Thursday, December 13, 2007

It occured to me yesterday as I was running...I need to enjoy the ride a little more. I often write my posts about challenging oneself, breaking through our limits, pushing yourself and not settling for anything less than your gut-check best. While I subscribe to the notion that this wonderful life has been given to us freely (regardless of how much we do not deserve it)and this gift's worth is ultimately cultivated in what we do with what we have been given...and while I believe that we are to take what we are given and mold it, build it, use it, strengthen it, and wear it emboldened like a brand, I also believe that we were given this life to enjoy and appreciate. I think in the midst of my running, I forgot that.

I was running yesterday (since it was so nice outside), and a wonderful feeling of quiet satisfaction and contentment came upon me. I spent the last 5 miles (of my 6 mile run) grinning ear-to-ear and relaxed, appreciating the things and the people in my life. I thanked God for the ability to run, to have the clothes on my back that kept me warm, the high-quality running shoes I wear (that look really cool too), to have the time in my schedule to take an hour off to go run. I thanked God for the people who support me and motivate me. I just kinda relaxed and enjoyed my run. Usually, my runs are about focus, technique, breathing, and the goals I am trying to attain...it's always about overcoming, pushing........

I liked yesterday's run much more...maybe I need to carry that over into my life outside of running. It's time to relax and enjoy. I'll keep running, although I think I'll run because I can.

Thanks for reading!

SEE YA ON THE HILL!
Michael