When I started running I had zero interest in races. I wanted to complete a half marathon and lose a few pounds. 5K's? No thanks. 10K's? No interest. Just crossing the half off my bucket list thank you!
But thankfully a good friend strongly encouraged me to run a 5K right before that first half to get the hang of packet pick up and race day routine. That race changed things for me.
Being in a sea of other runners all out for personal bests and accomplishing personal goals, while sharing a common interest and supporting each other -- it was exhilarating. I'm not much of a crowd person but it filled me with so much adrenaline and excitement that I've wanted to be a part of it ever since.
Back when I was a teenager, I was too afraid to try out for anything because I didn't want to fail. I was terrified of not making the cut and being embarrassed. Our pastor shared something Sunday that I wish I'd taken to heart all those years ago. As he talked about fear he said, "I'd rather aim too high and miss than aim too low and hit." It's a simple truth but it resonated with me and it's something I want my boys to understand very early. I hope they'll see me trying things (that are sometimes out of my comfort zone) and gain a sense of confidence that they can too.
Tomorrow I'll be heading out for my first half marathon since recovering from my stress fracture. I won't be going for a PR and I'll likely be walking a bit. But I can't wait to be among my running community again. I love the diversity, the old, the young, and the in between. I can't wait to see who passes me, to see all the bright crazy running clothes, share laughs with friends and strangers, crank up some tunes, and meet up with Mr. C at the finish line for a high five and my fifth medal.
I'm just so thankful to be on these feet and running again. And to remember how every finish line feels like this.
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Do you have any races this weekend? Here's wishing you luck!
