Since breaking my treadmill rut this past Saturday, and getting in 15 miles last week, I have been battling another sore throat! I had planned to take Sunday off, but not Monday and Tuesday! My sore throat began on Sunday evening. I've been treating it as best I can. Rest, the ol' salt water gargle, oil of oregano, extra vitamin C and lots of hydration. Today I'm swallowing without feeling any throat irritation. My hope is to run tomorrow.
When setbacks come and I look in my daytimer and do not see them scheduled in there by my own hand, I have learned to see the faint print of the hand of God. Interruptions in my life, unplanned by my own desires, are always opportunities to draw closer to the Lord, to wait upon Him and follow His lead in whatever direction He is guiding.
Proverbs 16:9 says that "the mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps." Even the smallest of setbacks as in another sore throat (2nd one in just a couple of weeks), I believe can be used by the Lord for my good. It's all about the heart, and He is looking at my attitude when I don't get my way - my preference to be running according to my plan.
Hopefully and Lord willing, my waiting will be over by tomorrow and I'll get the privilege to run.
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Running and Breaking Ruts!
Bless the Lord oh my soul, and all that is within me bless His holy name! Although I didn't break my 4 mile rut, I did break a treadmill rut!
Today it was raining. Kind of a steady constant rain all day long. That meant a treadmill day. And usually my habit has been running only a 3 miler on it. I never seemed to question or second quess the 3 mile run on the treadmill. I suppose I just felt content with it. It didn't even seem to bother me that it was a rut. It was acceptable to me even if the 4 mile rut outside wasn't. It's about all I'd make time for, or put up with. Treadmill running is just a lot harder for me. It's more monotonous. It makes me run at a faster pace and then makes me have to keep up with that pace. It also requires more focus because if I don't focus well, I could end up losing my balance and falling. And that would be bad!
I'm not sure when I decided to go for it, but I think somewhere at about the 1 1/2 mile mark, I just said to myself, "I am not stopping til I run 4 miles!" And I didn't. It was that simple. I just decided mentally that that was the deal, period! I will say that I had to humbly lower my pace a bit but I just wasn't going to quit! Or walk! I kept running til we made it to 4! Yeah! :)
Throughout the run my decisive spirit seemed to give me a kind of momentum. It was mind conquering the flesh, the emotions and even the pull to stop because of other things demanding my time and attention. It sure felt good to break a treadmill rut I wasn't even seeing or considering a rut!
Today is Saturday which means I get the privilege to go to church tonight to worship my Lord and Savior King Jesus with the saints. Perhaps tonight I'll decide to break out of my worship rut and do something worshipful in a different way! How often we Christians find ourselves in all sort of spiritual ruts - not even knowing they are mere ruts! May God's Spirit compel me/us out of the ordinary as He falls a fresh on me/us for His glory!
Today it was raining. Kind of a steady constant rain all day long. That meant a treadmill day. And usually my habit has been running only a 3 miler on it. I never seemed to question or second quess the 3 mile run on the treadmill. I suppose I just felt content with it. It didn't even seem to bother me that it was a rut. It was acceptable to me even if the 4 mile rut outside wasn't. It's about all I'd make time for, or put up with. Treadmill running is just a lot harder for me. It's more monotonous. It makes me run at a faster pace and then makes me have to keep up with that pace. It also requires more focus because if I don't focus well, I could end up losing my balance and falling. And that would be bad!
I'm not sure when I decided to go for it, but I think somewhere at about the 1 1/2 mile mark, I just said to myself, "I am not stopping til I run 4 miles!" And I didn't. It was that simple. I just decided mentally that that was the deal, period! I will say that I had to humbly lower my pace a bit but I just wasn't going to quit! Or walk! I kept running til we made it to 4! Yeah! :)
Throughout the run my decisive spirit seemed to give me a kind of momentum. It was mind conquering the flesh, the emotions and even the pull to stop because of other things demanding my time and attention. It sure felt good to break a treadmill rut I wasn't even seeing or considering a rut!
