We're a pretty elite group, those of us in the Running rEVOLUTION. We're all different - different fitness levels, different goals, different personal situations. But we're all the same. As I sit here telling you about us, I get a little teary-eyed. I think about heaving myself around the block, thinking that I can't possibly make it another stride. I think about the shin-splints and the Northwestern Pennsylvania wind ripping at my face and ears. Then I remember that sound. You can hear it all over town when we run together. It is the sound of encouragement, love, and friendship. It's the sound of our elite group cheering each other on, the whoops! the hollas! the GO! YOU CAN DO IT! the clapping and the high fives. It's like the Heavens have opened up and the running angels are giving us a shove to the finish.
During our first meeting, we were all given hot pink buffs to wear. I suppose it was mainly for identification purposes, but this little piece of fabric symbolizes so much more for me now.
I tried 'running' before, a few minutes here and there on the treadmill. I was not athletic in high school - remember the scene from Sixteen Candles where Andie and her friend were in gym class smoking a cigarette? Yep. That was me. (Perhaps not so movie-like, but you understand)
When I am wearing my pink buff, I am pretty sure I could run from coast to coast. I can hear my 300 rEVOLUTION cheerleaders. Who would have thought that a stretchy little piece of fabric could mean so much and be so inspirational? I guess Linus was on to something after all..
I am leaving in a few minutes for the Cooks Forest 5K. Thanks to my girls in the Sisterhood of the Pink Running Buff for the encouragement and inspiration. And for choosing such a hot color.
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