"You wanna fly, you got to give up the shit that weighs you down." – Toni Morrison
Here we are, standing in the heart of January, and I've already ticked off a significant achievement on my 2024 calendar – my first 5k of the year. This run wasn’t just any race; it was the embodiment of my "Comeback 5k Run." Now, let me be real with you: this wasn't one of those picture-perfect, effortless runs you see on social media. No, this was the gritty, real-life return of a grown woman who's been away from the track for too long. This run was my comeback, and it was as beautifully flawed and triumphant as any first step back can be.
Listen, these past months haven’t been easy. Don't get me wrong, there was was some pretty dope things that happened to me, but between illness, work demands, and the holiday rush, my running shoes collected more dust than miles. But here's the thing about life: it doesn't stop moving, and neither should we. So, I laced up those neglected shoes and hit the pavement, not just to run a race but to reclaim a piece of myself that had slipped away.
This 5k wasn’t about speed or breaking records. It was about endurance, pushing through the discomfort, and reminding myself of my strength. It was proof that even when life throws its worst, we have the power to rise, to keep moving forward. It was messy, it was real, but most importantly, it was done.
Running, for me, is more than just physical exercise. It's a metaphor for life. Every step is a reminder that I'm constantly moving, constantly striving – not just for myself, but for my dreams, my family, my community. Each stride is a pursuit of happiness, a chase towards the dreams that God has laid out for me, and a dance with the possibilities of tomorrow.
So, as I set my sights on running a 5k each month this year, I'm not just setting a fitness goal. I'm making a statement. This is about discipline, resilience, and honoring the journey I'm on. It's a testament to not just getting back up, but doing so with grace and grit.
To anyone who's felt like they've fallen off track, remember this: our journeys are marathons, not sprints. We might stumble, but we don't stay down. We rise, we run, we conquer – one step, one day, one goal at a time.
This year is ours for the taking. No matter how long it takes or how tired we get; we're running towards everything we deserve and more and we won't quit until we pass the finish line.
To support my journey and to help you on yours, I’ve listed some of the equipment that I personally use and recommend.
Full disclosure: I do receive a small commission from these links, but these are all products that I have purchased and use regularly.
Walking Pad: Stay active even on busy days with this Walking Pad
Set of Weights: Enhance your strength training with this versatile Set of Weights
Yoga Mat: For yoga sessions or post-run stretches, this Yoga Mat is perfect.
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