Today is Saturday which means I get the privilege to go to church tonight to worship my Lord and Savior King Jesus with the saints. Perhaps tonight I'll decide to break out of my worship rut and do something worshipful in a different way! How often we Christians find ourselves in all sort of spiritual ruts - not even knowing they are mere ruts! May God's Spirit compel me/us out of the ordinary as He falls a fresh on me/us for His glory!
Friday, January 27, 2006
Running and a Hodge Podge of Randomness
This afternoon I hit the running course a little later than usual. There were a lot more cars and buses going by on the road, which made for a lot more noise. I left my house at about 3pm and imagine folks were coming home from school or work at this time. It definitely is a lot more quieter running around noon.
Anyhow, I managed to get in 4miles again, feeling the rut once again. A fellow runner I know would label a four miler as mere junk miles, (he's getting ready for a marathon, that's why), but for me, it's not defined that way at all, even in spite of the rut I feel bored with. I still am so grateful to go 4, and I will take it.
As I ran, nothing seemed to be consistently on my mind. Thoughts were random. I began like every other run, praying for protection in the many areas I always do. Over the years of running, the list has grown. I pray for protection against evil and perverse men, protection from cars, protection from falling, protection from dogs, protection from flying creatures (birds, bees, wasps, etc...) and flying debree. I've had things fly in my eye before and with contact lenses, it's a pain. You don't want to stop running but you got something under your lens. It's a big pain. I also pray for protection from bodily injury to my bones, muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, and interal organs. Quite a list. But I never start a run without going to the Lord to ask His protection regarding these areas of concern.
So, after I prayed, my mind seemed to notice all the traffic, all the noise and I really couldn't concentrate on any one thing. I did catch myself counting all the American Flags I saw on my route. There were 5. They were waving gloriously in the unusual warm January air (51 degree) and blue sky. For a moment, I had a sense of appreciating my freedom and this country.
But my mind didn't linger there, and strayed to suggest that I probably should get some new running shoes! That's a hundred dollars in the bucket! I began to think which brand to get? And when would I sneak in the time to go get them.
That thought was fleeting. Then there just seemed to be mental dead space without any thoughts at all. I couldn't even seem to engage in any intercession of sorts. Maybe my mind was just being lazy! I didn't focus very well. I was glad when my run was over. It seemed without meaning. I don't like my runs to be like that.
Such is the life without God, without meaning and purpose, random without clear direction. I am glad God is in my life, and though I may have had a hodge podge of random thoughts on my run today, I do have clear focus overall in my life because of Him.
Anyhow, I managed to get in 4miles again, feeling the rut once again. A fellow runner I know would label a four miler as mere junk miles, (he's getting ready for a marathon, that's why), but for me, it's not defined that way at all, even in spite of the rut I feel bored with. I still am so grateful to go 4, and I will take it.
As I ran, nothing seemed to be consistently on my mind. Thoughts were random. I began like every other run, praying for protection in the many areas I always do. Over the years of running, the list has grown. I pray for protection against evil and perverse men, protection from cars, protection from falling, protection from dogs, protection from flying creatures (birds, bees, wasps, etc...) and flying debree. I've had things fly in my eye before and with contact lenses, it's a pain. You don't want to stop running but you got something under your lens. It's a big pain. I also pray for protection from bodily injury to my bones, muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, and interal organs. Quite a list. But I never start a run without going to the Lord to ask His protection regarding these areas of concern.
So, after I prayed, my mind seemed to notice all the traffic, all the noise and I really couldn't concentrate on any one thing. I did catch myself counting all the American Flags I saw on my route. There were 5. They were waving gloriously in the unusual warm January air (51 degree) and blue sky. For a moment, I had a sense of appreciating my freedom and this country.
But my mind didn't linger there, and strayed to suggest that I probably should get some new running shoes! That's a hundred dollars in the bucket! I began to think which brand to get? And when would I sneak in the time to go get them.
That thought was fleeting. Then there just seemed to be mental dead space without any thoughts at all. I couldn't even seem to engage in any intercession of sorts. Maybe my mind was just being lazy! I didn't focus very well. I was glad when my run was over. It seemed without meaning. I don't like my runs to be like that.
Such is the life without God, without meaning and purpose, random without clear direction. I am glad God is in my life, and though I may have had a hodge podge of random thoughts on my run today, I do have clear focus overall in my life because of Him.
