Running is not an activity I enjoy but one I must regularly participate in as my metabolism begins to slow. Tying my shoes, hooking Lucy to her leash, and slowly making my way through the neighborhood are acts of pure discipline and ones I can’t wait to be over. There can be surprising obstacles to maneuver around on these runs, too: avoiding the four Huskies on the corner, weaving around the land mines of dog poop on the sidewalk, and learning how to master the nonchalant “dust-off” after Lucy clotheslines me on a mailbox.
Patina is a fellow runner and good friend of mine and asked one day if we could start going together. My first thought was, “Ugh, no one needs to see me sweat and struggle my way through three miles.” But I agreed. And after a few months of running together, something funny started to happen. As we talked (and sometimes cried) about the highs and lows of life, the miles became easier. As we laughed over our graceless falls on sidewalk cracks, the time seemed shorter. As we held each other accountable for our struggles and vices, we covered longer distances. Now we had two sets of eyes to watch out for mailboxes and dog poop and I’d return with many less scrapes and far cleaner shoes.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another…” -Hebrews 10: 24, 25
God did not design or desire for us to walk alone. He created us to be in relationship with each other. When we travel through daily life with others while loving, encouraging, and sometimes challenging, we can accomplish things together that were formerly
impossible alone.
My big challenge with this verse is that it’s messy to have others alongside me, seeing my reality. In fact many times I’ve chosen to go at it alone instead of deal with the vulnerability of transparency. I can decide my own pace, wallow in bad habits, and quit whenever I want. But through my growing friendship with Patina, I found having a companion at my side through the miles makes me much more productive, real, humble, persevering, and encouraged. Taking risks and getting messy in friendships brings far more value and joy in the end. So instead of trying to maintain an aesthetic but distant appearance with a crisp, clean handshake…I now much prefer a sweaty, smelly hug from a great friend running the race beside me.
Wow!!! Way to go, Cassidy! Keep up the good work. I admire the way you can actually go out…and run! That is SO beyond me. Can’t wait to see your new blog entries or whatever they’re called. I really enjoy em’.
Wow. You are an amazing writer. Can’t wait for more blogs! I, of course, cried when I read this. Thanks for taking the time to share your heart. Running with you, and being your friend, is such a blessing. Love you!
Very well put, Cass! I appreciate you sharing the reality of your situation with running that can easily be applied to life’s obstacles. I know a lot of people can relate and are drawn to your humor, truth, and compassion; and it’s so refreshing
I might be the first guy to comment on this “women’s blog” but I think the author is pretty cute and insightful. Way to go Cass!
Thanks husband.
Cassidy, thanks for your honesty! I too have been having a fighting relationship with getting outside and doing the exercise I need to do, but praise the Lord there are some sweet sisters ready to come along side me. Let the accountability and friendship building begin!! Excellent post!
Lisa, that’s awesome! So glad you have the support because anything (even/especially exercise!) seems much better with a good along.
So true! I like the analogy and laughed at loud at the clotheslining comment!! But how right you are that we need those who can come along beside us and pick us up when we fall. Thanks for this!
Holly, a common question from my husband after I get back is “where is that blood coming from?” I can be clumsy and so can my dog!
This message spoke straight to my heart today. This is exactly what I am going through right now. I always try to do things on my own. I’m afraid to be vulnerable and let my walls down. It’s important to let others walk with you through life. I just started to realize this in the last month. Thank you for your words of encouragement!
On the running side of this – I recently started running with a buddy. We have been training for a 1/2 marathon that is this Sunday (6/3), and a full Marathon in October. My new running partner is such a blessing! It makes those weekly long runs seem not so long.
Wow, Emily….a half marathon?!? Way to go! How awesome you’re taking the steps toward growing friendships and closeness. I will surely be thinking of you tomorrow as you make your way through those 13.1 miles! Is your running partner doing the race with you?
Loved this! And so true!! Thank you!
This post really spoke to me today. thank you.
I’m glad, Cindy. Thanks for taking time to read it.