My Safe Haven

As I left class last Thursday I found it interesting the assignment given while we were there - place we are familiar with. For me it wasn't necessarily a place but something I do that makes me feel in control. It is my ability to run, hence the name I came up with for my blog address.

Since high school running has given me a type of satisfaction for my own soul. I feel as if I have total control on what I do and the decision will only affect me. It gives me a piece of mind that puts me in a place that no one can touch and provides me a sense of security and sanity. I am able to do my own thinking - it is my alone (and sane time) away from everything that seems to burden me or bother me at that time. I have found it to be a type of salvation for me.

Why running? I could just as easily sit down and read a book or have a drink. Not sure if either one of those would give me that closure or self-satisfaction that I find in running. I think at times it is my escape from reality. I am enclosed in this little world of mine. I run by myself without any music or technology of any kind attached to me. I find this advantageous because I am able to be completely aware of my surroundings. I can easily focus in on my mood and create a that safe haven of mine that no one can touch - I am at peace with myself.

So...in looking back I guess the place I'm familiar with is nature and the ability to search out my own desire to be complete. Looking back on how many years I have been running there is a sense of pride and accomplishment that comes to mind. I always wanted to run a marathon and with some of the directions and paths I chose in my life it was postponed. After getting married and having two children it was time, once again, to move forward and find that "whole" for me. I finally gave myself a 40 year old birthday present and ran my first marathon. Training was intense but the outcome and the way I felt after was one of utter happiness and pride. I was able to once again prove to myself that I have the ability to do anything once my mind is set and I am willing to do it. I have run other half and full marathons since then. My next goal - train and qualify for Boston. A dream that I have and hope to fulfill - a new place that I could become familiar with.