Today I Ran

Be Sure to Pin This Idea!

If you’ve been a reader for more than a couple months, you know that running is a huge part of my life. It’s how I cope with stress, it’s how I process life, it’s the time when there’s only me and the  pavement, and together we think through everything and solve life’s problems.

Last March I ran my first marathon, and it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life! There is no feeling like that of crossing the finish line. Your finish line represents a lot more than 26.2, it represents months of sacrifice and millions of miles that brought you to that moment.

For most runners the ultimate goal is qualifying for Boston, one fast, tough race that symbolizes achievement and speed. It takes most runners many marathons to qualify, and it’s a dream come true to be able to run one. Yesterday as I watched half The Boston Marathon’s runners have their dream striped from them before they could finish, I just sat in shock. I thought of the physical and emotional pain caused to all who were in attendance. I’m a late bloomer, a slow to process emotions kind of girl- after all, morning runs are saved for that time. This morning I woke up completely devastated and kept thinking what I could do about the tragedy. I decided that the best thing I could do would be to run.

I laced up this morning and decided it was fitting to wear my marathon paraphernalia with pride.

I’m glad I did, almost every car that passed me and every kid walking to school stopped and gave me a stare. I hope I can remind them that my favorite quote circulating the Internet is 100% true:

 

“If you’re trying to defeat the human spirit, marathoners are the wrong group to target” – Mighty Brighties on FB
 

 

There was only one other runner out today, usually there are more. I hope tomorrow I see even more, because I think the best way to honor the victims is to keep moving forward with life and to keep running for those who won’t be able to for a while.
And so I ran 3 miles this morning, one for each of the victims who lost their lives. It was a small run for me, but very significant   I held back tears as I passed a bus stop of elementary children at mile 2, I couldn’t help but think of the poor 8-year-old who lost his life.
And today I am sober, dealing with grief. Feeling like one of the communities I’m a part of suffered a direct attack. But if ever there was a community to rebound- it’s the running community!
So I will continue to lace up, I will continue to run for those who can’t. I will continue to wear my favorite necklace that my father so generously gifted me with pride.
Because I am a marathoner, and perseverance and honor are something we know a lot about!

Get 365 Date Ideas!

We want to help you have the best date nights ever! Grab this FREE printable with 365 date ideas, a date for every day of the year so you never run out of ideas!

We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time. Powered by ConvertKit

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

4 Comments

  1. maryjozefiak says:

    What a wonderful post. I'm not a runner myself, but I still think I should get out there and run for all the tragedy that happened in Boston. I can't imagine what it could have possibly felt like for the runners there. Thanks for sharing 🙂

    — Mary

  2. Chrissy Delacy says:

    YOu give me goosebumps 🙂 I cant wait for the day I can say I am a marathoner with you 🙂

  3. Ashley Frederickson says:

    What a great post! I am a new reader to your blog but you truly inspire me and motivate me. I love that quote, I thought about that as I was watching the news. Runners are upbeat, positive and determined to conquer struggles that get in their way. What a great way to do your part, by running! Thank you for standing with courage! You inspire me.

    Power of one! –

  4. Talisha Reupena says:

    Thank you for sharing this! I agree, we must run and continue on for those who no longer can. So heart warming. I really appreciate this post!