25 Jan 2013
Posted by Jay Ell Vaughn 
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After completing the St. Pete Women’s Half Marathon
By: Hope Reid
In February of last year, I decided that I wanted to be a consistent runner. Prior to that, I hadn’t run in over 7 years. When it was time to actually get out and get moving, I wanted to be comfortable and as prepared as possible. For me being prepared meant having all that I could possibly need for a one mile walk/run. So I set out on my “run” with keys in hand, cell phone, ear phone, water bottle, a snack and sometimes a stick in case I needed protection from a squirrel or something. At the time, it didn’t seem much of a burden. After all, when I got thirsty, I had my water, when I was bored, I could talk on the phone or listen to music and when I got hungry, I could have a snack.
For motivation, I joined a local running group with a lot of very experienced runners. There I met a member of and was introduced to Black Girls Run! Tampa. Joining BGR! was exactly what I need. Eventually, the more consistent I became with my run/walks, the more burdensome my “comfort items” became and they began to weigh me down.
As a person of faith, I was reminded of a scripture that said to lay aside the weight that can slow you down and run the race with patience (Heb. 12:1). One day I decided to leave my ‘burdens” at home and just run. I anticipated that it was going to be difficult not bringing my usual things, but I was pleasantly surprised. I really enjoyed my run. It was different from all of my previous runs. I was less distracted and more focused on my run. I was able to run at a slightly faster pace, longer distance and I even managed to get lost in thought.
A year later, when I go for a run, I wear a hydration belt with my key and phone and I run hands free. I know I still have a lot of learning, growing and maturing as a runner, but I’m grateful for the progress I’m made so far. I’ve noticed that the less loaded down I am physically, the clearer my mind is. So when I need that extra push to go another mile, my mind can support my decision to keep going and not be burdened down by unnecessary items.
About Hope Reid
I am a Chiropractic Physician, wife and mother of two children. I enjoy reading, educating the community about health, running and blogging all about it at www.DefiningHope.blogspot.com
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18 Comments
Hope your blogs and your updates got me out on the pavement again. You are such an inspiration
keep up the good work.
Wow Marie! Thank you! So glad you were inspired.
Hi Hope!
Thanks for sharing your story. It was nice meeting you in St. Pete!
Tylana! Thank you! It was great meeting you and your husband as well.
Awesome writing Doc!! I felt like I was in the story. It actually brought me close to tears as I remembered the liberty of running for the first time. Powerful story Sis!!!
Thank you Marshelle! Sometimes we don’t realize our progress until we stop and take a look back and see how far we’ve come. “the liberty of running..” love that!
Great article….I can sooooo relate!!
Thanks Renee!
That scriptural reminder came just at the right time! I’m glad you’ve grown and I’m sure I can do the same. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Sharon! I’m positive that you WILL grow also. Good luck on your journey!
Thanks for such an inspirational story. My friend and I are getting ready for an 8 week run/walk program to give us a boost. We are looking forward to joining Black Girls Run! Your story has given me hope, knowing that we all must start somewhere. I am focused on becoming a marathon runner….I must say, I am very excited. Moving toward a healthier lifestyle!!
Kendra, sounds like you are definitely on the right path. Black Girls Run! have been a huge support and motivation in helping me to be a consistent runner. I’m so excited for you! With your enthusiasm and focus, you’ll be running a marathon in no time. Thanks for sharing.
Yay! Great post!
Yay! Thanks Sharde!
Dr. Hope- I am very inspired by your story. I have recently joined BGR and I’m excited about my decision to run. I’m so excited about being apart of
this organization.
Thank you Dana. I tell you what, BGR! is definitely a great organization. I’m glad you joined. The support you’ll receive will be a great asset. Good luck to you.
Hi Hope. Your story was very inspirational. I am not a runner, but I have just joined BGR and excited about this new jouney in my life. I’m looking forward to becoming a runner, it is time for me to develop a healthier temple. I will be moving to Florida soon and hope to join the Tampa group. I am looking forward to meeting new people and becoming part of a supportive women’s group. Your scripture was right on time. I hope to get the oppurtunity cross paths with you at some of the local events. God bless you.
Hi Vanessa. Joining BGR! will be one of the best decisions to help you become a runner. I’m so glad that you were inspired by my story. I’m sure your story will also inspire others. Hopefully, we’ll be able to cross paths when you move to this area. Much success to you!