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On April 27, the streets of London hosted one of the world’s largest marathon events, with more than 57,000 participants from across the globe. Despite the sheer scale of the event and the impressive number of runners, what truly captured attention was not speed or victory – but the inspiring presence of the elderly and people of determination, who defied physical challenges and age to walk, run or even crawl toward a noble goal.
Their participation was not a display of physical strength, but a genuine declaration of willpower. Men and women – some in wheelchairs, others with prosthetic limbs, and many leaning on crutches – covered long distances with a smile, their eyes fixed only on the finish line as a symbol of self-fulfilment and triumph over adversity.
Among the most touching scenes shared on social media: An elderly man, aged over 80, jogging gently; a blind woman guided by a companion; a child with cerebral palsy being pushed in his wheelchair, his smile unshaken. Each of them was a lesson in patience, a symbol of strength and a true embodiment of what a marathon really means – not just a physical race, but a spiritual journey.
The participation of the elderly and people with disabilities in such an event does not stem from a desire for attention or courtesy, but from a deep belief that while the body may be limited, the spirit remains undefeated. They wanted to send a message to anyone who thinks life ends at the threshold of pain or old age – as long as the soul is alive, life continues.
This year’s London Marathon was more than just a sporting event. It was a message to the world that when a person possesses true willpower, nothing can stand in their way. True strength is not measured by muscle, but by an unbreakable resolve.
We ought to learn from these individuals – to pursue our goals sincerely and remember that challenges are not roadblocks, but milestones that strengthen our self-belief and push us closer to the summit, no matter how rugged the path.
The lesson? Many of us, though in good health and free of illness or disability, still hesitate – often refuse – to take part in physical or sporting activities, using age as an excuse. Some haven’t even reached 50 and yet believe they are too old to participate. We, as a society, have become passive and overly reliant, constantly inventing weak excuses to justify our inaction.
As I mentioned earlier, if people over 70 – and those with physical challenges – can run the race, then what excuse do we have?
This is a message I direct first to myself, and then to everyone: We must commit to physical activity and not allow any excuse to stop us. We should carve out time – rather than wait for it – to engage in exercise that improves our health and protects us from chronic diseases.
I truly hope this message reaches those who need to hear it.
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