Perspective from a Total Stranger

First of all, my thoughts and prayers go out to all those who were affected by last week's events.  I don't know what else I can really say about it so I'm not going to say much.

I went through a roller coster of emotions last week.  I was pissed that there would be people out there that would ruin such a positive event and shatter the innocence of the event.  I'm relieved that they have been caught.  I'm thankful to all the volunteers, bystanders and first responders who rushed to the aid of those in need.  Lastly, I'm happy that the running community really has really come together to host events and collect donations for the various charity groups.

Today a lot of running stores and groups all over the country held runs in solidarity for those affected by the events in Boston.  I was able to tweak my schedule and attend a 2.62 mile run at a local store close to home.  There was a good turnout and some past and present Boston marathoners also participated in the run.

As for me, I have really been struggling to find any sort of motivation post the marathon.  I managed to finish the Big Sur Half, which was a surprise to me since I really did not do much leading up to it.  My workouts from November on have pretty much come in spurts.  I'll get hot and workout for a while and then I'll fall off the grid again.  Needless to say, my runs are shorter and my pace is slower.  Certainly not a good sign.  I have the Soldier Field 10 Miler on May 25th and the North Shore Half Marathon on June 2nd.  So, I have to get moving NOW.  Last week's runs were 2 Tuesday, 5 Thursday and 2 Friday.  The 5 mile run was somewhat tough due to the inactivity, but at least I completed it.

I ran with a man named Terry who really put things into perspective for me.  He's in his 50s and has run 7 marathons, completed many triathlons and an Ironman.  Very impressive!  I talked to him about my marathon disappointment and how I've sort of fallen off the grid with my running.  I can't pinpoint why my motivation is lacking, but it just is.

He told me that I have to basically cut the bullshit and get over my mental hurdles.  I can't keep beating myself up for not achieving my goal time.  I have to push through the times where I just want to lay around doing nothing.  A 10 minute run is better than no run at all.  He talked to me about how important is it to incorporate cross-training, core work and strength training into my workouts so I can be a better runner.  He reminded me that I should be proud of myself for finishing a full marathon since not a lot of people can say that they have done that.  He told me that I have potential to be a good runner if I want it.  Everything he said is true and I have to get out of my mental rut and get out there.  I really do love running (we're trying to get back together now) and I want to improve my marathon time.

Hope everyone got at least a run or two in for Boston and a happy running week to all!