A guest post from Courtenay Fisher: My story is reminiscent of so many others that have been shared here and through posts on megsmiles. I didn't have the privilege of knowing Meg, but her tragic passing dealt me a gut wrenching blow that felt undeservedly personal. I wondered if my reaction stemmed from the basics that Meg and I shared in common; I'm also a mother, a wife, a daughter, a runner… but those similarities alone didn't explain the heartache that persisted or the undeniable ray of light I felt in looking at Meg's pictures and the megsmiles posts. Like so many others, I laced up and ran for Meg and her family on that first memorial run almost a year ago and continued to log miles for Meg and her family. In doing so, I became that much more grateful for every run, every day of strength and good health, time with my family and friends. I began a practice of stepping outside for my early morning runs and saying "good morning" to Meg and my other angels, and giving thanks for my health, strength and family. I also took to heart Scott's message that, above all, Meg would want to encourage us to go to church. And so I did that, too. As a kid, I'd gone to church on a somewhat regular basis, but God and faith weren't common topics of family discussion. I struggled with my own stubbornness and independence, and often felt frustrated that on the topic of faith I had more questions than answers. After a life-changing move to Virginia and the even more life-changing births of my kids, some of that frustration and stubbornness began to fade. I was blessed to meet people who were simply good examples of the positivity of real faith. I still had questions, but I began to realize that perhaps we (or I) should not overthink the answers. This past August my husband and I headed out to the Patrick Henry Half Marathon on a brutally humid morning. Despite the weather, I wondered if a PR was possible - I was in the midst of marathon training and thought I was well-conditioned. As we parked, a random thought popped into my head, almost like a whisper, that "Scott is an Ashland cop" (and my first-born, rule follower, self immediately responded with, "is it ok to say 'cop' instead of 'policeman'?" but anyway ...) I almost nodded to myself, somewhat surprised, then tried again to focus on the race. We walked toward the start and as we got into a line for the port-a-potties a police officer approached us. He said, "I want to thank you for wearing that shirt. I'm Scott Menzies." I shook his hand with both of mine and barely managed to tell him how glad I was to meet him. As he walked away I broke down in tears while my husband took my hand. And then I had another of those random, whisper-like thoughts … Hebrews 12:1 "let us run with endurance the race set before us". I'm sure that I'd seen that verse before (probably on the back of someone's race shirt), but it's real meaning didn't hit me until that moment. I didn't get a PR that day - not even close - but I ran with endurance and a grateful heart. After the race I posted my sentiments about meeting Scott in megsmiles and mentioned that I would have liked to say more, to better express my condolences and what the group has meant to me. Once again I was humbled when some of Meg's other family members posted back thoughtful comments telling me that "he knows". It was just another example of the overwhelming grace that Meg's family has shown to so many of us who didn't know Meg, or them, before her passing. More recently my husband asked me to describe the general, daily posts in megsmiles. He's watched me follow megsmiles for all these many months, seen my countless tears for Meg and her family, seen my smiles of joy for the successes of those in the group and smiled himself as yet another "I run for Meg" shirt arrived in the mail (I couldn't help myself!). But having never read the posts he was curious. Adjectives like "uplifting", "positive", "supportive", and "inspirational" started pouring out of my mouth. Although those words all fit, I felt that my description wasn't doing justice to Meg's spirit and the the spirit of the group. Then I blurted out, "it's almost like a snapshot of how you'd hope people to be." While that may sound naive (improper grammar aside), it seems to be a big part of Meg's legacy and her light. And so perhaps that's the hook, the glue. We are heartbroken for the family's loss and still Meg's light has pulled us in and lifts us up, showing us how to support her family and one another as best we can until the day they all run together again. A guest post from Jess Reilly: So I have been trying to put in to words how Meg Menzies has touched my life. The words have escaped me. I, like many of you, never met her. I learned of her passing on Facebook. I ran for her on the 18th of January. I changed so many things about what I did when I ran. I was more cautious, more aware of cars and people. It was so much bigger than that though… I have 3 young children too. I have been with my husband since we were in our teens, I’m a runner…I felt a connection with her in so many ways. I followed Scott thru Boston. I cried when he finished. Then Richmond Marathon came and I was able to experience it all thru everyone’s post. I wished I could have been there to hug you all and here stories of Meg and her life. I just may get there next year! Somehow, I feel her with me sometimes. I’ve struggled on runs, and I talk to her and she’s gotten me thru. I have looked at my life and want to live it better, to give more, to love more, to have stronger faith. I come to this page daily. I read this Advent posts at the start of every day. I shed tears at each one. It all started with the passing of this amazing woman. I will continue to run Megstrong. I wish her family the Merriest of Christmas’. And you all too, this megsmiles family is like no other! 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.
