Why do you run? I get asked quite often this question. I have lots of reasons why, which some have changed as life has changed…
It makes me a better wife and mother. It is time for me to clear my head. To be alone. To listen to Him and talk to Him and to listen some more. It is a de-stresser for me. A healthy escape if you will, sometimes even for just 30 min will do the trick! I run so I can eat whatever I want. I like to eat. I run because I really do enjoy it. I like the challenge. I like to push myself. I like to sweat and that feeling of being totally exhausted but so energized at the same time at the end of a run. I run because I love to hear my kids ask “How was your run mommy? How many miles did you run?” I run so they can see their mom at a race persevering and not giving up. I love it when they ask if I won the race. They are always so surprised and confused at the same time when I say no. Someday, someday…
These are all reasons I run. But this week I read a new favorite blog of mine (the entire blog is great! check it out!) and she shared a reason why she runs that I have never thought of before but would like to adopt as one of mine as well. Lara at To Overflowing said this about running.
Ultimately, I run for Him. I exercise for Him.
As much as depends upon me, I strengthen this
physical body of mine that He might use it for
as long as He wills. A living sacrifice.
Wow. Isn’t that good? An eternal perspective in running. Yes I want to run for all the perks it brings me but what a motivator to run for Him! So that I can run this crazy race of life with strength and endurance that will take me to the finish. To Him. As Lara mentions, God can use anyone, no matter your physical strength and endurance. He has no limits. But as for me I want to run at my best. And being a runner helps me not just physically but in all aspects of life.
So that is why I do it.
Aub, you are so encouraging. I am training for my first Half Marathon so I could not have read this blog at a better time. I get discouraged sometimes when I am running because I am SO aware of my incompetencies. Thanks for sharing. Keep going girl!
Quite a timely post in my life, Aubrey! I’ve recently started running again and my attitude about it is changing with every step I take. I no longer dread it but look forward to it. I’ll be posting something about it soon and I may just borrow bits of what you said.
XO
Aubrey, I love this! I had to stop by when I saw your Twitter bio. So glad to connect with you and hope to get to know you better!
Thanks Christine! I’m glad we’ve connected too! Looking forward to getting to know you better:)
Catherine! Love that you have put the running shoes back on and are enjoying it! Yes, keep it up girl!
Linds! Way to go for training for your first 1/2 that is so exciting! I’m happy my post encouraged you. keep it up girl and let me know how the race goes!