I started running because of a cause. Originally, I started out as one of the walkers in the Nike Women’s Half Marathon. I was doing it for my honorees and to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I was proud of myself and was honored to be a part of Team in Training. It’s a good group of people with an amazing purpose.
And then there was this little voice inside of me that kept telling me to run.
I’ve only been running for a few months. I never thought that I would enjoy it or be good at it. And I know what you’re thinking…and you’re right: I’ve taken on a big goal with this half marathon gig. The good news is that Team in Training does an excellent job of training the Newbies. They start you out slow and gradually teach you to build up your mileage. They teach you about proper shoes and clothing. They also warn you about (gasp) chaffing! (Do tell your favorite “lube” if you get the chance. It’s time for me to be looking for that stuff.) They’ve been great…but I would have never believed that I am starting to love to run. I’m enjoying the clarity it has (recently) offered. (Those first few months are TOUGH.) I am starting to become addicted. I am proud that I haven’t quit. And I, um, (cough, cough) like the, er, effect that running has on my rump and legs.
The other day, a co-worker of mine called me a “runner.” Don’t get me wrong - I wasn’t offended by this in any way and was even flattered, but I felt the need to correct her. “I run.” I said. “I’m not a runner yet.”
I don’t know at what point I will feel like I can call myself a “runner.” I guess I’ll know when I get there. Right now, I just love that I’m pushing myself to do something that I never thought was possible…even though I’m SO NERVOUS about getting to that finish line. I look to you “official” runners. I’ve already learned quite a bit from you Marathon Mommies. So, a big thank you. To all of you. You make me that much more excited.
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11 comments:
I want to weep with joy! I love to hear these kinds of things. I feel honored that you are sharing it all with us at Marathon Mommies! I love sharing in the joy of someone who is just discovering the power and joy of running. You have harnessed a new power in your life: Yes, you ARE a runner! It has meaning and a purpose in your life - on many levels. You are doing something good for yourself, your family, and even those you are helping through your fund raising efforts: You are a runner! And you are looking gooood: You are a runner!
Your story is very inspiring and reminds me why I run. I am so glad you are joining us and I hope to hear a lot more from you. You most definitely ARE a runner. I am proud of you and can't wait to hear how your first race goes!
NEVER EVER call yourself a jogger again, JP, promise me that! : D
So glad that you are here!
I could just say "ditto" to Suzie and M&M's post. Instead I'll add this: did any of you watch the Office? Bleeding nipples on a 5-K, carb loading with fettucini alfredo... oh my, I was laughing so hard. Tell me that you saw it, please.
JP-Glad you've joined us. When people hear I ran a marathon, some of them ask what my "cause" was. I've felt a little guilty--like I am selfish for the exultation I felt at having done such a big thing only for me. Not that I chose it that way, but that's how it turned out. A cause would have been better, though, so next time I'll take one up. I've been inspired by you already. :)
Hmm, maybe I will run to eradicate rabies. Chelle, YES! I watched it and held my stomach as I screeched with laughter. Michael scarfing the fettucini and refusing all water (and making fun of Toby, who was the only one who seemed to know what he was doing) really got me. [If you didn't watch it, the cause they were running for was finding a cure for rabies.]
JP, you sound like a runner to me, too. Welcome!
The Office: LOVE IT! It's the only show I watch. Andy's chafing comments were hilarious and I could not stop laughing seeing him in his shirt with his nipples taped. The scenes of him drafting were pretty funny, too. I loved that Michael thought 5K meant 5,000 miles and the scene with Stanley and the other two having drinks to kill time during the race, only to hop out of a taxi at the finish line? SO FUNNY!
Thanks for running for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. My little Lymphoma girl thanks you!
My heart was too full to post a comment to say thank you for all the niceness and so I waited a couple of days. Well then I read LCM's comment and I just started crying. I just can't imagine what you guys are going through.
LCM, can Fiona be one of my honorees?
I love this blog.
So glad to have you posting. I love when I see people "come into the light" of running. The way running makes me feel seems like such a personal, unique feeling that only belongs to me, but then I realize millions of people feel the same way. It always amazes me when I line up at a start line how many people are there, nervous, excited, trained and ready to run! Welcome to the world of being a runner!
Be sure to add Maddy to your list of honorees. I just call her Fiona so my family won't stumble on my blog and I can say whatever I want!
We have received so much help from the Leukemia Lymphoma society and I am grateful for all who help them.
I just e-mailed my mentor for an Honoree bracelet that says "Maddy Fiona" :)
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