Yesterday afternoon, we received a call from a friend who had two front row seats available for a Merle Haggard concert that evening. The venue was about 75 miles from home, so, of course, we decided to go! A great show, and as we were leaving we ran into my brother-in-law with his family and neighbors. By the time we got away from there, we were hungry, so stopped at a fast food place to grab some really unsuitable food ... finally got to bed about 1:00 AM.

Somehow, the idea of running this morning didn't really inspire me, but it was such a beautiful day that I overcame my reluctance and went for an “easy” run. As I staggered along, gasping, nauseous and in pain, I reminded myself that suffering is optional: I could choose to suffer or I could choose to appreciate the run instead. I chose the latter.

I chose to think of how running was clearing the toxins out of my body and restoring some of my previous health. I chose to enjoy the cool shade of the trees, the warm sunshine and the pleasant breeze. I chose to accept the fact that I was slower than usual and remind myself that this was an “easy” run.

I reminded myself that just being able to run, however slowly, is a gift. Many of us never get to feel the joy that running can bring because we choose to stay comfortable rather than push ourselves. I reminded myself that is the way many people live their lives – just being comfortable and not testing their limits!

These and other thoughts passed through my mind as I coughed and spluttered along. Gradually, almost imperceptibly, the running got easier. My shoulders relaxed, my breathing improved, and even my feet seemed to get the message ...

Afterwards, as I cooled down and stretched, I started to appreciate the fact that I was actually feeling better now than before I started. Instead of wanting to crawl back into bed, I was ready to enjoy the day. The tasks before me no longer looked impossible.

So next time you wake up feeling that the day has started before you're ready, you know what to do. Accept the pain, choose not to suffer, and enjoy your run!

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