Journal Entry: After the Run for New Life Family Fun Run

The Fun Run is finally over, and now that the excitement has settled, I can feel the soreness creeping into my body, especially my knees. I knew I had a knee issue coming in, so I ran a little and walked more. But even with the discomfort, I can’t help but smile at how the morning unfolded.

First of all, I am deeply thankful for Bern. He can run so much farther and faster, but today, he chose to stay with me, matching my pace, encouraging me, and literally running beside me all the way to complete the 1 km. That, in itself, felt like such a gift. The journey wasn’t “easy,” but somehow it became light because I wasn’t doing it alone.

What surprised me was how much joy there was in the little things. We took so many photos with fellow parents, students, and alumni, pausing here and there just to capture the moment. We stopped to chat with familiar faces, laugh with fellow runners, and greet every person who crossed our path. These small interactions, quick conversations, smiles, waves felt like tiny bursts of encouragement that made the route feel shorter. They reminded me how powerful presence is. Sometimes you don’t need someone to carry you; you just need people around you who bring warmth.

Looking back, I think I can do 2 km next year. Not because I’m physically stronger but because I’m emotionally full. Today reminded me that the race doesn’t have to be rushed. It can be walked, captured in photos, shared in laughter, and enjoyed one step at a time.

Running today also brought back memories of another race—one I didn’t sign up for but had to run anyway: my cancer journey in 2021. That was a marathon of pain, fear, and deep exhaustion. There were days I could barely move, times when treatments left me drained, and nights filled with quiet tears and whispered prayers. But even in that long valley, God’s grace consistently met me. Every small run I managed back then, no matter how short, became a reminder that His healing was at work.

And just like today, I didn’t run that race alone. My family, my friends, and my New Life community stood with me, prayed with me, and carried me in ways I will never forget. God revived me, restored me, and allowed me to experience new life—step by step, breath by breath.

Today’s Fun Run felt like a celebration of that miracle. A reminder that new life is not just a theme for an event. It is a testimony of God’s faithfulness in my own story.

As I sit here now, soreness and all, my heart is full. I am grateful for the organizers, our Grade 11 students, Mr. Ken Chua, the volunteers, and every family who showed up with joy and energy. But more than that, I am grateful for the gentle lessons God wove into my morning:

We truly are stronger together.

Small steps still move us forward.

And joy—real joy—is found in the journey itself.

Today, I didn’t just run. I remembered. I celebrated. I lived.

And yes! I think I’ll run again next year. Maybe even 2 km. With God’s grace, why not?