It’s rough right now. I don’t think you can see it any other way. No matter your political views, your faith or your world view, we are all feeling it. Division, hate, misunderstanding, name calling and dualism are ruling the day.

I’m doing all the helpful, normal things – I’m reading the information, calling my congressmen (or women), donating money, volunteering where I can.

And trying hard to be unbelievably kind. Because we are all feeling it and we ALL need more compassion than normal.

During these times it’s easy to NOT get out there and run because honestly I just want to lay around and eat fried things and cry. Only exaggerating slightly for literary effect.

But when I run I can think and process in a way I can’t when I’m not running. I’m not sure why – is it because the act of staying upright keeps me from multi-tasking? Is it the rhythm of my own feet hitting the pavement? Maybe it’s because when I’m running there is only me and what I need.

George Sheehan, my very favorite running writer, once wrote:

“There will never be a day when we won’t need dedication, discipline, energy, and the feeling that we can change things for the better.”

So maybe that’s what it is – when I run, I am changing ME for the better, and if I can change me, maybe I can play some small part in changing the world. Or at least, changing my world.

So please don’t let discouraging days keep you from hitting the pavement. Because you and I are important and the world needs our voice. And running will help us say and do what needs to be done.

Happy running.