Dear Fellow Ravens,
This year the Executive Rambling has focused on issues pertinent to the Student Government.
We have tried to keep you informed on what we are doing and encouraged your involvement.
We have worked hard to be your voice and to deliver on issues important to you.
This time, I have decided to change gears a bit.
On December 23rd, 2009 I was sitting at home enjoying my Christmas break when all of a sudden a wave of motivation hit me in the face.
I decided to go the gym to work out and go for a run.
That night I made a commitment to run every other day in attempt to get back in shape.
Much to my surprise, I kept to that commitment.
With my newfound motivation and discipline I decided to sign myself up for a half marathon.
I knew it was going to be tough but I gave little thought to the amount of work I would have to do the following months.
Now two months later, I fully appreciate the amount of work needed to be done.
To be blunt, I have hit a wall in my training.
I find it difficult to balance my running schedule with school, SGA, social and rugby schedules.
For the first time, thoughts of doubt started to creep into my mind.
So I am left with two choices.
I could quit. I could complain that my life is just too busy and hectic.
I could easily blame my inconsistent workout schedule on the snowy and cold weather.
But at the end of the day, I would know I quit when I could have kept going, and this was unacceptable.
I am left with one choice; I must persevere.
On a more personal note, this semester has been difficult for me.
In many ways I feel that my half marathon training is my life in a nut shell.
Often times we are tempted to let the hard times get the best of us.
But when facing difficult times, what other choice do we have than to persevere.
Perseverance can help us in all facets in our life.
Whether you are struggling in your school work or with your relationships or feeling sluggish under an oppressive workload, perseverance always presents hope of a better tomorrow.
If you are struggling with something right now, remember no matter what, the future is filled with hope.
Tomorrow is always an opportunity for something better.
So despite my setbacks and all the snow on the ground, I will be continue my half marathon training.
I am focused on the feeling of accomplishment that will come over me when I finish the race.
The hard work I put in now will make race day so much better.
With the hope of a better tomorrow, I hope you join me in persevering through the tough times.
By doing so, our celebration in joyous moments is much more meaningful.
Patrick Helling is Executive President of the Student Government Association, and is majoring in political science. He can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
