Why I run.

Someone posted a question on the MCM first timers board and asked why do you run.  It is funny but the reason I started to run 3 years ago is not necessarily what keeps me putting one foot in front of the other. Initally, I started to run because I was at a 6 month weight loss plateau and was going no where. I was so flustrated so I began a walk/run program on the treadmill. Slowly, the weight began to come off and I noticed that I felt better about life in general. Instead of eating through stressful moments, I went for a run. Since I am a goal oriented person, I decided that I have to have something to strive for so I signed up for my first 5K that spring.  But the more I train for this marathon, the more I am reflecting. As I am pounding away on the asphalt, I am learning more about myself. Funny to say that I did not really know myself after all I am 40. But I think that life gets in the way, other peoples preceptions and labels that are placed on you seem to mask your true self. Again the reason why I am running a marathon has changed since I signed up to now. I first thought I would run on the "embrace being 40" I am not running away from aging but running head on into it. I feel better now then I did 10 years ago. I chose the MCM because I have always loved the military and what they have done for this country. Being a retired military spouse, I thought what better way to run my first marathon. But I still wanted this marathon to mean ever more to me so I signed up for a charity that reflected what I really care about. The Fisher House foundation gives support, hope and compassion to military families and its members.
BUT...the really reason I am running and pushing myself. I am running for the little curly headed girl that was called "putsky" in gym classes. Who was the one of the last ones chosen for any team event in gym classes. I am running for  that same girl in middle school who felt like she would throw up the morning of the 1 1/2 mile run that was required each year. This same girl walked most of the run and was in the last few to make it across. As an adult, I am running for everyone who looks at me because I dont look like "a runner" because I am not toothpick thin. I am running for our military and their families. I am running for those who cant because of their injuries both mental and physical. I am running for my husband who was a runner (a darn good one) but after 21 years of service has both knee and back issues plus asthma from service his country in Iraq.
My running really is representing my life. When things got tough (deployments, multiple moves etc), I had reach down inside and push through it. I am dependent on myself both mentally and physically to get through this.  My family and friends have been supportive. They are my biggest cheerleaders. Without the understanding of my family and my crazy training schedule this would have not possible. They are helping me live out a dream. A dream to prove to myself that once I set my mind to something there is nothing that can stop me. AND that is why I run.