As cliche as this may sound, I owe so much to my running group. I know I’ve talked about them before, but the friends I have made in this group have been among the highest of positive influences in my life.
There have been days that my runs have sucked, and they have been there to root me on (virtually, of course). Just the other day, a friend posted that she had a meltdown due to shin splints and she hit a wall. And you know what? There were messages posted for hours, days even, to cheer her up and lift her spirits.
Runners are a strange group, for sure. I should widen that statement to cyclists, walkers, and anyone truly dedicated to their sport. It takes a lot of courage, determination, dedication, time, endurance, and heart to put forth as much effort into your chosen sport as possible. The friends I have made on this journey are no exception.
Each person in the group brings a different character trait and personality style to the table. Kate loves life, and shares her love and awe with everyone all the time. Jason is snarky, fun, and kind. Robin is an astounding athlete. Suzanne is generous, compassionate, and has a fiery personality. Renee is sweet and caring. Eugenia is funny, outgoing, and pleasant. Karen is helpful, knowledgeable, and funny. Shawn is friendly and encouraging. Rhiannon, Cristy, Melia, Allison, Beth, George… The list goes on. I can’t name everyone, but I think you get the point.
We are scattered across the U.S. There may even be some folks in other countries. I don’t know everyone personally. Heck, I don’t know everyone virtually either. But I will say this, without these awesome virtual cheerleaders, I would certainly not be where I am today. I wouldn’t have signed up for a 10-miler, and I most likely would not have signed up for my first half in May.
These friends are champions for me, for themselves, and for one another. If I had to choose only one word to describe every single person in the group, it would be FRIEND.
My hope is that I give back to them at least half as much as they have given to me. Thank you, friends. I owe you.
