Running in the Rain

Saturday, January 19, 2019


I was crossing the street one morning and at the light, I could hear the conversation inside of a car. “People run in the rain?!” Their voices got lower as I kept going but I could hear the curious amazement at the simple act of a person trying to reach a fitness goal.

It took 32 weeks of training. I trained in the Texas heat and humidity. I trained in the rain. I trained in perfect weather. I trained in the bitter cold. I believe that training in all weather conditions pays off at the end. I had great excuses to stay at home and sleep in. My goal drove me out there and my family and running friends motivated me.

Every time I thought about an excuse, I remembered there are people older than I, with more kids and life responsibilities than I have and they still find time and motivation to run. I thought about people with mobility challenges who are training with persistence. I proceeded with thanksgiving in my heart.

Running is a gift. Running is my second chance to be a good steward of the body God gave me.

My 4-miles with a smile effort was supposed to last 6 weeks. I’m thankful my running friends wanted to keep going.

So here we are, a few days away from the Houston Half. I remember the last time I ran the marathon. The amount of discouragement I received was heavy. You won’t believe the negative words I heard. I pressed on and grabbed my medal and finishers shirt.

Last year I took a Sabbatical. I never gave up on running but I took a break from racing.
So far, that decision has been one of the best I’ve made.

I came back healthier. I came back with the right motivations. I came back to encourage others to put in the hard work, week after week.

It is true that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Giving encouragement this early in the morning has been life-changing.

My prayer is that God will continue to bless me as I follow His plan for my life. Running long distance is part of the plan. Meeting new running friends and encouraging them is part of the plan.

Finishing a strong season with 13.1 on Sunday is where I’m headed.

These are a few reasons why someone would run in the rain at dark o’clock.

If you are trying to do something difficult, you are not alone. Don’t let the critics discourage you. Find your why. Find your tribe. Find someone else to encourage.

God’s for you, all the way.