The post where I admit I cry while running

But not because I am in pain. I cry because I am so grateful to be able to run.

It is when I clear my head and fill it right up again with great ideas. It is when I see the ocean and marvel at the enduring beauty that greets me each run. It is when I actually hear the lyrics to the songs on my playlist. Really hear them. It is when I feel pain from my asthma or my arthritis and instead of feeling old, I feel empowered and alive. It is one of the only times when I say thank you for pain. It is also the only time when wearing leggings as pants is acceptable…

I run for my friend who is living every day with bravery. I run for the photographer who just lost her battle with cancer. I run for my dad whom I miss very much. I run for my kids so they can see their mom try something hard. I run for me so that I can continue to like the person I see in the mirror. I run for my husband so we can grow old together.

I run for the person whose name is on that bench I pass each time.

Once I read an old epitaph that stayed with me like a tattoo on my brain. It said:

Remember man as you pass by
As you are now, so once was I
As I am now, so you must be
So prepare therefore, to follow me.

I run so that I am fully living my life as that is the only way I can be prepared for anything. A lot of times the emotions that come out in the safety of my run mean I have myself a good old fashioned cry. It is funny how I can feel so alone and so connected at the same time. I never thought I would say it, but running has changed my life.

I am hoping to do some good with my running and on December the 2nd, I will be running in my very first 5K to raise money for Breast Cancer Support and Research. If you can, please help me run to change someone else’s life. Click here to donate and I promise to make you proud.

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