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Running, Regrets and Redeeming the Time
Just before I set out to run I received a phone call about a dear ol' friend and saint who went home to Jesus last night. Her name was Jeanette and of course I thought of her through out my whole four mile run.
Upon hearing the news and as I ran reflecting on her memory, I could see her so vividly dancing and singing praises to Jesus in His presence. So full of joy, so full of peace! I felt so happy for her too. No more suffering with the cancer that she had endured for possibly almost 2 years. No more chemo, no more pain. Just pure felicity and delight!
Earth's loss is indeed heaven's gain and though I shall never see Jeanette this side of glory, I know I will see her someday again, in a context incomparable to what my eyes behold now.
With each step I took, I thought of a few special memories of this precious saint. Most recent was the lunch at Steak-n-Shake this past fall. I thought I got together to encourage her and all the while, she was the one who encouraged me! As she ate up her chili mac, not leaving one crumb on her plate, she told me of the ministry God had given her because of the cancer. She told me of all the sick folks she would share with about the Lord and pray with as they would receive their chemo together. Her attitude was just unbelievable! When I asked her to pray for our fellowship time over lunch, she just said, "Oh Diane, you go ahead, I'll just break out in tongues praising Jesus for who He is and all He's doing!" I will never forget that!
Another memory was the time she shared during our church service. In the spirit of liberty, as she shared about her cancer situation, to all of our surprise, she took off her wig just a smilin' as big as she could, unashamed and full of sweet resignation to the will of God, hair or no hair!
Then there were the times having dinner with her, at another home or at ours. She would always have something special for my kids! She also had a wonderful "card" ministry. I have kept every card she has sent us! I ran filled with joy remembering her!
However, I do regret not making more time for this sweet elderly woman of God, especially after she was diagnosed with cancer. My husband and I wanted to go visit her and serve her communion and worship with her. We were hoping to do this soon. It just never happened. I regret that.
Time knows of racing, for time is racing by far too quickly. The Bible says my life is a breath, a mere vapor and then it is gone. So it is with those we love and are privileged to share "life" with. Next time I will "redeem the time" as Ephesians 5:16 exhorts me to and not put off something I think of have tomorrow to take care of.
Four miles worth of reminiscing about one of the spiritual giants I ran the race of faith with for a while, in spite of the regret I feel, made my run seem to fly by. "Thank you, Jeanette for all your life taught me! You helped me to see the Lord! I won't ever forget you! And, I will see you on the other side!"
Upon hearing the news and as I ran reflecting on her memory, I could see her so vividly dancing and singing praises to Jesus in His presence. So full of joy, so full of peace! I felt so happy for her too. No more suffering with the cancer that she had endured for possibly almost 2 years. No more chemo, no more pain. Just pure felicity and delight!
Earth's loss is indeed heaven's gain and though I shall never see Jeanette this side of glory, I know I will see her someday again, in a context incomparable to what my eyes behold now.
With each step I took, I thought of a few special memories of this precious saint. Most recent was the lunch at Steak-n-Shake this past fall. I thought I got together to encourage her and all the while, she was the one who encouraged me! As she ate up her chili mac, not leaving one crumb on her plate, she told me of the ministry God had given her because of the cancer. She told me of all the sick folks she would share with about the Lord and pray with as they would receive their chemo together. Her attitude was just unbelievable! When I asked her to pray for our fellowship time over lunch, she just said, "Oh Diane, you go ahead, I'll just break out in tongues praising Jesus for who He is and all He's doing!" I will never forget that!
Another memory was the time she shared during our church service. In the spirit of liberty, as she shared about her cancer situation, to all of our surprise, she took off her wig just a smilin' as big as she could, unashamed and full of sweet resignation to the will of God, hair or no hair!
Then there were the times having dinner with her, at another home or at ours. She would always have something special for my kids! She also had a wonderful "card" ministry. I have kept every card she has sent us! I ran filled with joy remembering her!
However, I do regret not making more time for this sweet elderly woman of God, especially after she was diagnosed with cancer. My husband and I wanted to go visit her and serve her communion and worship with her. We were hoping to do this soon. It just never happened. I regret that.