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Guest post from Anna Antell: I am a mother, a wife, a runner, and a licensed clinical social worker. When I heard about the tragedy of Meg's passing, I felt the loss in all parts of my being. It stung my core, and touched everything I know and believe about parenting, about being a partner, about running, and about trauma and loss. I felt raw. Acutely, I felt the fragility of this life and the enormous impact of loss. As I drove the streets of Hanover County for work, put in my weekly running miles, and carried on my family responsibilities, I found myself consumed with thoughts and feelings for Meg and her family. I was in awe that while I had never met them, I could profoundly feel the loss of Meg and empathize so deeply with her family. In the first couple of months I posted frequently on the MegsMiles page, offering reflections from my daily miles, and wishes of support and healing to Meg's friends and family. Since then I post less frequently, though Meg and her family are forever connected to my whole being. Because of Meg's Story, I am more aware when I am on the roads. I wear more safety gear when it is dark outside, and check multiple times before I cross streets. Because of Meg's story, my runs have more meaning. Runs are not something I have to do (though for the sake of my sanity, they kind of are!), but rather something I have the ability to do. And because of Meg's Story, I try each day to be more present; to impart on my children both through my actions and my words the importance of gratitude. Gratitude for the gifts of now. The journey of grief is a long, bumpy, and windy one. During this season, my deepest wishes for peace and healing are with Meg's family and friends. I hope that the impact of Meg's beautiful legacy both on me and on people across the world offers comfort to her friends and family. Run on friends. Guest post from Emily Endert: My husband is the runner in our family. We both walked for Meg last January. Now I think of Meg every time I see a runner, walker or cyclist on the road and I pray for save travels for them and the cars they encounter along the way. I work in Human Resources in a Hanover county business. The week Meg died one of my co-workers who knew Meg asked about our Substance Abuse policy and how the testing for cause part of the policy works. It highlighted an opportunity for a policy review in our next all staff meeting. My co-worker wanted to know what she should do if she suspected someone to be intoxicated at work, and what management would do if it was it was reported. Her question opened the public conversation and prompted education on how and when to report. My hope is that this little bit of prevention repeated annually will keep the roads and the workplace a little safer. Meg continues to have an impact on many lives, and not just in the running community. Guest post from Kelly Bauer: I remember seeing this online and I remember tears coming immediately. We don't know how long we are on this earth and how fast things can change. I could only imagine what her family felt hearing this horrible story. I knew that I had a long race coming up that weekend and when I saw so many dedicating their miles to Meg it was amazing. That Sunday I knew I had hills to tackle and the only thought I had was Meg and I won't quit. I was speechless at the amount of people that ran and put their miles in for Meg. I feel blessed that I could be apart of this. Meg left her mark on the world to so many people. What a blessing that is. Bless her family. 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 Belinda Fremouw: A young lady taken from this earthly world too soon. A wife, a mother, a daughter. And an obvious inspiration to everyone that was blessed enough to cross paths with her. A beautiful, gentle smile in a photograph, that is how I know Meg. As a New England native, Boston is my city. My niece had run the marathon a few years previously and after the events of 2013, I prayed for healing for my city. And then I heard Meg’s story and I was reminded of that moment when I learned my best friend had been robbed of her life by a drunk driver. The similarities were there and my heart broke all over again. But the sorrow in my heart was quickly replaced by hope, by love, and by light. The magic of a true Christian – a light that is not put