Depending on your current relationship status—or the status of who last emptied the dishwasher even though it was somebody else’s turn—Valentine’s Day can be a tricky holiday.
But there’s one steady partner in our lives that never fails us: running. We asked you recently on Facebook what you loved about running. As usual, you didn’t disappoint. And we loved combing through all the thoughtful responses and pulling out the following, which represent some common themes and a variety of sentiments. Enjoy!
A few years ago I would have said the thrill of competing, of chasing PRs, and always searching for a new goal. Now it’s definitely the friends I’ve gained (including many from this tribe!); they’ve brought so much to my life. —Michelle #1
I love that for the first time in my life, I started doing something and didn’t quit even though I’m not quantitatively very “good” at it. I didn’t quit when I got injured; I didn’t quit when it got hard. I love that running taught me that I can enjoy something without being “the best” at it. —Michelle #2
It makes me feel INVINCIBLE!—Britt
It’s the runners high after a race. It’s like I’m super special! —Liz
It helps with my anxiety. And I can eat a whole thing of Häagen-Dazs, and not see the effects, which also helps with my anxiety. —Joan
So much to love… the peace, the camaraderie, the satisfaction. —Meaghan
Clarity of mind.—Betsy
My awesome running group full of such fun people! —Jane
I love that, no matter how crappy I’m feeling or how much I struggle to get out that door, once I’m finally out of the house and feel my body propelling through space through the sheer power of my muscles, the world looks beautiful and I feel like I’m flying. —Sandra
It makes me realize just how SUPER STRONG I really am. —Kara
Running doesn’t discriminate based on economic, cultural, or sexist grounds. It is open and available to all. It crosses and breaks down barriers, and success or performance is not based on external circumstances. —Jannice
Watching the sun come up and feeling connected to nature.—Michelle
The fresh air on my face, and seeing the world in a way I can’t any other way. —Maureen
The conversations I have in my runs. —Alicia
An additional identity = Mother + Runner. (Badass was always there.) —Sadie
It’s the only time of the day I get to choose the music!—Heather
There is no better feeling than knowing as I run down my driveway after a long Saturday run most people are just getting out of bed. —Anne Marie
What I love about running is that it gives me peace. People may go to church; I go for a run. It is my time with God; I tell him my problem and give thanks for what I have. —Tricia
Having a dream, setting a goal, making a plan, executing that plan into action, achieving the goal, then celebrating! And all along the way, inspiring others. —Tina
It makes me happy. —Susan (BOOM! —Ginny)
I like that the roads and trails are always open for me, no matter what I wear, how I feel, and how fast or slow I want to go.—Donna
Running has been the constant in my life since 1977. I love the women who have been my running partners through thick and thin. I love the the runs I have had and those I will have.
Running is so freeing in many ways. My spirit can soar and I am always grateful. It has been a constant in my life since ’77.
Running has been my life since before I was a teenager…..and I am almost 56 so Running is just a part of life and I LOVE to run….It’s my time for me, myself, and GOD.
Lovely compilation. I can relate to 90% of these gems.