Time knows of racing, for time is racing by far too quickly. The Bible says my life is a breath, a mere vapor and then it is gone. So it is with those we love and are privileged to share "life" with. Next time I will "redeem the time" as Ephesians 5:16 exhorts me to and not put off something I think of have tomorrow to take care of.
Four miles worth of reminiscing about one of the spiritual giants I ran the race of faith with for a while, in spite of the regret I feel, made my run seem to fly by. "Thank you, Jeanette for all your life taught me! You helped me to see the Lord! I won't ever forget you! And, I will see you on the other side!"
Monday, January 23, 2006
Running When You Don't Feel Like It!
It's Monday. The beginning of a new week. You'd think I'd be ready for a good run after being sick last week, running only on Friday, and unable to squeeze in a run over my busy weekend. But alas, I just wasn't too motivated today.
At times like these it simply takes a good dose of sheer volition to set things straight. It's telling myself things like: "You'll feel so much better after you run!" "You'll be so glad you ran!" "You don't want to be a loser!" "You want to be a winner, right?" "Don't give in!" "Once you get going, you'll be fine!"
Most of the time, I win the battle between my mind and body. Although, on an occasion, I will give in. Today I won! This is the difference between overcomers and defeaters. They don't give in to their feelings of shirking the hard work running affords.
1 Corinthians 9:24 is a verse the Lord spoke to me strongly a few years ago. It tells me "to run in such a way as to win." Being a winner is something the Lord wants me to be. I truly believe that! Not just a winner in the discipline of running, but also a winner in the discipline of seeking Him. And sometimes it takes a good dose of sheer volition to read my Bible, pray, worship and meditate in the presence of the Lord.
So far today, I'm walking in victory, "running in such a way as to win."
At times like these it simply takes a good dose of sheer volition to set things straight. It's telling myself things like: "You'll feel so much better after you run!" "You'll be so glad you ran!" "You don't want to be a loser!" "You want to be a winner, right?" "Don't give in!" "Once you get going, you'll be fine!"
Most of the time, I win the battle between my mind and body. Although, on an occasion, I will give in. Today I won! This is the difference between overcomers and defeaters. They don't give in to their feelings of shirking the hard work running affords.
1 Corinthians 9:24 is a verse the Lord spoke to me strongly a few years ago. It tells me "to run in such a way as to win." Being a winner is something the Lord wants me to be. I truly believe that! Not just a winner in the discipline of running, but also a winner in the discipline of seeking Him. And sometimes it takes a good dose of sheer volition to read my Bible, pray, worship and meditate in the presence of the Lord.
So far today, I'm walking in victory, "running in such a way as to win."
Friday, January 20, 2006
Running and Treadmill Contentment
I was able to run today after four days of taking it easy due to sickness. To play it safe, I stayed at home and ran a 3 miler on the treadmill. Not my favorite place to run, but still I was so happy to be running. I felt pretty good, but tomorrow will be a better indicator as to whether or not I pushed too hard. Sometimes I think a good sweat, and boy do I sweat, helps release toxins out of the body. We'll see.
Anyway about running on my treadmill. Yes, it was quite a run. Where else can I run each step in a place called home sweet home. Contented to run on the treadmill down in my basement, I caught a glimpse of precious scenery I couldn't have seen outside on my regular route.
There were reminders all around me of those I hold most dear. Adam's little army men were scattered hither and thither; evidence of Ethan's recent curiousity caused him to investigate the inside of a unused computer tower that was laying on the floor; Lydia's cats came to see what I was up to; and Hannah's new 10 pounder hand weights and strength resistance bands were also in a spot indicating their recent use. Then there's the make-shift tent in the middle of the basement that Lydia and Adam made the other day. Shelves of books, books, and more books reminded me of my studious hubby as did the diet coke can sitting on the table next to couch, next to all the books.
My treadmill is near a wall where upon a collage of family pictures hang. As I ran, looking at them every now and then, I felt very content to run on my treadmill. A few years back, my children and my husband blessed me one Christmas with it! I was actually surprised!
I did like running on my treadmill today, even if it's not my favorite place to run. I was reminded of those I love dearly and content to reflect as I ran on my treadmill that there's really no place like home!
