Diary of a Runner: The Race…and the Journey

Last weekend, I ran a half-marathon race, a big event where there were well over 2000 runners.  I had just run a half-marathon two weeks before that and was coming off my fastest time to that point.  I knew my training and preparation had me more than ready for the second race; however, you never know what is in store for you race day – so many things are variable, for instance the weather, how many runners are on the course, would my allergies affect my breathing.  So, I’ve taken the attitude to just go out, run, not worry about the time, bask in nature, and enjoy the race.  This attitude had already delivered two personal bests, so it was an effective approach.  When I reached mile marker one and given that I was feeling strong, I visualized myself crossing the finish line at a personal record time.  After that, I took in the beautiful scenery, high-fived some of the children lining the course and ran my race.  This all was energizing, as was the fact that as each mile went by, I was below my target mile split time.  I finished the race with my fastest time ever, three personal records in three consecutive races.

So, what is different between a race and a life journey?  A race has a defined course, a start, mile markers, check points, and a finish line.  It is almost impossible to stray off course, especially with the race marshals directing traffic.  However, in life, it is easy to wander off course, get stuck in place, or even get turned around in the wrong direction.  This is a paradox we all live with as the major difference between a race and a life journey is that there is no defined course.  The journey starts when we are born; it ends when we die.  In between, we have free will to follow whatever direction we want; there is no clear roadmap.  However, life does have mile markers, check points, and race marshals.  Family members, friends, mentors, and teachers keep us on course through their teaching, through their counsel, as a sounding board, and to give us reality checks.  The Universe sends us signs and clues to keep us on course as well as to help us identify and achieve our Life Purposes.  Our dreams also help keep us on course, as do our intuitions and thoughts.  Although each of our life journeys are rarely clear cut, the mile markers and checkpoints are there.  All it takes is to look for the signs, hear the messages, act on intuition, and follow our hearts.

I’m finished racing for the year, but there is next year to look forward to.  I run not only to train for races, but to meditate, be at one with nature, spend quality time with my daughter and friends, and revitalize the soul.  Running not only helps me stay in shape, it also helps me stay on course.  Not everyone is a runner, but everyone has a life journey.  So follow the signs fearlessly and journey onward.