A Matter of Perspective

My Saturday run was awesome! My legs were strong; my lungs were strong; even the clouds parted and I stayed dry for the entire waterfront loop. I felt like I could run forever, so why only 5.3 miles on an otherwise perfect day?

Priorities!

Saturday, in addition to running, I was committed to play drums for a group in Seattle. By the time I showered, loaded my equipment and grabbed a sandwich, I was out of time. My ever patient wife stayed with me through what must have been a terminally boring set-up and sound check before sitting through the actual performance. By the time we sat down for dinner at one of our favorite South Lake Union restaurants we were both exhausted.

I would like to run more. I would love to play music every night. It isn't a matter of first things first; it's a matter of important things first. The most important thing is my marriage. If Michelle ins't my priority it doesn't matter how many miles I get in or how many times I get out to play, my life's out of whack!

This week I'm going to run less; probably a lot less. This week my training program includes painting the kitchen. As I'm thinking about it, the question in my mind is:

1. Am I painting the kitchen so I can get it over with and go running?

2. Am I painting the kitchen because I share Michelle's pride in our home and I want to bless my wife?

It's the question I'll keep in my mind as I'm masking and painting. It's not just a matter of priority, it's a matter of perspective too. It's a matter of doing the right thing because it's the right thing to do. I'm not perfect. I never will be. That doesn't mean I can't give it an honest effort.