Life's funny
Sometimes funny 'ha-ha', sometimes funny 'hmmm.'
Running
Shoe Henge is an ancient and mysterious site found in a remote area of the Smith estate. It was first thought to be a sacrificial altar, or some kind of kinesthetic art. However, recently a group of runners has hypothesized that it is a type of sundial, used by primitive man to time his training runs.
Shoshone River Canyon, Wyoming. A great place to run.
Friends,
When we discover our passion, it's up to us to nurture it and center it in our lives. This is why I make room in my over-committed world for writing and running.
I have been a long distance runner since 1981. In that time I've come to appreciate the experience of running as more than exercise or another place to compete. It has become a space where I can think, compose, pray, and form the philosophy that will steer the rest of my day.
Over time I became involved in running marathons, and while some evidence might indicate I am not well suited for this distance, in my heart I know that the clock and the stop watch are the last place I should look for validation of my passion. Given my mixed performances, some might suggest that God has been trying to tell me I should aim for shorter distances, but ironically the marathon is when I feel closest to Him.
I have run marathons all over the country; Columbus, Philadelphia, Detroit, Chicago, South Bend, Grand Rapids, and my favorite three; The New York Marathon, The Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C. and The Boston Marathon.
Anyone who has run more than a few miles with a friend knows what bonds form there. Running strips away pretense, sharpens candor and honesty. The distractions and trappings of the rest of the day are set aside, and runners are able to more directly talk about whatever's on their mind, in between huffing and puffing.
In general, runners are positive people. They almost have to be, since you cannot approach great physical challenge without some hope of a positive outcome. So running is a bonus because the people you meet propel you into a better place.
There are likely more inspiring passions than running down the road, sometimes for no particular reason, sometimes in no particular direction. But connected to this is a myriad of expiences, each supporting the best things that life has to offer. In a quarter century of running, it is still one of the most simple and satisfying parts of my life.
Running is not simply exercise or merely competition. It is the manifestation of a gift. Like most gifts in my life, I didn't earn it, I don't deserve it, and the best thing I know to do is to share it.
Hope to see you on the road,
David
Read some Monday Moanin' essays on running here
Running in Olympia, Greece, the site of the original Olympics.
For more pictures of our trip to Greece, click here.
My Boston Support Team
