Why I Run

Over the course of the last month, I have read several blogs that have talked about reasons for running and they got me thinking.  Why do I run?  Do I have a choice?  Sure I have a choice, but I wouldn't be the person that I am today if I didn't run.  God put running in my life for a reason, and I think that reason was to make me a better person.  Running gives me time to think, provides me with a sense of accomplishment, helps me stay healthy, inspires me, pushes me both physically and mentally, hurts, leaves me filled with endorphins, allows me to relax and destress, makes me a better husband, strengthens my faith, and makes me happy.  The more I think about running, the less I think it is a choice for me.  It is a part of who I am.  There are times that I wonder why I put myself through the long runs, cold weather, and hill repeats, especially when my IT Band flares up and leaves me riding the stationary bike for weeks on end, but then I remember how lucky I am to be able to run.  Thanks to the Lord, I have been blessed with good health and good fortune, and I strive to avoid taking even the smallest things for granted.  I encourage everyone to pursue their passion.  Enjoy the journey and check out the blogs listed below that inspired me to write this post!  Also, why do you run?

• http://www.fulllifeservices.com/healhy-lifestyle-and-diet-blogs/bid/32336/The-Friday-Fight-Get-Inspired-to-Exercise?source=Blog_Email_[The+Friday+Fight%3a+Ge]
• http://thatgirlisarunningfool.blogspot.com/2010/04/why-do-you-run.html
• http://barbieruns.blogspot.com/2010/04/why-do-i-run.html
• http://www.boston.com/newsprojects/whyirun/#/story-821

Running Makes Me a Better Husband!!

Have You Ever Had a Flat Tire?

Just a week ago, I was in the midst of a relaxing, 10 mile, late afternoon ride when much to my chagrin, the back tire on my bike went flat.  Fortunately, I was able to borrow a bystander's cell phone and call Katie for a ride back home, but this got me thinking about life's "flat tires."  Do you know anyone that is going through tough times or may have recieved bad news within the last few weeks?  Maybe they don't know who to call for help or support.  I urge you to reach out to them and lend a helping hand, because there are sure to be times when you will hope that someone returns the favor.  Life is constantly leaving us standing on the side of the road with a "flat tire."  Fortunately, "flat tires" can be repaired with a little help from friends, family, and the occasional caring stranger.  Lend a helping hand and enjoy the journey!  

How Far Can You Go?

Quoting T.S. Eliot, "Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go." We, myself included, tend to sell ourselves short, because we fear failure. We fear going too far, whether it is during a run, a bike ride, or in life. It is easier to stay within our comfort zones. Unfortunately, we will never know how far we can go, until we go there. Going forward, I am going to make a more conscious effort to find out how far I can go, and I urge you to do the same. Don't settle for mediocrity. Happy Easter and enjoy the journey!

Notice:  This post is not intended to encourage you to proceed through life with wreckless abandon or push your body beyond its physical capacity.  It is intended to cause you to think.  Can you go farther?  Can you do more?