I suppose there have been times when I have been running from something.  For sure, there have been times when I have been running through something.  But as I look back, I catch a glimmer of the hope I could not see but somehow felt.

I started running when I was thirteen years old.  My Dad was running to stay in shape.  Maybe though, he was running for a deeper purpose.  And maybe someday he and I will chat about such things.

Regardless, he taught me how to run that year.  And how to walk steady.  

I joined my junior high track team.  I was minimally successful per society’s standards, but running quickly became a part of me, and in that I have enjoyed tremendous “success.”

Running has been a thread throughout life ever since.  It became the way I breathed deeply and got outside.  It brought fresh air and vitamin D, and focus.  Running got my kids and I outside, as well as our canine companions.  Running is how I have stayed in shape;  physically and emotionally, and for sure spiritually.  I have had some of my most profound revelations and done some of my best processing while out putting one foot in front of the other.

The hills I have run up have made me breath.  The flat paths have made me continue.  The downhills have helped me rest, yet remain focused.  Sometimes running has not been fun at all, but I kept going anyway.

I have enjoyed hearing the birds and seeing the beauty around me.  Taking in the cultures of different places.  Discovering what was around the next bend in the road or over the next hill.  Enjoying friendship and inspiration from others.

As I grow older (emphasis on “grow”), I run in part because I recognize that there are many who would if they could.  

To celebrate this forty year journey of running, I have asked my kids to run three miles with me.  To run my pace (far slower than theirs), and to take in what our run will mean.  They have agreed, with a hint of a groan, and that’s okay.  They do not have to understand all that running has meant to me, or how it helped save my life.  They know enough about me to understand enough.

Running is a lot like life: if we show up and endeavor, persist and remain open, we will become able for the next step.  And as we become more able, we understand and appreciate the richness of each step.  

If you see me out putting one foot in front of the other, stop me and say hello.  Or maybe join me.  It is all about life, and I am happy to run, and live, alongside.

Oh, and buy good running shoes.  Your feet are the foundation for your whole body.  But that is a topic for another day.

Glad to be running steady,

Jill

©Jill Couch