Last week I ran a Half Marathon–a virtual Half Marathon because the Skedaddle race in SF was cancelled due to COVID-19. It was the furthest I have run in the last 15 months. I was not sure how I would do, both physically and mentally. My health issues took a lot out of me last year, and again, both physically, and for sure mentally. I did not know how I would do, or feel, or if I could make it. Sarah rode her bike along side me the whole way, to keep me company, as she tells me. I think it was more she was going to be sure I was going to do OK with this. She and some of the others in our run group ran it the day before, and of course, following social distancing as well. Our daughter was one of them, who also set a personal best for herself the day before mine. I held off because I had a sore calf, and did not know it I should, or could. Amazingly, everything went fine, and it was a perfect day for weather.
I am definitely feeling like I am alive again, and getting stronger. I am not ready to be done running. It is my escape, and time to think, and when we can all get back to running together again, it is a time to socialize with friends.
Just go! No music, no distractions. Just running with my own thoughts, and some discussion with Sarah on this run.
I finished in 2:04:32. I did not think I would be breaking 2 1/2 hours, and I almost broke 2! I started out easy, and then gradually kept picking it up. It usually takes me a while to get in a groove to begin with, and this day was no exception. Physically I was able to do it, but I think, and even more important, my mind could handle it. I proved to myself I still could do what I love to do. It has been a slow process, but I continue to keep improving. What more could I ask for?
Boy is this the truth! I will never take it for granted again. We are all human, and cannot control everything. Many of us do not get second chances to do what we love to do. Many of us don’t even get second chances with life. Keep going each day, for tomorrow is not guaranteed. Don’t leave behind any unfulfilled dreams or goals.
Go find yourself! Whether running, walking, or other activity. Just keep moving! Utilize your time. “Choose wisely!” Never lose sight of your dreams/goals. There will be setbacks along the way, but don’t let them control your future. It may take longer to get there, but in the end, you will be stronger, both physically and mentally, to take on anything in life that comes along. Personal goals are different at this point compared to what they were when I was younger. Times achieved with the runs still provide me some degree of improvement for me, but the ultimate achievement is that I can still participate, regardless of how fast I may be anymore. I had those days already.
Now, for me, it is more important to see those sunrises on those early morning runs, or the sunsets on those late evening walks. I have to admit, I am taking the time to appreciate them more often. I am seeing things in a different light. They have always been there, but I have just been too busy to pay attention. I think that could be said for all of us. Slow it down, take the time to look, and appreciate what you see. This health experience has helped me to do that, so not all things bad are completely bad. Look for the positives in life. They truly have more meaning. Keep focused on that while you keep going. Keep moving everybody!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day of New Streak: #399
