I Could Run Forever!

There is an awareness … an amazing “moment in time” that I’ve experienced a few times in life. It’s a flitting experience when all is perfect in the world. And it is good!

photo © 2008 Mark | more info (via: Wylio)

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It happened yesterday. While running.

It didn’t happen during the first mile or two … no, not that soon. My body is still salivating for the recliner in those early miles.

After a few miles, my body stops complaining and settles into a comfortable rhythm — running three minutes, walking one minute … again and again.

I listen to the sounds around me or to the soft music from my one earbud … other times my mind wanders down one of many trails in my brain.

A few more miles pass … as I do the same loop twice, I get bored. I tire. I want to quit. (who’s stupid idea was this?) I entertain myself by trying different stride lengths. My body begins talking again,  Getting tired here. Slight pain in right foot. The lungs chime in. Need more oxygen!

The lazy part of me wants one of the complaints to be legit … to ‘allow’ me to quit. I evaluate the complaints and know there’s no reason to stress … all is well.

One step at a time … the miles go by.

I’m getting exhausted, but I’m smiling. I’m going to do this. A nine-mile training run for a spring half-marathon.

I come down the last hill and round a turn … and it happens. Though my body is ready to mount a rebellion, I’m suddenly totally charged. For an instance, the world is perfect as I hear/see/smell/feel/think with heighten awareness.

Exhausted? Not me! Problems? None! Issues in life that were bothering me are no more. Anything is possible!

Both the music notes and the slapping of my shoes on the pavement are clear and distinct. I hear the post-race chatter of others. There’s an earthy smell from the melting snow and mud along the side of the road. The sound and feel of my heavy breathing is invigorating. My reflexes are quick and smooth as I dodge a leftover slushy spot.

My mind is directing at its best: Deep breaths. Slush at 7 o’clock. Lengthen your stride. Step lightly like on egg shells. Water puddle at 2 o’clock. This is great … when’s the next race?

I could run forever!

Then as quickly as it came, it’s gone. I’m back in the real world. I want to quit. I don’t care if I’m only 200 ft from the finish. I don’t even try to avoid the next puddle. I don’t care that the water is cold as it soaks through my shoe. I have to force myself to take the last few steps across the finish line.

I’m exhausted and everything hurts as I cool down and stretch … but that moment, that feel of being Ms. Forest Gump makes it all worthwhile.

Race Fee: $15. Shoes: $80. Training: Exhausting. That Moment: Priceless.

Have you ever had a moment or experience like that?