Finding That Post 2 Mile Joy

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If you hang around me at all you know that I am not shy when it comes to talking about running.  The blog is just a natural extension of something I like to do in person, and anybody that spends more than a minute or two with me is painfully aware of this.  I guess that is what happens when you are passionate about something, you just can’t keep your love and experiences to yourself.

Because of this, I occasionally get an email, tweet, or message on Facebook telling me how I have been an inspiration or at the least an encouragement or motivation for starting or continuing when things get tough.  By far, that is the most fulfilling part of the journey I have taken, and brings a undeniable smile to my face regardless of how things are going at the time.

Yesterday was one of those days.  One of those messages came in that let the stresses of life, and worries of not being able to run seem to just disappear.  The message came from my friend Robin, and she has given me permission to post it.  I have taken a little bit out, but left the best parts in.

Hey Tim!

Just wanted to update you and tell you that I got my 3 miles today!!! Not looking for a pat on the back or anything like that. You're just like my running Yoda and I wanted to tell you. I also think I found that post 2 mile joy you've been telling me about! I haven't had it until this morning, but something happened today that was so cool. I can't quite describe it except to say that, my legs moved without much persuading or lamenting. It felt strong and so amazing. It was as if I had run 3 miles every day my whole life. I didn't seem to notice how heavy my legs felt or how long I had been at it or any other thing that normally distracts me. It was like I just settled in and ran. It was a great moment. 

(concerning an up-coming race) Still so nervous about running in front of people. But I am really excited about completing this goal. Tomorrow makes 11 weeks since I started working on this and I'm really pleased with the progress. The first week of July I couldn't run for more than a minute, probably less than 40 seconds, without having to stop. 

Anyway...sorry to go on and on. Just wanted to tell you about the milestone. Now I just have to strengthen it. Who knows maybe I'll starting adding another 3 or maybe 10. 

--Robin

Robin, and others that write me to tell me how I have helped motivate them or inspire them do not realize how much it means to me to hear those words.  They think they are the ones getting the benefit, but I hate to tell them that I am getting much more from those emails and messages than they could ever imagine.

Whether it is that first mile that you were inspired to run, the motivation to get on that treadmill, or the fact that you just completed your first marathon that I encouraged you to pursue – thank you for sharing your successes.  It is the fuel that keeps me going, and keeps me smiling.