The Goal is to Finish

I haven't run but maybe twice in the last almost four weeks. 

Saturday I got a new pair of running shoes and this morning I took them out for a short run.  

It was rough.  I told myself I wasn't out to break any time records, just slow and easy.  The best part of the run was looking down at my cool new shoes.  Their hot pink with neon trim was the only bright spot on the chilly overcast morning. 

Then I reminded myself, or maybe I decided once again ...  I'm just out to finish this.  

I'm planning on running a 10K in May and then a half marathon in September.  This break from running had scared me a bit because it was getting so easy to not exercise, or go for a brisk walk.  Yes, walking is great and when you usually run it's like an "easy" workout.  But I knew I wanted to run.  I knew that I would get my new shoes and I would head out again, because when I run I feel strong and capable.  I feel like I can conquer anything. 

And while I enjoy seeing my pace speed up as I run more and as the pounds come off, really the only thing I'm looking for in either of my races this year is to finish.  To finish strong and know I didn't give up.  

There is always going to be someone more dedicated than me, more fit, faster, etc. etc., but I only need push myself and do my best.  And if it means taking is slower when getting back into running, then that's okay.  If it means not PR'ing a 10K because I took a month off of the training plan, then that's okay.

This is life and the goal is simply to finish.