What I'm Running Away From

We always hear that it's not good to run away from your problems, right? Well, I have a new twist on that old advice that says it's just fine, as long as you're sneakers are in good condition.

Yesterday I ran four miles on my treadmill (in about 43 minutes) for the first time in at least five years. Though I am still not at the pace I'd prefer, it felt really good, and I ended up with more energy than when I'd started.

I realized, as I huffed and puffed to my favorite play list, that I'm running away from some things:

• Overly stuffed fat cells
• Increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and early death
• Depression and anxiety symptoms
• Sore feet that carried too much weight, and rusty joints
• Missed physical opportunities with my children
• Missed physical opportunities with my husband ;)
• The shame that follows a binge
• The embarrassment the comes with being heavy
• The sadness that comes with feeling like a failure

I'm sure I could add to this list, and perhaps I will, as I think of more. But to focus on the positive side, here's what I'm running toward:

• The healthiest and longest life that God is willing to give me
• Special memories made in all sorts of locations, during all kinds of activities with my precious family and friends
• Long days at the pool, in a SWIMSUIT, rather than in pants
• Happy times shopping for clothes that look nice and fit me well
• A good example set for my girls
• A body that is capable of running and playing and lifting things
• Days that don't revolve around food and its over-consumption

Again, I'm sure this list will grow as I think of more benefits that come with the direction I'm running.

How about you? Are you running away from something and/or toward something else?