I did my longest run of the year recently. Long runs are beautiful, wonderful, challenging things. Hour after hour of step, step, step, breathe, breathe, breathe, trying to remember when to take in fluids, calories. Deciding how much effort to put into each uphill and downhill. In long runs, as in life, pacing is everything.
Sometimes on long runs I feel tired, lonely, and begin to doubt whether I can reach my goal. At times like these, I try to remember to pay attention…to this step, this breath, this stride, this arm swing, this mile. I look for both lesson and teacher.
Let me tell you about some of my precious teachers.
Grandfather rocks, old and wise, weathered by time and the elements. And still here, now the size of small pebbles, too many to count, on this wonderful trail I enjoy. They are here and welcoming my presence, as they always do. They cushion my every step; supporting me, as our loving and generous more than human relations always do.
Do you smell the rich fragrance of the pine forest on a warm day? It’s the smell of love and generosity and wisdom and strength. How could I ever feel lonely or doubtful in such a blessed place?
The Auntie Way Writing Retreat Summer 2021 Registration is now open! More info is here.
Michelle M. Jacob 