Why I NEED to Run

Why I NEED to Run

...or so i think

To stay in shape

 To have a hobby

To do something for me

To re-define myself
To escape

To set and achieve unlikely goals
Because I really, really, like to eat

 Because I can.

We were cleaning out Dad's house not too long ago, and I came across a pile of old running magazines.

By old, I mean a few months or a year old.

I confiscated them and began feasting. 

I figured, hey, I bought new running shoes, clothes, and head bands, I might as well read about it.

I found two articles that hit me hard. To the core.

1.

The first was a story from a husband about his wife. She had seen him running every day for years and one day said she wanted to start running and asked for tips. 

He said: 

"First, you'll have to make yourself a priority. Get up and run, first, before somebody comes up with something they think is more important for you to do."

Ding-a-ling! Any moms out there that can relate? Everything we do is for someone else! Our hubby, our kids, our neighbors, our family. I know I can relate. 

He went on to state a bunch of great tips, and ended with this quote: 

"Now that I think about it, becoming a runner requires your to change just about everything about your life." 

I could use some positive changes in my life. I could use a hobby. I could use a more healthy lifestyle.

2. 

The second article hit home even more than the first. This time it was a woman sharing her story about how running saved her when one of her children was born with a serious bleeding disorder. She started running to cope with the stress, pain, and sadness. Also so she could cry without upsetting her family. At the end of her story, she said: 

"Running is the only thing I have that's mine. To go sweat, breathe, cry in the rain, and scream or sing in the woods is why I love running."

Amen.

And now, I will run.