Trail Blazing

Today was an awesome Saturday morning. Somehow I wrenched myself from the peace and tranquility of the bed early this morning to meet up with the running group for some trail running. By the time I got home, I was absolutely exhilarated from the day's outing. We trekked on more technical trails, navigating rocks and roots, causing me to slow to something of a hiking pace, but I didn't care. The second "half" of our run consisted of surveying possible trails for an upcoming race that's being planned. During this portion, we blazed new trails where none existed previously. I managed to knock my head on a low tree in my focus of watching my feet. When I stepped out of the car, I realized I was muddy, I'd gotten my pristine white shoes (the ones I wore for the marathon, on which I'd put some inspirational sayings) dirty, I accidentally misstepped into the creek when making a crossing, I had blood dried on my legs where branches and briars had left their mark. I was elated. Maybe it was the bump on the head, but this was the best run I've had in ages. I have no idea of how far we went through our travels, which is terrific. This morning made me realize my new running mission: just run for fun. Right now, I have no desire to sign up for any races. I'd prefer to forage new trails with an open mind. As a planner, this philosophy defies my very nature. I can't continue to live life constantly looking forward to some future event because I'm missing the now and the steps along the way to the future. Having no plans for distance or location today, just following the flow of the group, was better than any planned run I've ever done.