Exceptional post my friend. You have managed to transport me to your marathon that, by the way, I am sure it has been epic.
When we first talked about your intention to run a Marathon I thought you were thinking to run a more convenient one, Valencia if I remember well.
The time is not important, the important thing is that you made it, conserving your physical integrity.
Now you know what a Marathon is. The most challenging race.
I am sure that this experience, and not only the race but the full preparation, made you so well to yourself.
You are a winner my friend, not many people can say they are marathoners.
Keep on running.