out by death, but only grows brighter the more people it reaches. That is the magic light of Meg and of the Megsmiles group. There is so much anger, bitterness, hate, and blame pervading our society. It is hard not to get caught up in it. But the one thing that can repel hate is love. Our group, our Megsmiles family, is about love, acceptance, and an unconditional inspiration. Political parties, skin color, demographics, gender, education, nationality, employment – these things do not define us and they certainly do not divide us and will not divide us. Because we run as one. I have connected with people who are and will be forever friends. They inspire me, connect me, and remind me that there is so much good in this world. As a new runner, I find myself lifted up by this new family I have, and I think of them when I’m afraid I can’t take another step. And then I cross that finish line and thank God for His angel Meg that He sent to us. And then I wonder, what would our country be like if they were all Megsmilers? We can only pray that our light shines so brightly that we are able to reach the darkest corners of our country and be the change we want to see in the world. It’s the least we can do in Meg’s honor. Guest post from Cathy Northington: I did not know Meg or her family and I can't say I do now. But as a Mother I felt connected. As a person that survived my own personal tragedy I felt connected. I grieved deeply for the family as I had for myself and my family 14 years earlier. Early on when the site was put up some questioned why faith was being brought into it. That it should be about all runners regardless of their religious beliefs. I can't quote what my response was but I felt I had to stand up for Meg because from all I had read she had great and abiding faith. And so I said something to that effect. I figured Meg would steer it in the right direction and she did. I am not a runner. But I have been inspired to get out there. 2 miles, then 4 and 4 and 5! Felt great except I was wearing converse allstars. I care for my 90 year old Dad here in Richmond and am in the process of shutting down my house in Portsmouth. So the last time I was home I dug out my running shoes. Caring for Dad I don't get the chance to get out much but next time I will be ready. Thanks for getting me out there! To Scott and family, know that I am thinking of you and praying for you. Thank you for allowing me to be part of the Megsmiles family. Guest post from Kelly Anderson: I have never in my life been a runner. Not as a child, not as a teenager, and not as a young adult. I suffer from reactive airways disease, and before that, I suffered from "Ican'tdothis-itis", a dreadful condition of the mind. I tried the Couch to 5K app 3 times and never made it past the first week. However, in July of last year, I decided to train for my town's 5K race. My son is a runner. He runs track and cross country for his middle school. I wanted to connect with him in a new way so I decided to give it a shot. I trained and completed the race in just under 40 minutes. Tears of joy and disbelief ran down my face as I crossed the finish line. I couldn't believe it - I had run a 5K! I kept running through the fall, but found I wasn't quite as motivated without a goal in sight. Then, it was January 13, and I was reading a story about a woman from my hometown who was killed while running. I've always had a particularly hard time hearing about the untimely passing of a mother. It just took me to my knees. Like tens of thousands of others, I ran for Meg on January 18, and all I could think about was Meg, whom I never met, and how I was reading countless posts about what an amazing woman she was. Before I knew it, I was mentally committing to running a half marathon in her honor. In May of this year, I completed my first half in Brooklyn, NY. It was one of the most incredible experiences I've ever had. Not only because I accomplished something that I NEVER thought was even interesting to me, let alone possible, but because I ran for Meg. I ran for her and all the amazing people whom I've "met" as a part of this support group. The level of support here is truly a gift from God. It has made me keep going at times when I was ready to give up. It has given all of us an opportunity to lift others up when they need it. On November 15, I ran the half marathon in Richmond. I ran it with a high school friend whom I hadn't seen since high school. We spent 13.1 miles catching up on life for the past 26 years. And we both ran for Meg. We cheered when we saw other Meggers running or cheering us on. I will continue to run, because honestly now, I'm totally and hopelessly addicted to it, but also because I want to continue to honor Meg and the type of person she was. I am so thankful for Meg and for the blessings of this group, who support each other every day. 