We only get what we give

My (running) life after Hope Express has been a struggle. With the fortunate gift of the week off following HE, I gave myself a much needed break from running. That being said, it's been really hard getting out there since then. While at first I felt the usual symptoms of PRD (post-race depression), I quickly realized that my sole reason for running was no longer there..and I had had a really, really motivating reason to run! It stunk.

It was exceptionally beautiful for early March today and yet still, it was a push to get myself going! As soon as I took my first steps though, I was thrilled to be out there. My immediate reason for running has no doubt changed, but that doesn't change my feelings about running and, more importantly, the feelings I get from running.

It seemed perfect that the first few minutes of the run were soundtracked by a new playlist favorite, the New Radicals' "You Get What You Give." The song reminds me how true it is that in order to get all that running has to offer, you need to give (i.e. get off the couch, choose running over more exciting things like sitting on the couch, etc). If I want to keep getting the feel goods from running, I need to keep at it. Seems obvious, I know, but it's yet another minor epiphany.

Anyway, when I was still on the high of Hope Express, I carried through on my intention to register for my next half-marathon - running the inaugural Lansing Half on April 22! I think I've gone through the natural post-event mourning stages, and with all the incredible memories and moments stored in my heart, I am ready to move onto the next event...if for no other reason than I just have to. The love, dedication, and incredible hearts of those I had the honor of running with and running for during Hope Express will fuel me on some many of the miles that lay ahead of me. I am hopeful and confident that I will have the honor of running for the reason behind HE again - the kids - in some capacity, but I need to honest about what I'm running for...and right now, it's okay that I'm just running for me.