Dear Running,

Remember the time I used to hate you? I'd find every excuse in the book to get out running. You were too tough, too challenging, too painful. I resented you for it. I'm sorry for all of the hateful words I used toward you. I realize now that I didn't give you a chance.

I can't remember if it was the thrill of finishing my first 5K race or the sense of accomplishment of finally being able to run a mile without walking, but somewhere down the road, I realized you weren't all that bad. It may have taken me a while to learn to love you, but now that I do, I can't imagine my life without you. Without you, I wouldn't be where I am today.

Thank you for being there for me when life gets tough. You help relieve stress, you give me a place to escape mentally, and you help me recognize that I am strong.

Thank you for the good runs that make me feel unstoppable.

Thankyou for the hard runs that challenge me to keep moving despite any bumps in the road. As in life - not everything will go as planned and you've taught me to be able to tackle any obstacle that may come my way.

Thank you for teaching me to never give up and to always put one foot in front of the other.

Thank you for allowing me to enjoy sunrises, sunsets, and all of the gifts nature gives us daily from a different perspective. You allow me to appreciate God's gift of living in this beautiful world while appreciating the gift of being physically active.

Thank you for teaching me self-discipline. Whether it's wanting to run a new distance, hitting a new PR, or reaching any other goal in life, I've learned that by continuing to push through the weaknesses and the temptations to give up, you can get to where you want to be; it just takes time and persistence.

Thank you for the motivating and inspiring community. You've brought together a band of people all over the world who, without judgment, give encouraging advice. People who are always willing to help others be the best that they can be. The running community that you've brought together is like no other.

Thank you for always having new challenges to overcome. Whether it be a new distance or a better time, you constantly have me wanting to strive for more.

Thank you for showing me that I am capable of more than I could ever have imagined.

And - thank you for helping me to be the best version of myself, physically, mentally, and emotionally. If I had known years ago how much you would change my life, I would have thought you were crazy. But - you have changed me for the better and for that I couldn't be more thankful!

Sincerely,

A Runner