March 15, 2008

The beautiful run through Portola Valley made me forget about my 5:30 AM wake up time on a Saturday morning when the rest of the city was still asleep. Moss covered trees, tree-lined tunnels, and gorgeous views of the lush valley was a stunning prelude to my weekend run.

The invigorating aroma of pine and eucalyptus trees refreshed my senses. Above me, the varying shades of green, and the different shapes and textures provided a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. Below me, the running stream alongside the steep embankment gurgled. I ran carefully along the narrow trail dodging root stumps, large rocks, twigs, and fallen trees. Loose gravel, mud, and slippery leaves also posed a threat to me. My concentration was so fierce that all I could hear was the rhythm of my breath. Then a raucous cry of a raven reminded me that I wasn't alone.

I actually had the pleasure of running with my fellow teammates and friend- Charles, Fatima, and Stefanie. Running with company always makes for a fun run. I almost always forget the difficulty of the run when I am running with others. And Portola Valley is definitely a challenging run full of winding paths and lengthy hills.

I ran the 10 miles in a slower than expected time. It is easy to argue that my time was a result of the difficult course and other excuses. It's natural for some of us to focus on our times during a run. But the message I want to send here is that I was not racing against anyone; nor was I racing against myself. It's not what I'm racing against...it's what I'm racing for.

I am racing for my heroes- those close to me who have and are battling cancer. I am racing for a cure!

If you want to help, please visit my donation page.  And thank you for your support.

Now tell me. What are you running for?

-Running Girl

"...Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us." (Hebrew 12:1)