Running is Democratic
Running is an activity that any individual can participate in. It does not discriminate based on sex, color, religion, or social status. Running can be exercised any time of day, during any season, and in any region of the country you find yourself in. Running is an expression of freedom. A freedom that many women in other parts of the world are not granted. Each time I lace up my shoes and run, I give thanks for the right to exercise my running right and the freedom to do so without being persecuted because of my gender.
Metaphor for Life
When I've found myself in times of difficulty, I've used the symbolism of crossing the finish line at my races to keep me going. Each aching mile, or hill, or arduous trail is conquered and surpassed in the belief that it is temporary, and that there is a finish line to traverse. It is a reminder to never quit no matter how tough it gets.
Healthy dose of Endorphins
"Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy." Whether studies prove or not if Runner's High is caused by endorphins, running triggers my psyche in a positive way and puts me in a pleasant and optimistic mood. It gives me energy to tackle a stressful project, patience to deal with super-slow-nine-year-olds-who-move-with-no-sense-of urgency-or-care-for-missing-the-bus-in the morning, and offers a natural and healthy way to combat the dark and gray fall & winter days of the Pacific Northwest. A positive attitude and disposition makes it easier to be grateful for all I have - especially my health.
Earned Success
Running reminds me that the outcome of my success is dependent upon on how much effort I've put into my training. The reward of finishing a race is the crowning moment of all the training miles earned through mental and physical sacrifice. Each time I cross the finish line, I look back on the journey I endured to get there, and it makes all the hard work that much sweeter.
Genes In Jeans
Running has given me the ability to have a whole new sense of appreciation for my body. I look in the mirror and like what I see, but not because of superficial reasons, but because I've come to understand the mechanics of my body and appreciate how much it can do. It's made me conscious of how posture (guilty of slouching) and proper running form go hand in hand to make you a better runner, and how my legs can endure 26.2 miles of straight running. Running gives me self-confidence, and self-confidence keeps the cycle of running alive.
What are you thankful for?
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