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. Guest post from Doris Larrondo: I feel like I have no place writing here. Everyone who's written has had such incredible stories that mine has nothing to touch. But I am going to write this because of what this site has meant to me. I am a "silent" Megger. I say that with a smile because I don't mind being the person behind everyone else. I often "like" everything, follow many people, know many by name and now heart, pray for all and a lot by name now as well. I have followed this group from the beginning and have supported a few of the fundraisers for the family...but what does that mean, right? I am a mother of 3 myself, picked up running a couple of years ago to 'do something' and it has become a love/hate relationship for me. Throughout high school I have always participated in sports and I needed something-an outlet-for me now. Running, though has always been my nemesis. I am not a runner. Never have been. I am a sprinter and it kills me to run such long distances. But slowly I would push through mentally, physically. When I became a follower of this group, the inspiration grew. When I ran, I would think of Meg, and pray for her family. Then I would read everyone's miles put in everyday, which would inspire me more, push a little harder, pray a little longer and be more thankful-of the ability to run, for my family, for all who joined such a wonderful group to give such support for a hurting husband and family, for everything. Sometime back in Sept. my IT band was really acting up and I couldn't run for a few weeks which really disappointed me. I admit I became a little depressed not being able to run. No, I'm not a runner but just to be out on the street was MY time. MY devotional time, My stress-reliving time, My relaxing (but not) time. When I started running a couple miles again. I was so thankful I almost started crying for the feeling just to be out there. And when I participate in races, it isn't JUST about running. It's to push myself a little more, try to beat each time and become a better runner, but mostly because each run is for a purpose. For me, all the Meggers, her family, for God who has given me this opportunity and of course for the sole purpose of the run itself whatever they are promoting. So I wanna thank you for putting this together. Like I said, my story doesn't really belong, but I wanted to let you know and everyone know that there are people out there who read these inspirations daily. And when Scott ran the Boston Marathon...SOB!!! I can't tell you have many times I've cried sad and happy tears reading all these posts (Tracy's most recent). I feel like I have a connection with everyone here and wish everyone the absolute best in everything they do. 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. Guest post from Kimberly Caldwell: Like so many MegsMiles supporters, I did not know Meg. I feel that we may have had the opportunity to meet if I had lived in Richmond longer. Since I am still connected to the running community in Richmond, I heard of Megs passing the day it happened. Such shock and disbelief. I had been meaning to get back to running after having a C-section December 11 and the Saturday designated to run for Meg seemed like a little extra incentive to get back out there. It also made me want to get back to Richmond and run the Ukrops 10k in my Meg shirt in supprot of her family. Like so many, I wondered what made her story affect me and so many people and travel so far. Was is that she was a mother? A great runner? I truly believe it was her joy and her spirit. A joy that only comes from knowing Jesus as her savior. Hearing all of the stories from people who knew her personally she seemed to radiate that joy. I wish I had had the opportunity to meet her. What her story has done for me, besides getting me back out there running, is getting me back to praying more often. How can I not pray every time I am reminded of Meg? Prayers for her family, her children, the days/months/years ahead. Prayer for my own family and trying to not take time for granted. Cherishing time with my young daughter. So Lord, I pray for Scott, the kids, Pam and the rest of the Menzies and Cross families. I pray that you and Meg will wrap them in your arms. That they may feel your presence. These days must be unimaginably difficult. I pray that they may have a few breaths that come a little easier. Day by day. In the name of Jesus Christ our savior. Amen. And I will continue to run. Guest post from Cyndi Trombley: On January 18, 2014 - I ran my most important mile. It wasn't my fastest and it wasn't my best but it was by far the most important mile I'd ever run. I braved the cold, reacquainted with my old running sneakers and hit the snowy trail. I ran with my husband, but over 56,000 other runners from all over the world joined us. It was a virtual run for a woman I'd never met. It was to honor Meg Menzies. I wasn't always a runner. To be honest, I'd be lying if I said I'd ever experienced the elusive "runners high". But I get out there when I need to, for the most part. I started running when I was 39, because I wanted to run the Rocky Steps in Philly on my 40th Birthday. Who lives just outside of Philly their whole life and never runs the Rocky Steps? Exactly. So I started running (and, yes I spent my 40th birthday with Rocky). As often as I started, I stopped. My running journey became