Gratitude
This morning I had the opportunity to take my workout to the streets. Well, technically, I warmed up on the street before hitting the track for a 30 minute tempo run. I am at the end of my half marathon training, a long and arduous journey. I mentioned in another post -
“I didn’t train for the marathon; the marathon trained me. ”
No matter the distance, the training is what always prepared me for the ebb and flow of life. I took some hard dips this year, followed by steep as shit climbs. Some days, I didn't know if I could finish the journey; thankfully, I'm typing these words today. I know now, and BELIEVE, that I had to go through this. I only wish the best for those in my rearview mirror; just like a good workout, or a bad race, I've learned from that and need to keep moving forward.
I'm thankful for my legs and the way they carried me around the track. I soaked in the cool air; it scorched the belly of my lungs, only to ignite a fire. The burn tightened my chest, but I countered the discomfort by lifting my torso. The pace, maintained by my partner, quickened on the back half of the track. With a verbal cue I pulled back; something I usually rage against. Ten minutes to go, I shifted my gaze further ahead, only to be met by the zone - flow. The far corners of my eyes went black with a gradual fade to blur; only a pinhead size of crispness was available. Put a fork in me, this bird is DONE. I finished strong, with a few tears that refused to fall.
I repeat workouts like that a few times a week, but they are done in heels, and sweatpants, grocery carts, homework, wardrobe meltdowns (mine and the wee birds), hot pans, sharp knives, professional words, mascara, friends, haters, parents, siblings, wind, rain, sunshine. I could break the internet with the list. I can say, TODAY, that I am grateful for all of this; the beautiful mess that is me. I can also say that I am so grateful for YOU; you never left my side, when I needed you most. You might not agree with my choices or my crass language, but that's what makes us wonderful.
Thank you.
