Why do YOU run?

Happy National Running Day!

Many of you know by now that running is a huge part of my life and has been for a very long time. It all officially began going into my Freshman year of high school at the ripe old age of 13. I had this great idea that my friend Nicole and I should go out for the high school cross country team. Now, keep in mind Nicole had to be pushed into this a little. She ran in middle school but was totally over it. But alas, after lots of begging (A LOT) I convinced her to tag along because I wanted a buddy. No big deal, she was in the top 7 right away, went to State a couple times and ended up getting a D1 running scholarship to Central Michigan University. That worked out well right, Coley?

I did not want to go out for Cross-country because I was a good runner. I was not even in the least bit fast, like at all. I just wanted to “get in shape” for soccer and more importantly meet new friends. That cross-country team taught me more in 4 years than I could have ever imagined. They became my family. I learned how to be a part of a team. I learned how to be a leader. I learned (the hard way at times) how to be humble. I learned how to keep pushing when things get tough. And most importantly, I learned that there is so much more to the world around me. 14 years later and running still teaches me new lessons everyday. It lets me clear my mind on an otherwise busy day. It is my meditation, my outlet. But of course there are SO many other benefits to running…

I run to spend quality time with my best friend…