WARNING: A post full of gratitude follows!
photo credit: avard woolavar
After writing the post about my lack of motivation for running, I shared it far and wide. Actually, I reached out to my people in the running community and asked for advice. I find that by being open and honest about how I’m feeling allows me to receive positive feedback and also address issues that others may feel but are afraid to express. I must tell you the outpouring of support that I received was amazing. My good friend and author of Run Like A Mother and Train Like A Mother Dimty actually posted my feelings on the RLAM facebook page. Approximately 80 women – only one that I’ve met in person – commented with support, advice and encouragement. I’m not surprised. Two years ago when I posted in the group about my first half-marathon I received support and actually had a chance to meet the dynamic duo of Sarah and Dimity in San Francisco. The reactions to my post in the RLAM community lifted my spirits beyond measure!
I also posted in other running groups I belong to: Black Girls Run!, Running Friends From Around the World and the National Black Marathoners Association (just a few of the groups I belong to). Yes, I’m generally a solo runner but I do embrace the community of runners from all walks of life and luckily, they embrace me too. I felt totally showered in love both in these groups and of course here on my blog. After reading the comments I decided that I will indeed press on and run the marathon. I am considering adopting the Jeff Galloway method so that I have scheduled walk breaks and get right back to running. I also will be finding new routes but most importantly scheduling my runs with groups or my friend Lorraine who I know will push me.
Most importantly, I need to say that all of this positive energy inspired me to forge ahead. After “running” my 14.2 miles in the morning, I went to CrossFit in the afternoon. I may have finished my workout last during CrossFit but I “got her done” and of all the athletes there only I knew how much work I’d already put in physically. I did however have to share my running with the Coach because I seriously don’t want him to think that was my absolute best. It was the best for what I had left in my energy bank but I know I can do better!
All smiles after completing CrossFit – do you see the sweat dripping??
Ultimately, I just want to extend a huge THANK YOU. First to the members of my running community who support me and second to those out there who don’t run, maybe won’t ever run but simply have my back and provided me with resources that can help me reach the finish line! Again, thank you! This journey is not always easy but with friends that have my back I KNOW I can do anything!
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
It happens to everyone. Just recognize how far you have come and how amazing you are. You’ll get the motivation back – PROMISE!
You are so very welcome. Check in sometimes if you do not run with Lorraine and let us know how you are doing.
You are amazing Renee and an inspiration to all of us. I use the Jeff Galloway method and always have- I love it and most times,I’m feeling pretty okay/happy at the end of my long runs. You will have to get use to it though since you have been running mainly and adjust but you can do it. The 1 thing Jeff emphasizes is using the run walk from the beginning….. you can read all about it and jeffgalloway.com. Good luck!