The first was the actual basis for this story before it took several dramatic turns. When we moved from St. Louis to Phoenix, we were pleased to meet some new friends at church who were also originally from St. Louis. In fact, our children attended the same Lutheran High School, but their three children were older than ours so our paths never crossed. However, I knew their son Jack's name because he was emblazoned on the state cross country championship banners that hung in the gym.
As we got to know our new friends, I asked about Jack's running prowess. His dad explained that in early high school, he observed his son sitting around way too much. Because dad was already an avid runner, he decided Jack should get off the couch and join him. Fast forward to Jack developing his talent and being a leader on his high school track and cross country teams, then earning an NCAA Division I scholarship to the University of Missouri. Now married with three children, Jack is still an avid runner.