I don't know if there will be treadmills in my Heavenly Father's House. But I do know, according to John 14:1-6, that He has prepared a place for me there, and I will know of contentment far beyond my capacity to know it now. Treadmill or not.
Anyway about running on my treadmill. Yes, it was quite a run. Where else can I run each step in a place called home sweet home. Contented to run on the treadmill down in my basement, I caught a glimpse of precious scenery I couldn't have seen outside on my regular route.
There were reminders all around me of those I hold most dear. Adam's little army men were scattered hither and thither; evidence of Ethan's recent curiousity caused him to investigate the inside of a unused computer tower that was laying on the floor; Lydia's cats came to see what I was up to; and Hannah's new 10 pounder hand weights and strength resistance bands were also in a spot indicating their recent use. Then there's the make-shift tent in the middle of the basement that Lydia and Adam made the other day. Shelves of books, books, and more books reminded me of my studious hubby as did the diet coke can sitting on the table next to couch, next to all the books.
My treadmill is near a wall where upon a collage of family pictures hang. As I ran, looking at them every now and then, I felt very content to run on my treadmill. A few years back, my children and my husband blessed me one Christmas with it! I was actually surprised!
I did like running on my treadmill today, even if it's not my favorite place to run. I was reminded of those I love dearly and content to reflect as I ran on my treadmill that there's really no place like home!
I don't know if there will be treadmills in my Heavenly Father's House. But I do know, according to John 14:1-6, that He has prepared a place for me there, and I will know of contentment far beyond my capacity to know it now. Treadmill or not.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Running and Sickness
I have not run for the past four days. I've been battling a sore throat and fever. Yuck! Just when I was so eager to run out of my four mile rut! Tomorrow I may try to run 3, but we'll have to wait and see how I'm feeling. I'm trying to hydrate well and rest.
Runners do not like to get sick! At least not this one. But I have learned to listen to my body and be patient when illness strikes. Using your "wits" during times of sickness is a good thing. It also shows respect and good stewardship to the physical aspect of our being.
1 Corinthians 6:19 reminds us that our body does not belong to us and is not our own. Rather, it is the "temple of the Holy Spirit who is in us, who we have from God." Thus we should treat them with care and realize they are not invincible, even though at times we may think they are. There is a time to push them. But there is also a time to give them rest. And when sickness comes knocking at the door, that is one of those times to give it rest.
I've been resting with the hopes that tomorrow I can put on my running shoes and feel the ground under my footsteps flowing to the rhythm of inhaling and exhaling. I like those sounds! They are sweet!
Runners do not like to get sick! At least not this one. But I have learned to listen to my body and be patient when illness strikes. Using your "wits" during times of sickness is a good thing. It also shows respect and good stewardship to the physical aspect of our being.
1 Corinthians 6:19 reminds us that our body does not belong to us and is not our own. Rather, it is the "temple of the Holy Spirit who is in us, who we have from God." Thus we should treat them with care and realize they are not invincible, even though at times we may think they are. There is a time to push them. But there is also a time to give them rest. And when sickness comes knocking at the door, that is one of those times to give it rest.
I've been resting with the hopes that tomorrow I can put on my running shoes and feel the ground under my footsteps flowing to the rhythm of inhaling and exhaling. I like those sounds! They are sweet!
Sunday, January 15, 2006
Running and Race Decisions
I've been in a 4 mile running rut the past few months. But there's nothing like the start of a new year to think about breaking out of the rut by making some race decisions. My biggest decision will be whether to run my 2nd 1/2 marathon this April. I must make the decision within the next couple of weeks so I can be on target with my training plan.
Today as I ran I knew that if I make the decision to go for the 1/2 again it would at least rescue me out of my 4 mile rut. Training for a race of that distance offers great accountibility. Your milage simply has to steadily increase. No staying at the same ol' same ol'. Today I didn't feel too bad and it makes the decision to say yes a little easier. But I know tomorrow could be a different story causing mental indecisiveness about the thought of going that long. A 1/2 is quite a feat for me. Today I feel like making the decision to go for it, but until I register and pay the fee it's not a done deal.
