Sunday I was supposed to run my longest run yet of the training plan - 6 whole miles. I had just run 4 a few days prior so I honestly wasn't too nervous. Well, things came up and the 6 miles didn't happen, so my plan was so lace up immediately after work yesterday so I could enjoy the nearly 70 degree weather (hallelujah!). I got home from work, and did just that. Shorts and a tee, it was glorious! I get about 2 miles into my run and I was already insanely exhausted, what in the world was happening?! Then all of a sudden I had a severe sharp pain coming from the inside of my right shin, I had to stop. I was almost in tears...1) due to the actual pain I was feeling, and 2) I was so disappointed in myself.
I get home, Caleb begins to encourage me..."we're gonna KILL this half marathon, don't you worry", etc, etc, etc...he's a gem, seriously. I keep moping around, drowning in my own self pity...and won't shut up about these unfinished 4 miles. I decided some me-time, and a bath full of Epsom salt would do the trick...and boy, did it! I was able to walk around an hour later no problem... but even though I felt better, I was still really annoyed with myself.
{back story} Lately, Caleb and I have been opening the windows when we're home from work because the weather has been so fantastic, and the sun stays out much later than usual. For whatever reason, I got up from the couch, and happened to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets I'd ever seen from our back porch. We live in a complex that has a gorgeous lake, and I never take advantage of it.
It was in that moment that I realized...life is about so much more than a silly run. I have no right to be THIS upset over an unfinished workout. I tried my hardest, and that's all I could do. My leg pain is so insignificant compared to other things in life, and I need to remember that more often. I'm thankful for what I DO have. Sure, its okay to be sad about my run, but not for too long.
I've got a husband who cheers me on, even when I fail...
I've got two jobs that I rock at...
I've got friends all over the world who would do anything for me...
I can make a mean grilled cheese...
but most importantly? I'm a good person, and that should be enough.
Time to tackle those unfinished 4 miles tonight. I CAN do this!
Yes you can do it!! (flex your muscles, if that helps! ;)
ReplyDeleteYou got this girl! Knock the socks off those 4 miles tonight :)
ReplyDeleteHe is so encouraging and that is so special. I know you cherish him so much!
ReplyDeleteWay to go, pretty girl! You're right - life is too short and too tough to sweat the small stuff. It's okay to be constructively critical of ourselves, but it's all about perspective! That sunset is GORGEOUS and now I'm craving grilled cheese...
ReplyDeleteLet's be honest- making a mean grilled cheese is a dang good skill to have in life!! Gorgeous sunset and way to shift your perspective on the situation! Good look with those 4 miles :)
ReplyDeleteI felt the same way last night when I laid on the couch instead of cleaning. Totally beating myself up! But you are so right, girlfriend. Also, that sunset last night was killer. I kept staring at it out the window during dinner.
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous sunset! Wow. You're so right. Running is silly compared to the gloriousness of the sun :) And all runs are different. You could go out and feel 100% better next time! It's weird like that.
ReplyDeleteThat sunset is so pretty! What a nice view off your back porch! :) Running is weird and has ups and downs but you just gotta' keep rolling with it and know that its helping you get better. (Hm, maybe I should take my own advice?!)
ReplyDeleteYou go girl!!!! And puh-leaseeee make me one of your grilled cheeses!!! Mm!!
ReplyDeleteWahooo! Everyone has a bad running day every now and then!
ReplyDeleteThat sunset picture is gorgeous! I never get sick of seeing a pretty sunset :) You're SO SO SO right about all of this! These past few years I just keep thinking about how much running has taught me. And I think all of us runners go through this. I haven't meet one that has never been sidelined by something, had a bad run or race. But just like in life, you have to keep moving forward! Keep chasing the next GOOD moment :)
ReplyDeleteThose moments are the best. I love when I'm moping and then bam...something smacks me in the face to realize that I am just so darn lucky. I am so glad that sunset caught your eye friend. The fact that you were even out there running is HUGE. Proud of you and all that you are accomplishing. You've got this.
ReplyDeleteYou can do this!!! And having moments created by God like the one you had puts everything back into perspective...we are lucky and blessed little ladies...regardless of our workouts!! Don't stop....get it...get it!! :)
ReplyDeleteBeautiful sunset! I am glad you were able to catch that. You are a fantastic person and it is more than enough. :)
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