Despite many challenges and a few setbacks this year, I have so much to be grateful for. Being sick changes everything.
For me running is usually an indicator of how life is going in general, and through my running journey, I’ve learned so many valuable lessons that encompass so much more than just running.
Here’s what I’m giving thanks for this Thanksgiving.
I am finally able to run at a faster pace and run further. It’s not that speed and distance are the be-all-end-all, but getting faster means I’m getting stronger and healthier. I thank God for this every day.
I’m more tuned into the environment which helps me appreciate the beauty and wonder of the natural world. I’ve learned to take my focus off what’s uncomfortable (foot pain) and notice what’s around me instead, like the changing leaves, the scenic river, and lots of breathtaking eagle sightings, which are always inspiring.
The opportunity to run with my husband is something we thought was in the past. Due to injury, he thought he’d never run again, but thanks to a shift in perspective, nutrition, and weightlifting, he’s back at it. We’ve learned to never say never and for that we are both immensely grateful.
Witnessing beautiful sunrises over the lake (which I’d never see if I didn’t run) is a true gift. Running ensures time outdoors now that the weather is changing, and I know how much that benefits my mood. Sunrises, fresh air and nature are true blessings that we all need to appreciate.
Most of all, I am so grateful for the local running community we’ve built this past year. For the most part, I’ve been a solo runner for the last few decades. I never minded running alone. In fact, I preferred the time to myself. For the past few months though, I’ve been hitting the roads with others several times a week and I’m truly loving it. When you run with others, you instantly bond and become friends, even if you have nothing else in common. There’s something magical about running that instantly connects you. Whether it’s four or five of us running or walking together before the sun comes up, or a group of twenty walkers and runners getting together on a beautiful Sunday morning – it’s instant community.
What better way to start the day than cheering each other on as you traverse back and forth along the beautiful river? Even when a run feels bad physically, I still walk away feeling more hopeful and happy thanks to the camaraderie.
I’m so grateful for this latest season of running. The community vibe along with seeing others accomplish big goals, motivated me to commit to running 55K for my 55th birthday. I’m so excited for the upcoming training and planning of the run. Without other people, it would have remained a pipe dream known only to me.
Of course, I’m extremely grateful for my family who allows me to drag them to group runs early in the morning, on holidays, and in terrible weather. They rarely complain and always make the adventure more special and fun just by being there. Sharing the roads with them, giving them high-fives and making memories together are things I cherish.
Running is a gift I used to take for granted. When my heart issues forced me to stop and consequently wonder if I’d ever get beyond walking again, I finally grasped how fortunate I am. When I had to start from scratch, I vowed to appreciate the ability to run and a much better relationship with running was born. I realized that every step forward is a gift. All of the benefits such as physical and mental health and an incredible community of people, motivate me every single day.
God blessed me with the ability to run. Throughout my life, I’ve taken that for granted and didn’t realize how lucky I am. This Thanksgiving I’m celebrating all of the lessons running has taught me and the community that inspires me every day. I’m praying that I continue to appreciate all the blessings in my life and take time each day to acknowledge them and offer up a heartfelt thank you.
What is something in YOUR life that you have taken for granted? What are YOU most grateful for this year?