what's with winning....

Thursday: As the day progressed, the web was flooded with views on a speech rendered by a woman minister in the Indian cabinet. Just to highlight, am far away from Indian politics and have never had any interest/passion on that subject. But the reactions to this speech got me intrigued. Why was everyone reacting so much? Social media platforms of renowned journalists, media houses, friends- everyone was talking about it.

Smriti Irani- Minister of HRD (India)

The curious cat in me got me hooked on too- and what a speech! After ages, I saw an Indian politician speak with so much compassion, emotions and frustration. The recent incidents at several educational institutions has had it's impact on the lady. Did she mean it all? Was it all from the heart? Not something I can answer. But for me (personally), it was after years that I heard an entire political speech and have been following the reactions online.

Will her speech convert into action, will we see quick results? Or is this all one big PR game- no one can tell.
 
Friday: I recently signed up for my 1st trail run. Well for many it's no great shakes but for me it's one-step ahead of what I have done so far. It's a challenge I have thrown at myself- the new route, the uneven terrain, and being part of something new. I chanced upon The Green Race Ultra Challenge, a few days back and promptly signed up for it. 

I had a lot of thoughts in my mind- running a 10km after long (do I really need to), will I be able to train myself or am I just going to go with the flow? As expected I have been 'going with the flow'. I think what excited me the most was the route. I have been craving to run on the Bukit Timah nature belt and this race offered that route.

The race bib

The race day is tomorrow and strangely I don't feel nervous. Usually my previous evening to any race is a bit mellow. I try to wind down and take things easy. Ironically, tonight I am going to watch a late night movie. I also haven't been training to my best. Except for my usual running routine, I haven't made any extra efforts.

My talk with my 3-year old this morning, may just make the race a wee bit easier. I mentioned to her that I would be away at my race when she wakes up tomorrow morning. To which she quipped, "Will you be winning a gold or silver tomorrow?" My answer to her was, "If I finish the race I am a winner- don't need to get a gold or silver." 

She jokingly added, "Is that all it takes to win and so getting the gold and silver is not so important right." Hopefully she learnt a life-lesson this morning....