The Rhythm of Life

I’m currently reading The Essential Sheehan, which is a compilation of articles written by running guru Dr. George Sheehan in the 1970s and 1980s. Dr. Sheehan’s articles offer a philosophical take on what running provided for him mentally and emotionally and it has caused me to do the same. You see, I run, but I don’t consider myself a runner. I feel this way because every day it’s a struggle to get myself geared up to go out and run. But when I think of why I run, I come up with a number of reasons. For example, I started running because I like to eat so it up until recently I considered it a necessary evil. However, in reading this book, I realize there are a lot of more substantial reasons I run.

1. I run because I’m looking for myself.
2. I run because once I push past the whole not wanting to run, I feel alive.
3. I run because it brings me a sense of peace.
4. I run because it’s the only time my mind seems to focus on the simplest things like placing one foot in front of the other, breathing, the sun shinning, the breeze, God.
5. I run because I want to know what my body is capable of.
6. I run because I want to know what God is capable of.
7. I run to outrun my fears and anxieties.
8. I run because I can.
9. I run because I’m not a runner, but I want to be.