one of running for a few months, then hibernating for a few months. On January 13th, 2014: Meg Menzies, a young mother of 3, was killed by a driver under the influence while she was on her morning training run with her husband, Scott. The running community rallied behind this family and on January 18, 2014 - 56, 000 runners ran to honor her memory. I had the pleasure of meeting Scott Menzies when my husband surprised me by taking me to her Memorial in Ashland Virginia. Despite what has happened to him, his family, his wife - he remains a grateful man. He thanked ME for running for Meg, can you imagine? On January 18, 2014, I ran my most important mile for Meg Menzies and she's been with me every mile since. Guest post from Debbie Edwards: "...To comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve —to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor." Isaiah 61:3 For me, this advent season, this verse has echoed through my head. God's ability to use tragedy for His purposes and our good overwhelms me. Each of us have been drawn to this story, this family, this remarkable woman in our own way and for our own reasons. I have related so much to Pam Cross, Meg's mom. I am a mother of a daughter who started me on my running journey almost 7 years ago. Like Pam, I am a grandmother to the precious children of my daughter. I cannot imagine a world without their mother. Yet, God has used this tragic event to bring together an amazing support group for all of us as we do life together. The faith of this family and their witness to the world draws us closer to God and each other. We have watched as new friendships have formed, stories shared, gifts (the DD beanie movement) given. God has shown us beauty in each other and our achievements, joy in our relationships and our runs, garments of praise as all over the world we honor Meg's memory in our Meg shirts. While my daughter motivated me to become a runner at age 47, Pam's daughter inspired me to do something I never thought possible a year ago (much less 10 years ago). I completed my first marathon in November with so many of you. We are standing as oaks of righteousness, a planting of The Lord, displaying His splendor. 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. Guest post from Tracy Lowrance: I didn't know Meg, but I know many who did. After reading about her tragic death and her beautiful life, running has taken on new meaning for me. The sense of community that has been created through Meg's Miles supporters on Facebook has brought me to tears on more than one occasion. Even though I don't know the Cross or Menzies families, I think of them often and wonder how they are doing. I pay attention more now to the things that I overlooked before, and I appreciate what running has done for me all these years - and the fact that I can run. Guest post from Jenny Richie: I live in the same town where Meg and Scott started their family. A matter of fact, their first house was a few down from my husband's and mine. We would often see Meg out running or walking with the kids. She was always so kind to us. I remember seeing her run and think "wow I wish I had that dedication." In the wake of her death I have found it. I run in her honor and for her family. I think of her family every day and I strive to help those in need. You see, I work at the local school and when people ask "how many children I have, I tell them 400." I know one day I will no longer walk or run these roads but I can only hope that I will have been able to touch one child's life - as they are our future. I love the way all the runners have come together as a family through social media and the support that has been pouring out to Meg's loved ones. I will run Meg strong during my first marathon (never thought I would say that) in November right here in Richmond Guest post from Lynette Adams: I remember the day I read about Meg's story. I was sitting in my kitchen, getting breakfast ready for my three kids, and once I got them off to school, planning to go for a run. I read the story and immediately started crying. I thought, that could have been me out there leaving three kids behind. My heart was broken for the loss of Meg and for her family. I couldn't quite explain why her story affected me so much. The next week, I could not get Meg's story off of my mind. I found myself on the trail running, stopping, crying for Meg and her family. Crying for her sweet children, who are the same gender and close to the same age as my three children. Then Brooke planned the virtual run to honor Meg. I was very excited to participate in this race to honor this amazing woman who I had never met. I ran on that day for Meg and her family, and once again was brought to tears by the loss of her. I didn't even know her, but the loss of Meg hit me to the core. I felt so sad, and couldn't understand why someone like her was taken from us. I kept following Meg's page and started finding some peace, love, comfort and solace in reading the inspiring posts people were writing about their running adventures, and all running in honor of Meg! I began being more aware on my runs, appreciating