Thoughtless Thoughts
It's not often that I actually think about life when I run. Sure...I think...but I think in the way you remember old camp songs to sing to yourself as you plop one foot in front of the other, or misc. movie trivia...or trying to recite the alphabet backwards. See...when I run, I run not to think about the things that trouble me...I spend enough time and energy worrying about stuff during my non-running hours, I'm not about to let those issues creep into my "me" time.
So when Thursday night's JP Morgan Corporate Challenge (3.5 mile race) came, I did my usual...found my rhythm both in my feet and in my head...however, I can't remember for the life of me what song I was singing. Whatever it was, it was quickly swiped away about a mile into the race when I read the back of royal blue a t-shirt with a goofy space-like cartoon character...
...In memory of Myke Minbiole...
...it read prominately across the back.
Now as a charity runner, I've come to appreciate the notion of running in memory or in honor of someone. And usually, when I see a shirt such as this, I smile at what the runner is accomplishing and give a mental shout out to their honoree...
...except this shirt caught me off guard.
See...I know Myke's wife, Julie. Less than a month ago the pair were victims of a hit and run car crash a few blocks away from our home. Julie survived. Myke unfortunately passed away. In a few days they would be celebrating their one year wedding anniversary.
While running, my heart simply broke for her.
I sped up to run with the men in royal blue shirts and introduced myself to one of them. We briefly exchanged words...and they shared a heart-touching story about a about Myke and a project they had recently worked on. The impact that Myke had on so many was evident. His spirit was encaptured in their smiles and fond memories. I could go on...but it'd get really heavy...and we all know that I'm not one to be heavy...
After another mile or so, as I went on to finish the run, I thought. Not the usual thoughtless thoughts about movie quotes or the latest top 40 hit or what I was going to have for dinner....but really thought. Thankful for air in my lungs, the most amazing greatest family anyone could ever ask for, my husband who is my rock and my best friend, a job that pays even though it can frustrate the hell outta me, and all the little things that make my life, my life. I ran and counted my blessings with each step.
The details and numbers of the race are pretty much irrelevant in comparison to the events that took place during the run, so I'm not even going to share them with you. Let's just say that I did well. Surprisingly well for me. I chalk it up to being inspired by the guys in the royal blue shirts...but mostly inspired by Myke.
On a lighter note, yesterday I had off at work, so I woke up early (namely because of Phog) and went for a 4 mile run at just over a relaxed 12:00 pace (while singing "Bad Moon Rising" over and over and over in my head)...followed by 40 minutes in the pool for 1200 yards.
And this week's running highlight? ...I finally got new running shoes. I have still been running in my marathon shoes from last year. 'Bout time I upgraded, right? Hopefully my beautiful new Mizuno Wave Nirvana 3's will be good fortune and less shin splints...and hopefully they will be named within the next few days...the Big Bird shoes are going to be retired right along side my Dave Grohl shoes...maybe I'll even recycle Dave, though I have a hard time letting go of shoes that have been so good to me.
This morning we had 8 miles on the schedule. When we woke up...it was in the lower 50's and pouring down rain. Totally craptacular weather...and we made the executive decision that we needed to just sleep in with the understanding that tomorrow we're doing a brick workout. I was okay with this...and welcomed the nice day off!
I hope everyone is having a wonderful and well-deserved holiday weekend...till' next time, campers...keep on running!
posted by Iron Jayhawk at 8:05 PM
9 Camper Comments:
what a heartbreaking story. and what great friends myke had. I think if i saw a shirt like that, with someone's name on it that i actually knew, i don't know if i'd be able to finish.
it's a good reminder to count our blessings.
Death sucks, but nothing makes you feel more alive than running.
Have fun with your new shoes; I need a new pair badly.
What a nice tribute.
Glad you got new running shoes - I did too as i was also in my marathon shoes.
Beautiful tribute..thank you for sharing.
I have Mizuno's I think you will be very happy in them. Can't wait to hear what you name them. :>)
I am sorry for your friend, but grateful that you found some time to be grateful for everything you have. I think those kinds of runs are important to have.
That's a touching story, Barb. Gives a good reason to run and inspired me.
The people and experiences encountered during a run continue to amaze and inspire me. I also ran the Corporate Challenge race and unfortunately did not enjoy it. Your story though has made me think and feel completely different about the race.
Also, it's always hard to retire a pair of marathon shoes isn't it? I have Mizunos too (Mizuno Wave Rider) and they are great!
Those types of runs are special on a whole different level.
Hope you guys have had a great Memorial Day weekend!
hey barb.
i google myke's name from time to time, and today i came across your blog entry. it brought a big smile to my face and a few tears also. i'm really touched. all the best to you barb,
julie.
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