Decisions! Decisions! Life is just full of them. Even in the spiritual race of faith. Every day I must choose to make those decisions which will honor the Lord Jesus. And as I look to my training plan, the Bible, I will keep from not only making the wrong decisions, but I will stay out of a rut. Increase or growth, for the better as a Christian, or for the distance as a runner, means making wise decisions. Decisions that mean hard work, diligent training, and sacrifice. Am I willing to pay the price? Ultimately, that will be the decision to be made in both races.
My deepest desire far more important than running a 1/2 marathon or not is to always respond like Joshua when he made this proposal to the people of Israel -- "...choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve...but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." (Joshua 24:15)
Today as I ran I knew that if I make the decision to go for the 1/2 again it would at least rescue me out of my 4 mile rut. Training for a race of that distance offers great accountibility. Your milage simply has to steadily increase. No staying at the same ol' same ol'. Today I didn't feel too bad and it makes the decision to say yes a little easier. But I know tomorrow could be a different story causing mental indecisiveness about the thought of going that long. A 1/2 is quite a feat for me. Today I feel like making the decision to go for it, but until I register and pay the fee it's not a done deal.
Decisions! Decisions! Life is just full of them. Even in the spiritual race of faith. Every day I must choose to make those decisions which will honor the Lord Jesus. And as I look to my training plan, the Bible, I will keep from not only making the wrong decisions, but I will stay out of a rut. Increase or growth, for the better as a Christian, or for the distance as a runner, means making wise decisions. Decisions that mean hard work, diligent training, and sacrifice. Am I willing to pay the price? Ultimately, that will be the decision to be made in both races.
My deepest desire far more important than running a 1/2 marathon or not is to always respond like Joshua when he made this proposal to the people of Israel -- "...choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve...but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." (Joshua 24:15)
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Running With a Friend
Through out my life and interest in running I have had an occasional running buddy. They have come and gone and changed along the road of life. There is however a constant Friend who I have continually relied upon to be there with me as I run. And He is. Jesus is my constant running Friend and I am grateful for His presence with me.
Today as I ran I set before Him a myriad of things that were on my mind. To run and pray with my Friend is like finding the fountain of youth. I always return with a sense of peace and confidence knowing that my life is truly in His secure hands. I am encouraged and energized to take on the challenges, the duties and responsibilities, the missions and callings, the known and unknown that are all a part of the package of life.
I do have a wonderful Friend in Jesus and there is indeed no better running buddy than Him! Song of Solomon 1:4 is one of my life verses. It says, "Draw me after you and let us run together!" And so my Friend draws me and off we go, on a run together.
Today as I ran I set before Him a myriad of things that were on my mind. To run and pray with my Friend is like finding the fountain of youth. I always return with a sense of peace and confidence knowing that my life is truly in His secure hands. I am encouraged and energized to take on the challenges, the duties and responsibilities, the missions and callings, the known and unknown that are all a part of the package of life.
I do have a wonderful Friend in Jesus and there is indeed no better running buddy than Him! Song of Solomon 1:4 is one of my life verses. It says, "Draw me after you and let us run together!" And so my Friend draws me and off we go, on a run together.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Running in January Sunshine
It was a glorious sunny day with temperatures in the mid 40's. As soon as I could, I put on my running shoes and out the door I went. Lately it has been overcast and dreary. And since there's nothing like a sunny day in the middle of winter to woo your affections outdoors, I simply couldn't resist.
The sky was so blue and as I ran my 4 mile route, I thought about the privilege to run in the sun. The light offered by it's rays makes my path clear to see all the things that could be a potential threat to the goal I have before me. I can see the small pebble, the tiny acorn, the pinecone or twig, the uneven pavement, the round little hardened cranberry, the patch of wet leaves, and even the things left behind by both man's best friend or the geese which live by the lakes along my path. Just a step on anyone of these things could cause the ol' ankle to roll. It's happened before and it hurts. When it's dark out, these things remain hidden.
The sunlight also offers a friend to run with -- my shadow. Today, depending on the direction I ran, she was on my right, then on my left, sometimes in front of me and a few times disappearing behind me. But I knew she was there -- a kind of group run thing happening. It was fun to see my ponytail bounce up and down with each stride, the arms pumping forward and back, the shoulders moving to and fro. I was glad to have her with me!
