What Running Has Taught Me

Running, as most people know, is a challenging activity. It requires you to be tough not only physically, but mentally as well. Distance runners are not merely successful because they are in good shape and log a lot of miles every week, they are also successful because they have the strength and the power to overcome all of the pain and fatigue, and keep pushing on even when they know they can stop.

Running teaches us so many things. It's extremely natural and primitive, and humans were meant to run. The great thing about running is that the further you run, the more it strips you down to who you really are. You can put on a fake front for others, or even yourself as much as you want, but when it's just you and the pavement for 12 miles who you really are surfaces.

Running allows us to push ourselves, to teach ourselves discipline, and most of all to learn who we really are. Most people underestimate themselves. I know I did for a long time saying things like "I just wasn't born athletic" or "I could never run 13 miles!". But the truth is I am athletic, strong, powerful, fast, and have come to realize that not only can I run 13 miles, but I can run 26.2. Sure, sometimes I have to push myself and not allow myself to give in and stop. Sure sometimes I'm exhausted and don't think I can go on... but I can. "Your brain is always ready to give up way before your legs ever are."

Personally, running has taught me discipline. It has taught me that I am stronger and smarter than I have ever given myself credit for. It has taught me that with perseverance, I really can do anything I set my mind to if I want it badly enough. So I plan to continue to push my boundaries. I plan to continue increasing my mileage, my speed, and my love of the most natural and God-given freedom this world has to offer. Because running isn't just a time for me to reflect, get outside and enjoy nature, sweat my ass off, or even escape all of the day to day stress and worry of life(although those are all reasons that get my ass out of bed every morning at 6am for my morning run) ... it's a chance for me to realize how amazing God has made me, and how much I am capable of... and I think that's pretty awesome.