the scenery, the quiet, the sound of my feet hitting the ground. I became more grateful for each step I was taking on the trail. It was so beautiful. I followed Scott's journey to Boston, and cheered him on every step of the way. I knew that race was so hard for him, running in Meg's place, wanting to run that race to "feel Meg with him". I was crying when he finished. Meg's beautiful shoe tree memorial stuck with me as well. So many people went to honor this beautiful person, Meg, by hanging their running shoes. Why are we all so affected by this story? Maybe because she reminds us of ourselves. Maybe she reminds us of who we want to become. Maybe she inspires us to start running for the first time. Maybe she inspires us to be better runners if we are already on the running journey. Maybe she inspires us to bring God into our lives. Maybe Meg inspires us to be a better mother, daughter, friend or wife. Meg has done all of those things for me. I am so grateful for the friendships I have made through this running community, and I'm grateful for Meg. 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. Guest post from Kelly Clark: As the facts of Megs terrible tragedy were released, it became more and more unbelievable. Specifics that cannot seem real but something meant for a movie left me astonished. The first detail that gave me any personal insight into Meg was that Scott was a police officer. The picture of their life was quickly painted in the days that followed. We learned of the Cross and Menzies families. Megsmiles Facebook page was created spreading the story around the world reaching hundreds of thousands people. It seemed everyone knew who Meg Cross was and what happened. This isn't the only story to gain such global attention. Many others have, but most of these are quickly forgotten. Through no marketing or promotion, Megs story continues to grow, reaching more and more every day. A culminating event was November 14-16, the Richmond marathon & half. So many 'Meggers' came together, many of us meeting close friends face to face for the first time. It was an emotional weekend of hugs, tears, laughter, smiles, high five's, jumping, eating, oh, and a little running! I have truly never felt such a huge, tangible feeling of love in a setting such as this. Since that weekend, I've wondered what makes this movement what it is. What is the tie that keeps us together. There have been tragedies such as this that pull people together. All to often, daily life calls and attention is drawn elsewhere. Megsmiles is the exception. We are still a strong community for almost a year with no sign of slowing down. All of us have wondered why Meg was taken from us. It is a question for which I don't have an answer. I do know that Meg is with us all, we are Meg. She is the glue that keeps all of us together. I honestly believe her endless capacity for love is living in all of us as we share it with each other and everyone in our lives. A guest post from Tiffany Eisentrout: I took Chorus when I was in the 8th grade. The teacher that year was new and her name was Mrs. Cross. She is the reason that I began singing and to this day, still do. I discovered my love of it through her. To me (and everyone else that was in her class), Mrs. Cross was the best teacher, EVER. She was kind but firm when she had to be. She laughed right along with us and knew how to cut loose too but could also keep us grounded and focused. Mrs. Cross would have done anything for anyone of us. To say Mrs. Cross was genuine is an understatement. She treated us like one of her own. Truthfully, I think she thought of us as “her kids”. In that class was Mrs. Cross’ actual daughter, Meg. Meg was always smiling. Her smile was infectious and if you were with her, you were smiling too. I spent the next 5 years of school in chorus or show choir with Meg. There was lots of singing and dancing but there were also lots of laughs. Similar to the running community, those of us that were in it for the long haul formed a close bond. We traveled together and supported each other during shows and competitions. We shared in our collective triumphs and our bumps in the road. After high school, many of us went our separate ways and even lost touch. Thanks to Facebook, I had reconnected with Meg and was even more thrilled when I realized that we went to the same gym. It was in our boxing class together where we caught up on each other’s lives. Husbands, kids, running and how Meg had worked her way up to a 5 min plank during commercial breaks while watching TV (crazy, right?). It was in January, right before a boxing class, when Amanda and I shared with Meg that we were in fact crazy and had just signed up for the Richmond Marathon. In true Meg fashion, she eagerly said (with a huge smile on her face), that she would love to get together with us and talk about all things training. She was thrilled for us that we were planning for 26.2 in the Fall. We never did get the chance to sit down with Meg for that talk. After Meg passed, an event was planned and a Facebook group was born that became something bigger than any of us could have ever hoped