Nearing the end of my run, I passed the second lake on my course and enjoyed seeing the sunbeams reflect on it's surface. It was truly beautiful and for a moment it helped me to forget that by that time I was feeling the run as I neared the 4 mile mark. The bright sun's reflection blinked like white shiny lights on a Christmas tree. It was beautiful. As I ran by, the reflection grew smaller and smaller until at last I saw the last individual light go out. I wouldn't have seen that without some sunshine!
With every step I took, I saw the scattered pinhead crystals sparkle in the pavement. There were so many. I just never knew. It is said in the Bible that the streets of heaven are paved in pure gold. I imagined all those tiny crystals I saw as my feet pounded the pavement glimmering in the cement because of the sunlight were tightly fitted together, like those gold streets must be. How wonderful to run on that! Someday, if we can continue to run in heaven, I guess I'll find out. For now, I'll run in the light God created here on earth being reminded all the while what His Son said in John 8:12 -- "I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life."
As I warmed down with a slow walk back to the house, I noticed one of my neighbors out in his yard and said to him, "Gotta love this January sunshine!" To which he replied, "You bet ya, you just can't help it!"
The sky was so blue and as I ran my 4 mile route, I thought about the privilege to run in the sun. The light offered by it's rays makes my path clear to see all the things that could be a potential threat to the goal I have before me. I can see the small pebble, the tiny acorn, the pinecone or twig, the uneven pavement, the round little hardened cranberry, the patch of wet leaves, and even the things left behind by both man's best friend or the geese which live by the lakes along my path. Just a step on anyone of these things could cause the ol' ankle to roll. It's happened before and it hurts. When it's dark out, these things remain hidden.
The sunlight also offers a friend to run with -- my shadow. Today, depending on the direction I ran, she was on my right, then on my left, sometimes in front of me and a few times disappearing behind me. But I knew she was there -- a kind of group run thing happening. It was fun to see my ponytail bounce up and down with each stride, the arms pumping forward and back, the shoulders moving to and fro. I was glad to have her with me!
Nearing the end of my run, I passed the second lake on my course and enjoyed seeing the sunbeams reflect on it's surface. It was truly beautiful and for a moment it helped me to forget that by that time I was feeling the run as I neared the 4 mile mark. The bright sun's reflection blinked like white shiny lights on a Christmas tree. It was beautiful. As I ran by, the reflection grew smaller and smaller until at last I saw the last individual light go out. I wouldn't have seen that without some sunshine!
With every step I took, I saw the scattered pinhead crystals sparkle in the pavement. There were so many. I just never knew. It is said in the Bible that the streets of heaven are paved in pure gold. I imagined all those tiny crystals I saw as my feet pounded the pavement glimmering in the cement because of the sunlight were tightly fitted together, like those gold streets must be. How wonderful to run on that! Someday, if we can continue to run in heaven, I guess I'll find out. For now, I'll run in the light God created here on earth being reminded all the while what His Son said in John 8:12 -- "I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life."
As I warmed down with a slow walk back to the house, I noticed one of my neighbors out in his yard and said to him, "Gotta love this January sunshine!" To which he replied, "You bet ya, you just can't help it!"
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Running resolution for 2006
One running resolution or goal I made for 2006 was to "run" into the blogisphere with my own running blog. So, here goes...
Today's weather could've been tolerable, but I choose to run on my treadmill instead. As I ran my usual 3 miles listening to one of my daughter's cd's, I thought about what I would write on my first running blog. It is this simple sentiment - running is a gift.
I am blessed to have this gift in my life. And the older I get, the more grateful I am for the benefits I receive. It is indeed the gift that keeps on giving.
Today's weather could've been tolerable, but I choose to run on my treadmill instead. As I ran my usual 3 miles listening to one of my daughter's cd's, I thought about what I would write on my first running blog. It is this simple sentiment - running is a gift.
I am blessed to have this gift in my life. And the older I get, the more grateful I am for the benefits I receive. It is indeed the gift that keeps on giving.
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Me and my dear friend in Christ
