Running

Why Run?

HA! Many endurance athletes ask themselves that very same question all the time! It is not like I make a living at this or even get paid money to do so. Why put your body through a grueling 30 hour run, nonstop for a belt buckle or a medal? I have lost toenails, deep blisters, crushed my organs, ran through briars that made my legs look like they have gone through a meat grinder…. Twice. Typically, after a 50+ mile run or race, I have a hard time moving and walking up stairs. I have run so far that sitting down to use the restroom was a chore. Getting back up, even more difficult.

Yet through all the difficulties that endurance running brings to a human, it adds much more that it demands. The running community is second to none. People from all walks of life, in similar attire, get out there and battle each other and themselves. To know oneself, so much must be stripped away. Ego, self, is torn from a person at the higher milage and you come face to face with all your demons of doubt about oneself. Well, at least that is my experience. While running for hours on end, nothing is left except sheer will and determination to move forward regardless of ANYTHING and get across the finish line. I learn about myself. What I can do and how far I can go against all odds.

This kind of grit and determination can be used in all areas of life. Completing that major project at work, creating new technologies to enhance peoples lives, being a dad to six kids, and so on. No one can take these accomplishments or cellular-level knowledge from you. You know you can do it, regardless of the mental bantering or doubt, regardless of any emotion. Lace up and get out there!