SSG 10k Training Log: I Run Because....
SSG 10k Training Log: I Run Because....WIBW Blog Listing
SSG 10k Training Log: I Run Because....
Topic Author: Melissa Brunner
Posted: 1:49 PM Jul 2, 2008
Replies Posted: 5 comments
Save Email Print
Recent Blog Topics
Font Size:

In her song, "I Run for Life," Melissa Ethridge says:

I run for hope
I run to feel
I run for the truth
For all that is real
I run for your mother your sister your wife
I run for you and me my friend I run for life

The song is about her experience with breast cancer, and she wrote the song for a Race for the Cure fundraiser. As I've been logging more miles in preparation for my first 10k at the Sunflower State Games, I've had plenty of time to think! Putting one foot in front of the other for seven miles Sunday, my wandered to why it is that I run. It's a question I'll get from time to time in exchanges that usually go something like this - "I ran five miles this morning." "Why?" So in no particular order as some of the reasons I run:

*I like ice cream...a lot!

*I don't like it when my pants get uncomfortably tight

*Pain is weakness leaving the body (ok - read that on a t-shirt somewhere!)

*Sweat makes me feel strong

*It's my "me" time

*Wildlife sightings - I've beenthisclose to little fawns, bunnies, fox, even snakes!

*Finally... this one's a bit deep or sappy or whatever you want to call it... but I've shared here before how I survived being abducted in college by kicking my way out of the trunk of my car. The next couple days, my glutes and legs ached. The first time I ran after that, I felt those same muscles working. Now, when I run and feel the burning in those muscles, it reminds me I'm strong enough to overcome more than I'll (hopefully) ever know.

 

Why do you run? or bike? or swim? or garden? Whether it's silly or serious, let's inspire each other!

 

SSG 10k Training Log: On the Surface

 

SSG 10k Training Log: Going the Distance

 

SSG 10k Training Log: Handling the Heat

SSG 10k Training Log: Hit the Hills!

Sunflower State Games: My New Goal

Post Your Comments
First Name:
Location:
Enter Comments: characters left
Email (optional):
By posting this comment I have read and agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy:
You must agree to the Terms of Service to continue.
Read Comments
Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.
  • by Don Location: Manhattan on Jul 4, 2008 at 01:17 PM
    Running is unconditionally great for the body, the soul, and the mind, right? Almost, but not quite. In fact, there may be nothing that can't cause harm when taken to an extreme, even the most benign or beneficial elements. The sacred domain of exercise is not protected from this universal truth. When a commitment to exercise crosses the line to dependency and compulsion, it can create physical, social, and psychological havoc for those among us who appear outwardly to be the very fittest. Runners are particularly vulnerable.{Carol Newman} People, like to take the fun" out of everything. With Respect" & Best wishes.

    RESPONSE: Believe me, Don, I wouldn't keep with it if I didn't still find it fun! Have a great 4th!

    Reply [ Report Abuse ]
  • by Barb Location: Topeka on Jul 4, 2008 at 12:43 AM
    Melissa, You have a great reason to run this marathon and can look back on your accomplishments past and present. You are a survivor and will do well in this race!!!

    RESPONSE: Thanks for the support, Barb. It's a 10k - not quite ready for marathon distance - maybe someday!!

    Reply [ Report Abuse ]
  • by Matt Location: Marysville on Jul 2, 2008 at 09:37 PM
    i dont run, play ball,(ok i play tennis and soccer,) but i DO swim, i do it cause its really fun and it help my breath excersizes.

    RESPONSE: Having fun is as good a reason as any!

    Reply [ Report Abuse ]
  • by Chelsey on Jul 2, 2008 at 08:28 PM
    Wow, I did not know that about you. That makes you even more of an admirable woman. You are definitely strong, and courageous!
    Reply [ Report Abuse ]
  • by Don on Jul 2, 2008 at 08:14 PM
    You are a real HERO and a survivor in my book. My work allows me to come in contact with individuals who have, just like you, survived an awfully frightening experience and I am allowed to teach them real coping skills and that in turn allows them to come to grips and move on with their lives. Keep up the good work, Melissa :)

    RESPONSE: I think they are skills all of us have - we just haven't discovered them!

    Reply [ Report Abuse ]
5 - 15 - 1 - 0