No JFK for Me

I have a deeper sense of life than what most might expect. Yes I ran for many years but the running was not life but instead it provided a way for me to understand life. Over time I began to appreciate the things that I used to take for granted. I became aware of my surroundings and the feelings of others. The time that I spent running allowed me to recognize my own limitations which in turn helped me to be less critical of others. I learned to deal with challenges one step at a time as opposed to taking one giant leap in an attempt to tackle the problem all at once. I learned how to face adversity while managing my emotions by channeling the energy in a positive direction. I recognized the importance of sharing my most inner thoughts and feelings with those who I love the most.

I came to understand that running is a tool that can be used for success and once the tool is used it can be put back in it's place until needed again. I know what I want out of life and in order to get it I can't cling to what I have because it feels safe but instead I have to have confidence that I can put that tool in its place and use what I've learned to get what I want. I have gained an understanding that running will always be a part of my life but it will never again be my life. My decision to not participate in the JFK 50 this year signifies the end of a chapter but the book continues on as I now look forward to whatever the future may hold.