The day is over, but its meaning is not. This section helps you rest, say thank you and carry the spirit of the challenge forward.
Rest
Expect aching arms, sore legs and plenty of mud to wash out. Drink well, eat properly and sleep. Give yourselves a gentle few days.
It is also normal to feel quiet, emotional or proud. Check in with each team in the days that follow, and listen kindly to whatever they share.
Thanks
Many people made the day possible. Thank them soon, and in person where you can. Give donors the final total as well.
These are the people to remember.
- Every donor and sponsor
- The venue and its marshals
- The driver and the first aider
- Relatives who looked after the children
- The spectators who cheered
- The charity and the community
Telling the story
Share what happened, and share it honestly. Describe the day as it was: a gesture of solidarity, not a re-creation of flight.
Ask each family what they are happy to share. Use photos only with their consent. Let the families tell the story in their own words.
Keeping the lessons alive
The families may want to carry something of the day into everyday life. Here are some ideas.
- Talk with your children about what it means to be displaced
- Notice who in your own community carries a heavy burden, and offer help
- Learn more about the lives of refugees and their stories
- Share what you learned with your mosque, school or workplace
Staying connected to the cause
The charity can keep the families in touch with the people their money helped. It might send updates, invite them to volunteer, or ask them to speak at a community event.
Some families will want to give regularly. Others will want to take part again, or to invite new teams. All of this is welcome, and none of it is expected.
May God ease the burden of everyone who carries too much, and may we never grow used to it.