Running

...I run because it is something I can do by myself,
and under my own power
I could go in any direction,
fast or slow
fighting the wind,
seeking out new sights,
just on the strength of my feet
and the courage of my lungs...

Running is a challenge to me. A few years ago, it would be hard to get me out of my room, let alone go running. I ran today for about 40 minutes consecutively, I covered 6.27 km. I am dead tired but super energized. I felt like my rechargable batteries, connected to an electrical current.

2 years ago, I signed up for a running clinic. Some friends laughed at me, some thinks that its not wise to pay $80 to learn "to run". I went ahead anyways, was taught the proper technique of running, footwear, nutrition, hydration, injury prevention and cross training. I am still running today, in the last 2 years, I have worn out 3 pairs of running shoes and I have yet to have an injury. Maybe the $80 is worth it afterall !

I like running, it is my way of destressing, it builds my patience. I had to persevere when I am tired. It is boring, hard work, monotonous and hard work. Most of all, it forces me to not expect instant results. I run hard and there is pain. Pain while I am running and even worse the next day. When I run, i gather my thoughts, think through the events of the day or the day before, plan the rest of my next 24 hours. I end up with a clearer mind, better and more creative concepts. I became a calmer and a different person.

Running is one way of pushing myself, physically and mentally. I get a certain kind of drive from running. This drive eventually gets channelled to school, work and other things in my life. My sister said that one of the goals in my life is to Prove the impossible possible, on further reflection, maybe that is true but its my definition of impossible. Its my stubborn way of proving myself wrong or right.

7pm, in the AIESEC office, we talked about helping Denoja with her research paper, we came up with a few other topics. We touched on Confucianism. How the chinese traditions and culture has roots in Confucianism. How the new and younger generation incorporate western dreams with traditions in modern society... ( I am part of this new generation and how I dealt with it, I will blog about it later )

Back in high school, I have problems finishing 2.4 km under 17 minutes. Today, I am much better. I am still some ways from my goal of 10 km. Wish me luck. As Confucius would say
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

Anyone up for a run ?
A wink from Vanilla Cat.