An Unwanted Running Sabbatical

So far, 2007 has proved to be a year of injuries. First there was a hamstring problem in January. Then I had issues with my right knee - an issue the doctor thought was "runner's knee syndrome." Both resolved themselves quite nicely. Unfortunately, now I'm dealing with a problem with my left knee. It seems a lot worse than what was going on with my right knee a couple months ago. I went to the doctor and he is suspecting torn cartilage. Hmm... never had this before. This morning I had an MRI and though the technician couldn't give me specific details, he did see fluid build up where there wasn't supposed to be any. He said he really couldn't tell me anything else and so I have to wait until I see my doctor this coming week.

Hence, I am on an unwanted running sabbatical. But, I'm trying to be accepting without becoming too crabby. Anyone keeping up with my running through out the years would think I must be getting pretty good about turning in my running shoes because every now and then it seems that is exactly what the Lord allows and calls me to do. It usually becomes something that the Lord uses for good and I am able to concentrate on other projects or things He would have me do. I've already been getting a project done I probably wouldn't have started yet if I wasn't on this "no running" stretch. So, once again, I'm learning to let go, let God, hand over my running shoes and let Him put back into my hands something else.

I am hoping to do some swimming though which would be a good thing if I can muster up the courage to do some laps. I haven't swam laps in over a year. Since last summer I didn't train for a triathlon, I didn't do any laps. So, it will be interesting to see how I feel in the water again. I did go ahead and buy me some new goggles and a swim cap, so I am somewhat serious and determined to get wet! Well, we'll see what the doctor says about my left knee and what the prognosis may be.