Sunday, September 23, 2007

The Triad

I was thinking about writing a post today. I wasn't sure what I would say... Maybe that we were all happy to meet Rob for a run this morning - glad to see him find some time to run, to tell us about his last few weeks - his first weeks in the classroom. Or maybe just a running report: 43 miles for the week, 10 yesterday, 10 today. But then I read Craig's post, and in writing a comment to him - I found what I wanted to say.

This is what I wish for each of you:

My hope for you is that the runs you have to grind through are few and far between. I am certain that running should be a joy - a symphony of movement...breathing in and out, muscles flexing and contracting, legs pumping, eyes searching the path ahead and heart singing. Most of all, to feel that triad of mind-body-spirit coming together...that's what most runs should be, and that is my hope for you. And even on the days when it feels like a grind, at the end, when it's all over and the body drops into relaxation, I hope you discover that it happened - maybe in a very small way - but it always happens - that the triad emerged...the mind is clearer, the body feels challenged and the spirit is lifted. That is my hope for you.

34 comments:

Iron Jayhawk said...

That was absolutely beautiful. :)

Jenny, Maniac #401 said...

So deep Michelle, thoughtful and well spoken! I had a "grind" run today, after 20 yesterday, a slow 3 was all I could muster with Michael along on his bike. Flet good when I was done. Have a good week.
Jenny

Unknown said...

I felt a renewal today that connected the mind, body and spirit and hope that there will be more in the future. I think the days that we grind we can also reach that goal of connecting the mind, body and spirit as well. Embrace the suffering!

lizzie lee said...

During my long runs I always ask that question that we probably ask to ourselves many times: Why do I do this?

I am not sure if there is a definite answer. I love the loneliness I reach when I run long distances. I love that state of mind when I am alone with myself seeing my life going through my mind like a movie in slow or fast motion.

I am always happy with what I see. I love my life.

Keep Running!!!

Anonymous said...

how beautiful!

wendy said...

Lovely, Michelle! I feel like I'm discovering that myself these last few weeks - that I just want to feel like I'm enjoying my run, and that it isn't "hard" every time.

Perfect timing for a reminder like this!

You had an incredible week - I know you have big goals, and my hope for you is that it's a sweet reward more than a sweat reward, although I there may be a mile or two to grind through.

Wes said...

I hope that for me too :-) but all the other runners as well... There is nothing quite like being in the zone. Can we call that the tri-zone of running :-) LOL. Beautiful post, Michelle!

Sarah said...

That's a great meditation! I'm going to start looking for and recognizing the triad. : ) Thanks for the inspiration!

Sunshine said...

A precious reminder to all you/us folks doing marathons in the next few weeks!

Olga said...

I think I've said enough at Craig's:) Good point, really.

Michelle Sarabia said...

You definitely need to put that one in that book you should write one day.

tryathlete said...

Call the Running Meditations editor now!

Anonymous said...

What lovely sentiments, Michelle! I wish the same for you. :)

psbowe said...

Very nice Michelle, same to you as we know you're having the time of your life(runs).

matt said...

thank you, michelle. when we don't have to grind, it definitely all comes together. sometimes, however, the grinding helps me reach the triad and the feeling is more profound.

your sentiments are quite beautiful and touching :)

Scott McMurtrey said...

thank you. what a wonderful way to say it.

Anonymous said...

What a wonderful wish - thank you - I am taking it with me and sharing it with others!

Anonymous said...

Thanks for this. :) Inspiration comes when you need it.

I'm presently searching for a marathon next spring. :)

Pat said...

you know how you go to a blog and that leads you to another blog which leads you to a blog you haven't been to in a while. That just happened to me.

Thank you.

Anonymous said...

I think the only thing to say is Thank You.

RunToTheFinish said...

beautifully said.

zanne said...

i absolutley love it. thank you.

Adelyn said...

what a beautiful hope.

Thanks so much for sharing that :)

christine said...

an inspired post indeed. today i had the kind of connection you wrote about, truly devine. interestingly it came after a real grinder 2 days prior.

Journey to a Centum said...

You are a perennial flower. I can't wait for the next bloom on your blog!

Danielle said...

There is nothing more to say to it. That's it and what a wonderful thought. I wish the same to you.

Anonymous said...

Love it! Here's hoping the same for you. :) Happy running!

Anne said...

A great response, Michelle. I hope Craig takes it to heart.

Anonymous said...

He will definitely try.

Legs and Wings said...

We all need hope - thanks for sharing this.

Anonymous said...

Thank you so much for this! :)

Ms Eva said...

Thank you! Your posts are always so motivating/inspirational. :)

With an upcoming family vacation, I don't know if I'll be able to stop by again before 10/7 so I wanted to wish you the best of luck at Portland. :)

runliarun said...

Thank you, Michelle. My runs, short or long, are always a grind. The triad never really comes together, although I admit when it's over I feel good, mostly because it's over.

Fortunately most runners are not like me. Fortunately most people are not like me, he, he.

E-Speed said...

what a wonderful sentiment for your fellow runners. And worded so splendidly!