Running

Running down the winding countryside road in my weather-beaten running shoes, my mind escaped into hundreds of realms of thought. I pondered, “What can I do for fun tonight?” and “Who should I hang out with?” Although my mind was gently rambling in an indecisive and uncertain direction, my head was as clear as the air we breathe. The air was pure, but moist; it felt great. Even though the atmosphere was exhilarating, that morning was memorable because of the tension I was attempting to rid myself of. I believe in working one’s frustrations out through physical challenges; I believe in running my worries away.

In the beginning, I was battling with various relationship issues. I had been involved with this special girl for over a year and during that year, she and I had grown extremely close. Early on in the relationship, we had that genuine, heartfelt connection that all inexperienced adolescents live for. From time to time, we squabbled about insignificant, trivial things, but we had never quarreled to the extent that we had during this conflict. The details of the matter were irrelevant, yet they were the reasons why I found myself running miles and miles on that narrow, country road. In the wide scope of the problem, she made a mistake, which upset me greatly. In hindsight, I was troubled more by her unremorseful disposition than the actual mistake she had made. I knew in my heart that I had to forgive her and resolve the conflict. Nevertheless, I desperately needed an outlet for the anxiety and anger that I had bottled up throughout the course of the argument. Although running was not always an enjoyable recreation of mine, it became the outlet that I needed.

Now, running the first mile was easy, but it seemed like a chore. Running the second mile took more effort and physically it was more taxing. It was worth all the while! I felt a burst of energy consume me causing me to pick up the pace and to run with more excitement and enthusiasm. That thrill carried me deep into the tenth mile, which is where I decided to break and relax. That break was not quite two minutes when I felt the desire to stop, lay, and rest. I was not going to allow that feeling to overcome me after I had come ten miles; plus, I had to run back home. Luckily, at the ten-mile mark I was on my way back home with roughly five miles remaining in my journey. The five miles were difficult but bearable. Shorty after I arrived home, I called my girlfriend and she and I negotiated a solution to our problem.

Conclusively, I learned a valuable lesson in dealing with anger and frustration. Although releasing the frustration is crucial, the initial problem must be resolved. After running, I had to return and face the issue of forgiving my girlfriend. This is truly a message that we can all use in regard to daily life and reoccurring problems. In the end, I occasionally need to just get away, run, and clear my mind in order to properly deal with these matters. Everyone has at least one interest that relieves stress; the key is in finding that endeavor that calms and relaxes. For me, true relaxation came from the opposite of relaxation, running. I honestly believe in running my worries away.