I logged 6 solo miles on Saturday, but instead of spending them celebrating my development as a runner, I dragged along with a heavy heart as I considered what the rest of my day would hold: playing flute for my friend's funeral, driving 5 hours to visit relatives, corralling kids who are out of their routine and comfort zone, plastering a semi-contented expression on my face when all I'd really want to do is cry. The run itself was much like the rest of the day. Where I expected to feel gratitude, I found exhaustion. When I should have enjoyed the fresh morning air, I wallowed over GI discomfort. What I planned as a blissful hour of solitude was 60 minutes of internal crabbing.
It wasn't the day I planned or expected, but I was still lucky for the opportunity to run, to spend time with family and friends, and to live life. |
I returned home feeling defeated and overwhelmed. Remember how I was waiting for the other shoe to drop? I think it just did. In some ways, I'm glad I had that crappy run. I knew it was coming, and now I can look over my shoulder, say that it happened, and move on with life. At the end of the day, I was 6 miles stronger. In fact, after three years of running, I am hundreds of miles stronger - both mentally and physically. I am grateful for all my runs, the good and the bad, for they have made me into a strong, confident, and balanced mother runner. Here's to many, many more runiversaries!