Happy Global Running Day to you and yours! I got my A.M. started with a jaunt around the lake before the workday. It was early and I was sleepy but due to this being a very important holiday to me (HA) I just got up and did the dang thing. Early morning workouts always do make me a little more productive with the crazy busy days and with working two jobs.
Global Running Day always makes me feel a bit more reflective and helps me to look back and think upon all of the wonderful memories I’ve created and made with this sport. Many of you readers are already aware that running really has truly changed the trajectory of my life and for that I am forever grateful. I’ve crossed paths with many incredible folks…pounded the pavement and trails and many wonderful places…and really body mind and soul it has changed me for the better.
For all of the accolades and ultra awards I’ve won…I’ve worked ultra hard for. I wasn’t your cross country/natural ability type of athlete. Quite the opposite really. And over time I’ve learned to love the art of running. I’ve learned to go with the waves…with running and with life.
I came across this quote on Pinterest I believe and it really resonated with me and how I feel about running as a whole.
It has taken me a very long time to get to the place that I am with my miles. I remember days when running encompassed my entire self worth as an individual.
Every blog post, social media post, thought in the morning was about races…miles…running friends…RUNNING. Although I hate to admit it, I cared a very great deal about how people saw me as a runner.
A Black woman…single…crazy independent…Two time 100 mile finisher…topping just about every Strava run club leaderboard I was in.
And to be honest, that was and still is something I am very much proud of.
It’s pretty common place to see a white middle aged male (for example) be really crazy good at marathon and ultra running. But a Black female…not so popular.
I was and still am very well aware of my accomplishments and how people see me as THAT girl. But…it does not define me like it used to.
I am now just as proud of how hard I’ve worked in the arena of broadcast journalism…leading a department and doing what I do. And also proud of my side hustle as a fitness instructor with over a decade of experience.
I’m proud of myself as a daughter and friend to many. I’m proud of how far I’ve come in realizing my self worth as an individual overcoming trauma and surviving many obstacles in life.
And I’m still here. Still moving. Still pounding the pavement. FOR ME. Not for accolades or how it looks to you or anyone else following this here blog-o-thing. Although I do appreciate any and everyone who still cares to read and occasionally comment haha. Shout out to my OG bloggers still doing the dang thing.
Running…I am still going with the WAVES. Still loving the ups and downs. Like any SOLID relationship. At the end of the day I have you in my back pocket.
Thank you, running, for proving to me how strong I am, time and time again.
Feel free to share some thoughts you have about running on Global Running Day today!
thedancingrunner 
Love this!!
Love you, Tiff! Let’s get together soon for some more miles 🙂 🙂
This was really powerful. Thanks for sharing a small glimpse of your journey… And just think how many people – including young girls – you’ve inspired along the way!
THANK YOU so much, Ash. That really does mean at lot to me coming from you. I remember the days when I read your posts thinking “100 miles. Sheesh. I wish I could do that!” You really were one of the ones who inspired me to go the distance all of these years and I thank you for sharing your journey. Sometimes you really do not know who you are inspiring by sharing your testimony.
I’m really glad you are still sharing, and that we are still in touch! Hope you have a great rest of your week. 🙂
Running has been very healing for me as well, teaching me how strong I can be. I’m also a part of a very large community! And ours in Richmond is super special. And the longer I run, the more it becomes simply just for me, especially as I get older and slower!
Slower is always relative, my friend. Appreciate your ability to still get out there and enjoy that thing you love with the people that you love. Perspective. 😉 Cheers to more miles and longevity for you!
And same to you, friend! 💚
I love this post. Even though I don’t know you (except through your lovely blog!) I feel the same that running empowers people and gives confidence in all areas of life. The strength it brings is reflected in other aspects of our lives. Keep running – keep strong!
🙂 THANK YOU, Emily!! Sending you good run vibes as well my blogger friend!
What a wonderful post about your journey to who you are today!
THANK you so very much!