or imagined it would become. Even though Meg isn’t physically here anymore, her spirit shines through in Meg’s Miles. Every inspirational, gratitude filled, supportive, motivational, struggling, asking for help, smiling, laughing, jumping, faith-filled post is Meg. She brought people together from around the world and they are the most amazing people I have had the pleasure of meeting. Some I have literally met already and there is a bond there that will never be broken. Some I feel like I already know so well just from seeing them on the page. I often can’t put into words how grateful I am to see the ripple effect that honoring Meg’s memory and continuing her legacy has. I see Tracey , Keith and Scott “clowning” around on threads and my heart is glad that Scott has such wonderful friends and an ever growing support system. When I see Pam posting on the page or commenting, or simply liking posts, I know that she is there to be uplifted, to feel the presence of Meg’s spirit through this movement. On a daily basis, I try so hard to be a better runner, wife, mother, daughter, sister and child of God because of Meg’s inspiration. I don’t know what the future holds for any of us as individuals or as a group. I do know that there is something happening here and it’s bigger than all of us. If we keep this up and we stay grounded in the purpose of this group, we can change lives, we can put smiles on people’s faces, we can lead people to have faith in something that maybe they never had before or we can encourage them to be stronger in the faith they have now. That to me is what Meg would do if she were still here. That to me is Meg’s legacy. 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. Guest post from Julie Bowman: When I learned of the passing of Meg, I immediately felt connected to her. Although I did not know her personally, I know some of the same people that she and Scott know. Meg and I are both mothers of three children. We both love God, our church, our families, and to RUN. I prayed for this family and supported them by buying a t-shirt and proudly wearing it to races. In April – I ran the Ashland Railroad Run race. I had an injury at the time – so I could only run the 5K while most were running the 10K. It was the first race that my friend and I were not able to go to together so I was out there solo. Upon finishing, a police officer approached me on his bike and told me he liked my shirt. I was still trying to catch my breath – and then I put two and two together. I said, “Are you Scott?” And he said, “yes.” It was all I could do to contain my emotions and calm down from the run. I quickly prayed to God for strength and to bless this man for all he had been through. He introduced me to his mom, Gale, and then to Meg’s mom, Pam. I had also learned a few days after Meg’s tragedy – that Pam had student taught under my mom some years ago. When I shared with Pam the connection – she threw her arms around me and I felt an immediate bond. Some people just know how to give a hug and she is one of them. We took a picture together and then it was time for Pam to line up for the 10k which she was running. Since that time, my mom has been diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer and is currently fighting to beat this battle. When I read the posts everyday from this group – I see that we are all on a journey…a journey that includes running, determination, perseverance, passion. I love the encouragement that I receive just from reading them and all the ways that we inspire and encourage each other to keep the faith; not just in running journeys but in all avenues of life. I use some of the inspirational quotes not just in running but in everyday situations. I see the spirit of Meg everyday as folks are already planning the travel for the 2015 races! Meg’s legacy will live on in my heart – and hopefully in my feet – as we see how strong these bonds can stretch and be strengthened. Lifetime friendships are being made, relationships are growing, and the power and presence of giving and of God are being sown. I am recognizing in my own life that each day is a gift – and to treat each one with gratitude and thanksgiving . One day, we will all be reunited with Meg and one day we will all run our own marathon together. We will all run as one and we will all run Meg strong! 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. Guest post from Brooke Roney: Can I put into words how Meg's tragic death has affected me and so many others around the world? If I could describe to you the goosebumps on my skin and the tears I have in my eyes right now, maybe. If I could describe the thoughts I have about Meg, Scott, her parents, and children with every step I take on my runs, maybe. If I could describe to you what hope, faith, and love feel like, maybe. The truth is that for me, the group of supporters in Meg's Miles is more of a "feeling" as opposed to a physical "group" of people. Meg's spirit is very much alive in all of us who share our stories with each other in that group; for those of us who post our triumphs, our struggles, our thoughts, our support and inspiration every