Keep Going Strong

As some of you know back in Jan. (of this year)I decided I was going to start running. Of course, this came about after a cousin asked me to run in some races (5K, 10K, 10miler and the mini) around town.

After my initial shock of saying yes, I realized this was going to be a challenge, but I was going to do it. However, I just knew I would hate it. I was wrong.

As a child, I remember enjoying all running activities. And usually, was picked first for many running games.

Well as time went on, I never kept it up. I guess it had something to do with the neighborhood. I just never remember seeing lots of people running, just because. Plus, I was too busy chasing boys.

Needless to say, I do remember one man that ran our neighborhood. In fact, I can still vividly see his outfit (orange/red sweat pants, a homemade white tank top and a white headband). Why is this memory clear? Maybe I yearned to run. Who knows.

After training months for these races, I realized I had finally found a sport. I loved running. Especially, on race day. There is nothing like the energy you feel from those around. Even though these races are over, I have kept up with my training-though not as intense.

Well today after deciding I was tired and needed my couch, I headed home. Once there, I checked the mail and saw that I had received a package. I thought it was something Social Work related. Wrong.

When I opened the package, I saw a note attached to a Runners World Magazine.

Dear RMG (Ha! you thought I was going to tell you my name),

Keep going strong! Just wanted to let you know that you are one of the warmest and encouraging women I know. I always enjoy your beautiful spirit. Thank you for being you. I took the liberty of getting you a subscription. Enjoy and keep going strong!

Love, Peace, Happiness- C (not giving her name either)

Her letter was well timed. It came when I have been analyzing if I was the real deal or a fraud.

While I enjoy running, it is slow; however, steady. I have really been struggling with, does speed make you a runner? If that is true,I am not. And may be considered a jogger.
Even though there is nothing wrong with this, I just like the sound of runner.

After reading this letter, I realized that I am a runner!

You see this letter came from a RUNNER-just (at the moment) a non-practicing practitioner.

Basically if a real Runner sees what I am doing as running, then dangnabbit-I'm a Runner!

Although I believe, once a runner always a runner. Even if you are a little rusty or Sloow.

So as C says, Keep Going Strong! And, that is what I plan on doing.

The Always Truthful,
~RMG

Picture Source: Runnersworld.com