If only my legs could talk. I guess in a way, they were talking to me all morning during my run with Dave and Henry. During all 18.76 miles of the run. They were basically saying, "Stop! Right now! I don't want to do this!" I, in return, told them to shut up and trudged along the lakewalk and Hwy 61 for a decent run that was only made better by my company.
These are the days when running with someone is invaluable. I used to be a solo runner, mostly because I lived in small town Iowa and only a handful of people there ran anyway. But also, because I preferred running alone. Now, I've come to learn the value of running with others on occasion, that it's not only important because having others there helps push you through the days like today, but also because it's really good just to get out and be with the guys for a bit.
That being said, I do still like to run solo at times and to go inside myself for a while, that's needed by everyone, and me in particular because I'm a pretty introspective person. (Indeed, I probably self-analyze too often!) But by now I've grown pretty sick of myself and need to have that time with others, so it's really nice to have these guys to run with. I think I've found a good balance.
And so speaking of balance and self-analyzing, I've been thinking a lot lately about my life. About where I'm at and where I'm going. I have friends that I love, a job that I love, and a supportive family. I have pride in who I've become but I also have a commitment to trying to improve myself, everyday. It's true that there's an area or two in my life that's maybe lacking, things I need to work on, strengths to be gained and potential for an even greater life, but all in all I'm overwhelmingly happy and content.
Even on those long runs, when I don't feel 100%, there's still value to be taken, still an opportunity to learn.
"I ate so much SPAM last night." -Dave H. (I can't take credit for that one!)
Great post Tony. We all have areas of "lacking." One of mine includes financial management. Ugh. Like you I have so many beautiful things in my life. Recently someone asked me what I would be willing to give up (love my family, career, friends, health, passion...) to have financial freedom. I couldn't pick one of the beautiful things. Rather I am embracing the challenge and trying to be more financially responsible.
ReplyDeleteAnyway. Last night's run was nice. Love the energy of the group and I so look forward to another season.
Today I am fighting a horrible cold. Home today and giving into it. Hope to be back at it soon.
Thanks Dina!
ReplyDeleteYes, I think one of the most wonderful things in life is to recognize one's weaknesses and try to improve them. To continue to get better, to be more compassionate, more patient, more giving. The key word in "financial responsibility" is "responsibility". That's were the happiness lies, not in the finances but in being responsible. And to me, financial freedom means to be free from the attachment that so often comes with increased finances. My personal happiness comes not from "more" or even from "less" but from being thankful for what I have and from being content.
It was great to see you at the run, it will be a really fun group this year, I'm excited for it.
Feel better!
I ate so much spam last night again!!
ReplyDeleteAwesome post Tony! I like your comments above. I need to learn to be content. It is one of my biggest weaknesses.
ReplyDeleteIt is great to see your blog. I can't wait to follow it.