I haven't run a race since 2007. That was the year I did two halfs and both are stories in and of themselves that aren't all pretty. I wasn't too motivated to do more after those experiences for quite awhile.
But since then I have discovered trails, running for beauty, running buddies and running for the sake of pursuing enjoyment and not pushing-myself goals.
They say for every race you should have three goals, though. One for if it turns out to be a great day. One for if it's a good day and one for if the day bombs big-time. (For those days most runners pick: just finish the race.)
I'm running a race this Saturday. It's a beautiful course that for a part of it overlooks the San Juan Islands and the bay. It's a race I've watched and read about for years always feeling like there is no way I could ever run it. But a sweet running friend signed me up as a gift last week and I was giddy about it.
I am also nervous. I have all the cliche' fears of finishing last, bonking, going out too fast... and so I've been playing with numbers and goals and finish times and plans in my head and I have been totally too scared to just make enjoying the experience my entire goal.
Until I watched this (below.) And she reminded me why I run again. Yes... I have some competitiveness in me. But I am learning more and more about the freedom to run just for joy. And how that aligns everything in the right place anyways.
This is beautiful and inspiring to watch and if you think of it, hold me to my commitment for Saturday to just enjoy!
8 comments:
What an amazing, inspiring video. Can I just say that I love that she runs in a skirt?! I'll be praying for you tomorrow - praying that it's more than you could have asked or imagined - not your time, but your experience of it.
That comment means so much to me. Thank you so much.
I used to enjoy trailing running back in the day. There are some beautiful trails right near my house. I loved it. It was invigorating, it was amazing. I miss it. So when you go out tomorrow enjoy yourself for me! Kristina Buckley's daughter in law runs long races...she is a vision of enjoying running. Maybe you guys could connect someday. xo
Will be thinking of you Misha! May the day be a wonderful surprise to you! Much love.
Misha - I'd love to be your FB friend! You can find me by searching for Shannon Horn Truss. I've been praying for you today about the race and I just have the best feeling about it - it's like sun shining on my face when I envision you there running. I think it's going to be a wonderful experience! Continuing to pray...
This made me cry - and it speaks to me on a whole different level, as well. When she spoke about everyone standing at the start - everyone on the same level, everyone raw - it makes me think that is a great picture of the church. Thanks for sharing!
Misha, was this the Chuckanut Foot Race at Larrabee? We were there two years ago staying at the park and watching friends race. They were there again this year. If that is the race you ran... what a GORGEOUS area! We spent the afternoon on the beach there. I would love to visit again!! I hope your race went well!
Heidi - if you ever come back that's not too far from our home! Please come see us. We could get the Luke's together finally! : )
Thank you all for your responses - I loved every one. I thought a lot about them when I ran!
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