I have come to love running. My body does not always love it, and often tries to convince me that I shouldn’t run another mile. It attempts to sabotage the run by depriving my lungs of oxygen, making my side feel like a knife is digging into my ribs, and sending jolts of pain through my shins and calves.
Some days my body wins. Even before the run begins, my body can win the battle. Other times my mind triumphs and revels in the sights and sounds along the way. While exhausting, the surge of adrenaline that comes from running is addictive.
A few months ago I ran my first 5k, the Dam to Dam. On Saturday I will run in my second 5k this year, with plans to run at least one more around November with my sister and brother-in-law.
I feel more like a runner. I have running shoes, a nice running shirt, and even a CamelBak to maintain a supply of water while I’m out there. I read articles on some running websites. I’ve started logging my weekly miles. I’ve even written a poem or two about running.
A year ago I never could have imagined enjoying running. It sounds so boring and uneventful. Those who don’t like to run, or have never given it a serious attempt, probably think I am crazy for doing it. Sometimes, when my alarm goes off around 5:30, I even think I am crazy for getting up early to run.
But once I’m out there, even with the complaints my body makes during and after the run, I enjoy running. If you’ve never tried it, consider giving it a serious attempt. You might just find that you like it.
And you might just have a little more respect for those who go out and do it several times a week, because it is harder than it looks.
Last week I wrote my final poem for my Poetry Writing class. It was our second week writing a poem in a Villanelle format. As difficult as it can be writing in this format, I found myself enjoying the structure once the poem was complete. And, for my last poem, I chose to write about running.
ANOTHER MILE FADES AWAY
My feet hit the trail again today,
the early morning sun rises up high,
behind me another mile fades away.
Cars and trucks pass, heading to the highway,
unaware of the scenery they pass by.
My feet hit the trail again today.
Vibrant hues of grass and trees on display,
the verdant canopy shading from sky.
Behind me another mile fades away.
Birds swoop from tree to tree, in shades of gray
and crimson and gold. My feet make me fly
by, hitting the trail again today.
In the winding creek three young mallards play
a game, chasing an azure dragonfly.
Behind me another mile fades away.
With naught but nature around me, each day
begins with God’s beauty for me to spy.
My feet hit the trail again today,
behind me yesterday’s miles fade away.
That was another excellent post today. Thanks so much for sharing. Keep up the fantastic job.
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Beautiful!