gratutude

Alone on the trail. Just the way I like it.

My gratitude for running is deep. One of the reasons I’ve stuck with it all these years is it allows me the chance to escape the world. When I encounter other runners on the trails, I offer a polite, two-finger wave and keep moving. Running is a break: From people, the city, phone calls, inane conversations, and sometimes just eye contact.

I swear I’m not a curmudgeon. Just a highly introverted woman who needs a reprieve from humans. Running is my special version of “me time.” I don’t mean to toot my own horn, but by golly I have gotten really good at “me time.” Especially after the last two years.

But I was not meant to live in an introverted cave, and a series of recent events showed me why.

I now have a long-distance marriage after my husband recently took a job in a different city. I’ve been traveling and visiting colleges with my son. I had a string of doctor’s appointmens and my first MRI. My daughter had surgery. And the cherry on top—not one, not two, but three separate plumbing emergencies at our house. And yet I’m feeling grateful.

Between traveling, the TSA, and calls to water damage restoration and doctor offices, I’ve enjoyed the human interaction. “How are you today?” and “Thank you for your patience” don’t feel like trite comments anymore. They are genuine. I do not take for granted having someone acknowledge me, whether on the other end of the phone or after waiting in a long line.

These interactions have given me the chance to be kind. To everyone. There’s a quote floating around right now that says, “The whole world is short-staffed. Be kind to those who showed up.” This has never been more evident, and I have been challenged to keep my eye-rolling and impatient sighs about other people to myself. 

gratitude

The sign of the times.

When scheduling a recent doctor’s appointment, the nurse on the phone lost track of who I was and accidentally questioned me about my prostate. I corrected her, she apologized, and then she added in a weary voice, “It’s been a very long day.” I assured her I understood. Truly. I thanked her for all her hard work, and then we both devolved into such giggles I had tears streaming down my face.

I had to immediately call a handful of plumbers when a pipe burst over my son’s bedroom. Only one company responded, and they reluctantly told me the soonest they could come was in 7 days. They were so apologetic, and I heard the voice on the other end of the line brace for a tongue-lashing. I told them I absolutely understood and we would make it. I sincerely thanked her for fitting us in. (The relief that came through the phone was palpable.)

I continuously encounter long lines at airport security, delayed flights, weary flight attendants, and lack of food from closed airport restaurants between endless layovers. But I also feel a surge of gratitude. Grateful for those who showed up, for those who make it possible for me to see my husband, for everyone who is working so hard to keep us safe.

I still need running to get a break from life’s daily stressors, but I have a deep compassion for everyone trying to navigate the world as best they can. Yes, it feels like we’re constantly living in unprecedented times. But it also means we get to express unprecedented gratitude and kindness.

And if I see someone on my favorite trail, you bet I offer a big smile, a cheery hello, and an enthusiastic hand wave! After all, they showed up, too.

How are you practicing kindness these days?