Sometimes, I decide to write simple stories—so simple that they might feel boring and cliché. Here’s one I wrote recently on consistency. But I can’t resist the urge to express what I feel so strongly about.
When I started improving as a runner several years ago, I didn’t think much about the theme I’m about to discuss. I was counting my miles and focusing on my paces. I enjoyed losing weight and was proud of my race results. I was getting sophisticated with some of my workouts, like intervals, and there was pleasure in that—knowing that not only was I becoming a good runner, but I was also deepening my expertise.
I still care a lot about my mileage and performance. I want to continue improving as a runner. However, I’ve noticed that as I progress in my journey, I often experience a much stronger feeling, and it has nothing to do with my running shape or performance.
It’s not some general feel-good sensation or a self-improvement recommendation.
I’d be doing my run—maybe a mellow, easy run, or maybe climbing a tough hill during my long run—and the feeling would wash over me like a wave. It’s very identifiable, precise, and clear.
I’m running! I’m able to do this every day—step out and run. I’m healthy. This is such a grand privilege. I’m so thankful for this.
This sentiment isn’t inspired by nice weather or picturesque views. It just is—the awareness of moving, my heart beating, my lungs working, and how thousands of mechanisms in my body are working in sync, all because this precious opportunity is available to me—to go for my daily run.
I don’t take it for granted. I’m profoundly grateful and humbled by this privilege.
This summer, I’m helping a local high school with their running camp. I know the coach because my son went to this school and was eager to try something new in the realm of running. Yesterday was the first day of the camp. We did a long run, and I got to run with the faster varsity boys. I loved the run and how I was pushed a little but still managed to keep up. After running, we sat down and listened to the coach talk about running, nutrition, and next week’s schedule.
As I looked at all the kids, I felt that overwhelming sense of gratitude I described earlier. I really wanted to share it with them. Guys, we are so incredibly lucky. You are. I am. Let’s be thankful. I didn’t say it because it wasn’t the right occasion (and they probably would’ve thought I was a little weird!), but maybe I will one day.
I’m forever grateful for the opportunity to run.
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Being grateful is a sometimes a hard thing for younger athletes to learn, but it's important. I find it comes with age. ;)