worked in childrens ministry. Megsmiles is an amazing group of people...may we carry on Megs gift of being an encourager and an extender of Gods grace. Has your life been impacted by the death of Meg Menzies. Please share your story.
Since January, thousands of lives have been impacted by the death of Meg Menzies. Many of us have been overwhelmed with sadness. But many of us have also found love and hope and encouragement at a time we needed it most. As we've learned more about who Meg was and accepted the call to share her legacy with the world, the stories of our lives have been forever changed. And we've seen lives around us change. If your life has been impacted by Meg's death, I invite you to share your story at the link below. It's my hope our stories will bring comfort and maybe an occasional smile to the Menzies and Cross families who greatly miss Meg, especially so over this holiday season. Submit your story here. A guest post from Dana Taylor: I had no intention of writing an advent story, as there are so many wonderful people on this site that have incredible stories to share. I have read these stories every morning and have been even more inspired by this group, and I wasn't sure that was possible. Meg's story resonated with me immediately, as it did with so many others. I remember on the day of MegsMiles run I was driving through the Fan in Richmond and actually had to pull the car over to the side of the road and cry. To see so many folks decked out in blue, wearing their bibs, was more than I could handle. Fast forward several months later, and after occasional posting and pretty constant lurking, I got to meet so many of you in Richmond. About that same time, I started experiencing some difficulties in my life - ones that don't need to be discussed, but that have had a pretty decent emotional impact on me. Every day, when I look at posts on the site, I see a caring group of people who have become my friends. Ones that make me laugh at a time I didn't believe a had a laugh to spare. I see folks paying it forward through the now famous DD beanies, and that warms my heart. I see Meg's friends and family, who continue to press on, and I know that what I am dealing with is so minor in comparison. By the way, a hug from Pamela Cross has healing properties - the hugs I got at the expo and after the race meant more than she will ever know. So thank you to everyone in this group who inspires and lifts me constantly, and to Meg, for bringing us all together. Her legacy of love will continue to flourish through her family and through the many caring people who continue to launch those ripples of kindness. A guest post from Amy Randolph: I never met Meg, however, I’ve bonded with her through MegSmiles. When I heard of her last run, the floodgates opened. I have been a runner for 35 years and have run Boston twice, but more importantly, I have two children of my own and a wonderful husband who runs, also. We run together almost every day, just as Scott and Meg once did. That could have been my husband! That could have been me! It really hit me hard. Last January, I was burdened with my nephew’s death from brain cancer the previous October and dealing with my Grandfather’s terminal illness and my brother’s pancreatic cancer (both passed this year) on top of my sister spiraling down the path of heroin addiction and homelessness. My problems were so close to me that I couldn’t deal with them and I couldn’t cry, however, Meg opened that door for me and allowed me to mourn. Boy! Did I cry! At the time, I was so confused of why I could cry for someone (and for a family) I never knew, but not for the people in my own life who had died or who were dying or suffering. MegSmiles was therapy for me at the beginning, but now it’s a place I go to for inspiration, for joy, for hope and for love. It’s such an uplifting page filled with encouragement and support about running and about living a life filled with love for one another. Meg has inspired me on my runs, but also, MORE IMPORTANTLY to help people instead of running. When you are a runner, like I am, running can become selfish. So, I’ve given up some of my weekend runs to help others and the reward is so much greater. I challenge you to run for Meg, but also GIVE UP A RUN when you can to help others around you who are in need. Spread the love and make Meg smile! Has your life been impacted by the death of Meg Menzies. Please share your story. Since January, thousands of lives have been impacted by the death of Meg Menzies. Many of us have been overwhelmed with sadness. But many of us have also found love and hope and encouragement at a time we needed it most. As we've learned more about who Meg was and accepted the call to share her legacy with the world, the stories of our lives have been forever changed. And we've seen lives around us change. If your life has been impacted by Meg's death, I invite you to share your story at the link below. It's my hope our stories will bring comfort and maybe an occasional smile to the Menzies and Cross families who greatly miss Meg, especially so over this holiday season. Submit your story here. |