For the first time in over a year (if not longer) I ran four miles with no real pain in my foot. To be honest, I half think it happened by accident. I woke up, feeling good, motivated to run. So I put my music in my ears and hit the pavement. The route I chose to go was deliberate, but I think for a different reason. I knew if I went out to a larger perimeter, I would have no choice but to run all the way back, which inadvertently increased the mileage. Tricking my brain, you see. I only stopped once or twice, if I felt my foot needed a moment to breathe, since I am supposed to be easing myself back into the mileage. Gave myself a little grace. But it felt great.

“Running is play, for even if we try hard to do well at it, it is a relief from everyday cares.” Jim Fixx

Many would wholeheartedly disagree with this statement. I, however, agree with it. Running serves many purposes for me. It is useful when I need to blow off steam, it is helpful when I need space to think about something, and it is especially useful (like the above quote states) when I just need a break from life’s seemingly endless tugs.

When I run, I can’t take my computer outside to design something. When I run, I can’t carry textbooks so I can study. When I run, I usually don’t take my phone, thus giving me a true break from media.

It’s the most readily available escape, and I am truly thankful to God that I am finally back in a place where I can run my heart out and not be in any true pain, or not be making my injury worse. 

Glory, glory.