what started this - the transformation

My good friend Annie and I decided to do a triathlon one day.  Well actually I wanted to do a duathlon (bike and run only) because I was determined not to swim. Annie agreed. So her job was to find a race for us.  Well she found a race and before I knew it we were signed up for a triathlon.  The whole thing.. swim, bike and run.  We started training by ourselves and quickly learned we were headed for disaster.  That is when I got in contact with my old friend Mark Dirga.  He is a certified triathlon coach and was in the beginning stages of setting a tri camp for beginners.  Annie and I were his first clients.  We made his life hell I am sure, but he endured.  Thank God he did. I gave him the most trouble since I refused to put my face in the water.  One day we were in the River and it smelled so bad I just couldn't do it.  I thought to myself this is it I am going to quit.  I looked up at Mark and I could see so much disappointment in his eyes and I knew I was letting him down.  And I just couldn't do that. And then I thought back to the hours he had invested in me. He had no vested interest in me other than just to help someone get into the sport he loved so much... but for some reason he thought I was worth his time.  And I realized if I was worth his time then he must see something in me that could be successful.  I am so glad he never gave up on me.  Annie and I did finish that first triathlon and we won 5th place over all and first in age group trophies. Under Coach Dirga's coaching and guidance I went on to compete in several sprint triathlons and then several Olympic distance triathlons.   I don't know if Mark realizes it or not but because he believed in me that is what made me believe in myself.  I would not be where I am today in this sport if it were not for him.  That is why I will always regard him as a friend.  The influence people have on other people can be profound.  You never know how what you say to someone or how you act towards someone can either make or break them.  People's lives can be so fragile and any act of kindness or encouragement can make a huge difference.  I am so thankful for the people in my life who have made such a positive influence and helped steer the course in my life.  I hope I can be that kind of person in others lives also.