Running Towards Life

I'm a list making, note taking kind of guy. I've been keeping a journal of life's highs and lows, with a few breaks in the deepest of valleys, for nearly twenty four years. 

On November 13, 1991, I recorded a soul crushing weight of 250.25 pounds; lamented the state my life my life and determined to make positive and lasting changes. Had I known these were the good old times; had I a clue of what I was to go through down the road of life or that my weight would top 320 pounds, I might have thrown in the towel right then and there. 

That entry: 250.25, began a season of physical activity and determination that carried me through to Thursday, July 23, 1992, when I recorded a weight of 196.5. 1992 was a good year. I ran the Skagit Flats marathon. I rode the Apple Cup Century ride. I ran, rode, swam daily. Looking back I realize my personal life was a train-wreck and I kept my sanity through exercise. As soon as I found the stability and contentment I craved, my focus changed direction and the pounds crept back; slowly at first and then with a vengeance. 

In looking back through my journals, that is the lowest weight I have recorded; until Thursday, this week - twenty three years later. My weight is currently 195.8 pounds. 

My life has come full circle. This morning as I reflect on the past twenty years and all we've been through I can't help but smile. Who I am today is shaped by life's experiences; the good, the bad the terrible. I am no longer running to escape life's circumstances. I no longer crave unconditional love; I hold her hand and kiss her cheek every chance I get. 

I am running again, but it's different now. I run because I can. I run for the sheer pleasure of the experience. I am no longer running away. 

I run towards life.