Continuing the Journey with Jack and Eugene’s World Tour
Finished the second leg of the journey through Jack and Eugene’s World Tour, a virtual race series on the ZRX app. For those that are unaware, the app has been around since 2012; kickstarted as a fun way to instill motivation for running in a zombie apocalypse. It has morphed into a world-renowned fitness app that encompasses not only zombies, but Marvel superheroes and other stories to help motivate anyone into a fitness lifestyle. They incorporate virtual races twice a year with leaderboards to encapsulate a sense of community. Jack and Eugene’s World Tour came out in 2021 in three parts, first one in their series of virtual races. I finally signed up this year to experience their story.
This part of their tour was inspired by the fellowship tales of the Lords of the Rings, having us run deep into a zombie-infested labyrinth known as Heart’s Labyrinth, led by Chicory. Based on its dialect, it is a representation of a Gollum-like creature. They allude to not only zombies but a beast that hunts them through the forest and labyrinth. Through an audio journey with twists, mystery, and ominous sounds, we are treated to an excellent virtual adventure, no matter where we are running or walking in the real world.
I imagine the monstrous beast that preys upon all the characters (including our own, virtually) as a manifestation of the dark cloud that preyed upon my own mind for a long time. Trying desperately to evade, allude, and numb the inner darkness that was clouding my judgement with anxiety and depression was, at times, too much to bear. But Michael stood by me, through it all. He instilled a bravery and courageous that I can keep going, one day at a time. And with that strength, I walked into the hospital, changed my daily habits, and brought forth a creative energy that had been lost for so long. The creative pride that was chiseled from my soul, piece by piece, from bullies and, at times, my own inner critic, is starting to flourish once more.
During one of the pinnacle moments, when Jack and Eugene were cornered by the beast, something happens unexpectedly that saves them and inspires hope for the resiliency of their relationship against all odds. Jack Holden and Eugene Woods, written by Matt Weiteska, say, “As the zombies closed on them in the heart of the great labyrinth when [they] thought all hope lost, a clarity had found Eugene. The fear which had been holding him back was gone. Fear of change, fear of the unknown, fear of loss. The world was changing; the future was unknown. But one thing was certain. The shadow that had haunted them for so long; the nightmare hunter of forest and stone shattered around them as they kissed. And in the cascade of darkness, they fell through the door together into the light and the wind and their future.”
Just like Jack and Eugene, Michael and our relationship will continue to become stronger, day by day. Whether through the words of Brandon Sanderson, the challenges in the NY Times crossword puzzles, the stamina to endure hikes in the Adirondacks, or the changing political landscape, we will become a beacon of hope in a world seemingly filled with darkness. Our love for each other and those around us will ripple through society, instilling a heart that will always endure.
One of Jack’s funny surprises while telling their story was awesome, especially for those who are fans of Jim Henson. Humor between Jack and Eugene is what makes listening to their banter incredibly enjoyable. And it is that laughter and camaraderie that I intend to cherish more in my life after carrying the burden of internal depression and heightened anxiety. All it takes is changing our habits and thoughts, day by day.
I am intrigued how Jack and Eugene’s World Tour will end their journey as Michael and our small wedding ceremony comes even closer. But whether it is a beginning or an ending, we all must make the most of our short time here. Continue to love, continue to inspire, and continue to hope for a good future.
I would like to end this essay with a wonderful quote, written by Matt Weiteska through the voice of Jack Holden played by Rhys Jennings. “The world has changed. I feel it in the air; I hear it in the trees. Much that once was is gone and those that live carry the burden of remembering it. Such a burden is a heavy thing for most folk to bare; but even in the darkest of times, hope and strength can still be found in the bonds between those that endure.” - Jack Holden, written by Matt Weiteska.
