born to run.

dear running,

 i know i haven't been around the past 2.5 weeks and for that, i apologize. my appendix decided to inflame itself and i had to have surgery to take it out.  but i know you'll forgive me.  you always do.  it's one of the things i love most about you.

we met 6.5 years ago during my freshman year of college.  you've been my most constant friend ever since.  i have to tell you though, i despised you for the first year of our relationship.  i hated the way i felt every time we were together.  you hurt me day after day, week after week, and i seriously considered ending the abuse.  but something inside told me not to give up and against my better judgment, i didn't. it's one of the best decisions i've ever made.

running, you make me better.  you make me reconsider my limits.  you put the impossible in the realm of possibilities.  you help me realize my potential.  you're there whenever i need you-- any hour, day or night.  you help me find solutions to my problems.  you make me work hard and you reward me accordingly with physical and mental strength.  you never criticize my effort because you're just happy i'm there.  you give me a runner's high without expecting any sort of payment in return.  you've facilitated some of my dearest friendships. you've taken me to the tops of mountains, down canyons,  along beaches, and through cities.  you've helped me see the world in ways i would never have otherwise. 

you've been right next to me during the best and worst of times.  you've seen every side of me--happiness, joy, excitement, ecstasy, anger, bitterness, heartbreak, frustration-- without passing judgment.  you calm my crazy mind.  i trust you because you've never let me down.  and i know you never will.

running, above all you have changed me and will continue to change me. and always for the better. 

thanks for the memories.  can't wait to make some more.

xoxo