The Saving Power of Running

As we were getting ready to start our TEAM practice yesterday morning, a young lady gave a personal account of her battle with cancer and how it has affected her life.  Any such story is always humbling, but it seems especially so when it's a first-hand account of the experience.  More than once she mentioned how much she loves running, and how it has saved her life.  I found myself nodding in agreement, completely aware of what she was talking about as that part has been the same for me.  Throughout the years running has been a comfort, a coping mechanism, an escape; taking these past few months off wore me down more than I realized because I was missing that outlet.

Running doesn't always get the credit it deserves.  I know it's not for everyone, but I often hear people shrug off running because they think it's boring - that just means they're doing it wrong!  I'm sure somebody somewhere has done some kind of analysis of the correlation between the advance of portable music and the increase in running, which is probably the easiest way to overcome some of the doubters.  I generally don't run with music, using the time to take everything in and let all of the problems of my world shift and settle in my subconscious.  They bounce around in there along with everything else and somehow leave me feeling a little more stable afterwards.  The fresh air, the sound of the birds, and the scenery (even on busy city streets!) all help renew my spirits as well.

Of course not enough can be said about the healthy side effects of running, and the 40+ pounds I've dropped weighed so much more on my sense of self than my frame.

But for me, the number one saving power of running is the feeling of accomplishment it's brought to my life.  When I'm on the road or the course, I'm there to push myself and test my limits; each new distance or PR gives me a sense of pride that's not as easily found elsewhere.  This in turn has revived my spirit time and again.

I'm happy to report that this young lady is in remission and back to running.  Her story was a great reminder of how powerful the sport is on our souls as well as our bodies.

Why do you do what you do?

Last year my beloved aunt was a guest pastor and this was the title of her sermon. Sadly I don’t recall much of the talk itself, but at times I still pause to reflect on its message. Why is it that we do the things we do? How often do we take the time to consider the impact we make, the mark we leave, or the path we create?


I run to free my mind and strengthen my body; this in turn nourishes my soul. It’s really difficult to focus on breathing, good running form, watching out for traffic, not tripping over something, and your problems all at the same time so something’s gotta give! It won’t make the burdens any lighter, but helps give the mind a break and put a little perspective on things.

I volunteer to help when somebody with a need asks for help. My talents, however small, and willingness to pitch in make a difference to those who seek assistance. It’s not always dirty work, even though I would prefer to wash dishes than get yet another onion cutting lesson for the homeless meal events! It’s through these experiences I’ve met some pretty great people working towards some even better causes. And sometimes there are even hidden rewards like a t-shirt, a store discount or my personal favorite, the free lunch. The small words of gratitude are more than plentiful payment for my time.

I teach to pass along my knowledge, which is even more valuable when shared. Watching the light bulb go off is the most rewarding part; I just wish I could see that happen more often. I don’t know everything, but I know a few things worth passing along and I often learn more in the process. My Grandpa J never stopped learning and delighted in the lessons to be found in everyday experiences and was never shy about sharing them!

I reach out to help those I care about not out of obligation or expectation of return, but to help soothe a hurt or need the best way that I can. This has been returned to me in unquantifiable amounts in my own times of hardship. Don’t let the fear of not knowing what to say keep you from saying anything at all; most times it just helps to know that somebody cares and is willing to listen.

I aim to inspire because it gives right back to me, lifting my spirits to watch the progress of a friend. Hearing stories of accomplishment is so incredibly rewarding, which is one of the reasons why I write this blog to continue encouraging others to reach towards the limits of their comfort zones.

Why do you do what you do?

Starting Over

When embarking on a new journey, it helps to reflect if it’s one you’ve been on before.  Good times, bad experiences, things learned… though some lessons sink in gradually and become clearer and less painful as time passes.  As I start my new season of marathon training, I already know some tricks of the trade that worked for me last time but I’m open to new views and ways of taking on the miles.  Last time I also encountered injury; I want to improve on my past performance while I stay healthy and protect myself.  This will require even more determination and dedication than before.  The excitement of the other runners, the cheers from the crowd, and the sight of the finish line are all things that draw me back time and again (not to mention the medal!)  But to that I can add a cause, a calling to help, a bigger purpose.

Joining Team in Training will forever change my life; I’ve only been to a few events but can tell that together we will make an impact on countless others.  Hearing the stories of people that have undergone cancer treatment or lost loved ones makes the problems of my own world seem smaller, or at least somehow more manageable.  A longing to help, to reach out and do something will be answered in some small way by my participation in this group and the change and hope we will bring to those lives as well as our own.

We’ll start small and aim big, taking it one step at a time.  This is a challenge I will embrace in this new chapter of my life; I will be a better person for this experience and hope to encourage others on the way.  Go Team!