I can't decide if I think this is a bunch of feel good baloney or if I wholeheartedly agree. I think I agree. It isn't just the training or completing the event, it's the atmosphere of the event itself. They're all incredibly optimistic. I've been to big college football games, and events like that are antagonistic. But running is different. Nobody is hoping another runner trips or cramps up. Other than for the dozen or so runners at the front, everyone else is there for themselves. I feel better about myself for being able to do it, and I feel better about others as we all struggle in our own ways. The Boston Marathon is today, and it's pouring rain. Those soaking masses will have an incredible shared experience. It will be awful, but there will be fond memories.
I was talking with a friend a couple months ago about how we were told we could achieve anything in life and what a lie that turned out to be. I find running to be a good antithesis to that. It's about being the best the individual can be and finding little value in comparing against others. It probably applies to lots of things. Running is easy to measure, but I think it could apply to anything where someone values their own ability, even if that ability provides nothing to the subject. Maybe especially if it provides nothing. Growing a topic invites scrutiny which invites self doubt. Basically I think everyone needs a hobby, something where they're doing something. It doesn't need to be active, but it should be something where they're bettering themselves. I feel happier since I started running, but I don't think it's running itself, I think it's from having a hobby where I can feel myself being more capable.
Couldn’t agree more. Self-compassion rings a bell with me when no of my middle school math students. Far and away my top students are the ones that are most forgiving of themselves. The ones that are able to forgive themselves for the mistakes everybody makes while learning are the kids that write their own ticket to wherever they choose. Hobbies are great places to develop a better sense of self-compassion. Rather than pursuing the pleasure of the next drink, or overindulging so where else, a person with a hobby can develop an appreciation for their achievements. I buy it wholeheartedly. I also enjoy running. Usually in the 3-5mile range, otherwise I’m cutting too much into family time. Thanks for your perspective.