The Art of Distance Running

Everybody has hobbies that they enjoy doing, but few people are lucky enough to have a true passion for something. Its what you love to do more than anything in the world; and when you're not doing it, it's what your thinking about it. My passion is running. It has been for as long as I can remember. It's what I enjoy to do when I'm happy, and it's what relieves my stress when I'm sad. For me running is more than just a hobby or a sport or a way to stay in shape; it's a way of life. I have often thought about what I would do if I couldn't walk. I would be lost. I would feel like a painter who lost his hand, or an opera singer who lost his voice. My legs are what carry me through my most joyous times as well as my darkest times.

Some of my most meaningful conversations I have ever had have been on a run, whether it be with a friend or by myself. For me running is a time to reflect on daily life; on what I am and what I aspire to be. However sometimes the true art of running is doing the complete opposite, thinking about nothing. Completely clearing the mind of problems, worries, ideas, everything that gives us gray hair and prevents us from falling asleep at night. For that one hour that my legs are carrying me somewhere, I have no worries. Running is a form of meditation for me, and it can be done any time and anywhere. This is a bond that all runners share, because we know exactly what its like to need to go out for a run. I believe that the most beautiful thing in the world is when its ten degrees outside, or 110 degrees, and I see someone running. Some would see this and think its completely crazy, but to me it makes perfect sense.

I have run thousands of miles in my life. Some with friends, some alone, some even barefoot. But one thing I can honestly say is that I have never been on a run where I haven't pushed myself. That is something that my high school cross country coach instilled upon me. He would always say, "If you don't go out there every day on a mission to get faster, then why are you running?" This is a meaning that I try to carry over to every aspect of my daily life. God blessed me with two legs that work, and if I'm going to run, then I'm going to do everything in my power to be the best.