A Reminder

Yesterday I did my long weekend run in Central Park for the first time since November. This winter I spent most of my time on the treadmill or in a spin class where it's safe and warm. The sun was brightly shinning and although the temperature was only about 31º, my special/expensive winter running gear kept me plenty warm. At about mile six, the steepest and most difficult part of the run, my favorite running song came on providing me the boost I needed to get up the hill. I was now running directly into the sun, the temperature had risen a noticeable bit, and I was finally beginning to sweat. I looked down at the woods edging the pavement and smiled not only because I had made it up "the hill," but because I saw the first signs of Spring; a small bunch of crocuses had peaked their yellow heads out from under the thawing ground. At that moment I wanted to stop and hug the ground, I wanted to scream out loud for everyone to hear, I wanted to release all my energy into the air in one single moment of exhale. I was, after the long and cold winter, rejuvenated. After all this time I felt that thing again, that feeling like yes, this moment right here, right now, this is why I run. This is why I train. This is why I love New York. Period. And it was exactly the reminder I needed. Amen.