day, or even for those of us who go to simply read. She is with us. Her smile. Her grace. Her passion. This coming from a woman who was only Meg's acquaintance. Born of Meg's passing is an incredible family of strangers. A place where many of us feel safe, supported, and loved. A place where true friendships have been formed. Lifelong friendships. Between people who never would have known each other if it weren't for Meg. Some of us runners, some of us walkers. Some of us mothers, some of us fathers. Whoever we are, we are family now. I pledge to continue honoring Meg's life in every way that I can. By sharing a smile with a stranger, by finding the good in people, by treating my body as a gift and fueling it properly, by teaching my daughter compassion and empathy, and by serving God in the best way I know how. We may never get the answers we seek, but we certainly have each other to lean on during the journey. 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. Guest post from Leslie Shields: I was still living in Germany at the time when I heard of Meg's passing through a Virginia friend of mine. I remember instantly hugging my babies and promising myself to try and not take life for granted for one single moment. For the first run event that was created and thousands united from all around the world to run in her honor, I had one of those bibs printed, pinned it to my shirt and ran the Frankfurt trails for her. And every time thereafter! I knew this year I had to do something amazing for her. Just something I wanted to do...no pressure from anyone. But I found myself praying for her family on my runs and enjoyed envisioning my heavenly friend running with me and helping me push through the sometimes long and difficult training and tough moments in my life. She helped strengthen my relationship with my Heavenly Father. With my children. With my relationships and friendships. With my attitude. With my willingness to help others more often. I felt I had a reason to run more....for someone else! For this sweet person I had never met before but felt a connection with through my love for family and friends, my faith, my love for God, my love for running - even down to having the same favorite color. So back to doing something big to honor Meg this year. We were due to move back to the States and I had already ran a few half marathons but really had no desire to ever run a full. But...I also knew I could FOR HER! So I bravely clicked the "sign up" button, trained all summer and ran my first marathon in Richmond. It was without a doubt one of the hardest things I've ever done but very much worth it and more rewarding than I ever imagined it being. A few days after the race, I finally drove to her memorial site and hung my shoes with many others. These were the shoes that I wore in Germany when I had started running for Meg in January. So they were a special pair. :) I have been blessed to be a part of the Meg's Miles group since it began and I'm forever grateful for the love and friendships that have been created because of this one amazing person: Meg!! I will continue to run for her, for her family and for Him! For she has forever changed my life for the better! Guest post from Stacy Yerger: I never knew Meg, but when her story crossed my screen it resonated just on the fact that I have three kids and I couldn't imagine the sorrow of not being there with them. All the way through college I was an athlete but once I became a mom it was more difficult for me to keep things up. I would work out sporadically and then stop. My husband is active duty Navy and just after Meg's death we were waiting for our new set of orders which we thought would send him back to the sands overseas. In a completely odd twist he got sent to a ship, we had to move and a nightmare began. We moved back into a house we had rented out only to find it had been destroyed by the tenants, the movers lost 1/3 of all our belongings (still no sign of them) and the middle school where my boys were attending turned out to be a horrible place. And my husband wasn't here to help, it was just me. Me. And that was a very lonely, scary place to be. My stress levels were through the roof, I would lay down and just lay there because it was all so big. So I decided to run. For 10 minutes of peace, of not having to deal with movers, or carpet guys, or tenants or my kids or my loneliness. And I just kept doing it. Things are getting better slowly, my husband is having some health issues that have sidelined him and the doctors cannot figure out what is wrong. And he is there and we are here and that's hard. I'm homeschooling my kids, which is great and frustrating all bundled up into one big ball, but hopefully it will just be for this year. My 14 year old and I are looking for a half to compete in this spring. The kids and I are healthy and we are getting to do some very cool things that wouldn't be possible in regular school, plus I'm getting to really know who they are. So although we had to walk through the fire, the gift we are rewarded with is so much more. And so I run. 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. |