I am training to run a 5k.
The program I am using to train has me walk a little, run a little, walk a little, run. Today my runs were 1.5 minutes long, with 6 alternating runs. That's a half a minute longer than I have been running each time. A half a minute is a lot more than you think.
While I was running I would do one of two things. I would either focus on the very tip of the mountain in the horizon directly ahead of me, or I would focus on a point down the road about 12 yards away. Both would get me where I needed to be. Both would push me faster and harder. Both made the run possible and successful.
When I looked to the mountain tops, I was in my head, picturing the hike, the last climb, and the exhilaration of making it so high. I was focusing on something I love to do. And somewhere I'd love to be. I was ahead of the game and it was joyful.
Running takes work, especially with this small stride of mine. When I felt the exhaustion creeping in, I'd switch my focus, and pick a point straight ahead. A light pole, a spot on the asphalt, a curve in the road, and then I'd tell myself that I could make it to that point and then we'd see. I'd run it, and if time hadn't run out yet, I'd pick a new spot, a new short-range focus and run that. Until the time when my headphones beeped the cue that I could walk for a bit. And then I'd celebrate what I had just done. I was diligent and it made me proud.
This morning I woke up with a purpose, I planned for a run, I ate a good breakfast, I rejoiced in something that I had done for my kid that seemed to be exactly what he needed, I laughed, I read scriptures with my family, I prayed, I hugged and kissed goodbyes, I stretched, and then I ran.
And I learned.
Sometimes the lessons are so obvious, they need no clarification.
Oh, happy day!
-Amy
