Miles of Gratitude.

I've gotten into the habit of saving my long training runs for Sunday nights as it seems to be a relaxing way to end my usually busy weekends.  This time was no exception. Except that it was 90 degrees out, humid, and I had spent the majority of the weekend laying in the sun, switching out water for cold beer.  Lesson learned. 

So after I started seeing stars around mile 5, I decided to call it quits.  Still, the three mile walk that separated me and my air-conditioned apartment forced me to slow down and do some soul searching. I was feeling super frustrated and disappointed in myself for not being able to finish my run, turning what was supposed to be a relaxing run into a pity walk and one heck of a bad attitude.  Fortunately, as Minnesota began to cool off so did I, and I decided to instead focus on some of the things I have to be thankful for. 

It has been almost three years since I moved to Minnesota, which actually blows my mind.  I have been so lucky to make such wonderful friends since then and had the chance to spend the weekend with a few of my favorites.  Wisconsin provided us with some sunny weather, perfect for the day of boating and sun bathing we had planned. I love getting to share my hometown with new friends, catching up with old friends, and spending relaxing nights around a bonfire under the stars.  But instead of thinking of these things as we made our way back to the cities, my thoughts turned to the busy week ahead, the emails that needed my attention, the phone calls that would have to be made, and then the 8 miles that still needed to be run.  

Am I really in that much of a hurry that I leave no time for gratitude? To give thanks for anything? Everything? 

In her book, One Thousand Gifts, Ann Voskamp shares that the secret to complete joy in life is thankfulness.  Although we might not understand why God brings us to different challenges or trials, we can still receive His grace in our life.  When we more fully understand the depth of His grace, we are given the opportunity to give thanksgiving.  And when we share our gratitude we experience a bounty of joy.  

So as you prepare for your week, take a moment to make a list of the things in your life that you are thankful for.  As you face adversity or challenges this week, know that you still have to the choice to give thanks instead of giving up.  Trust in God's grace and His plan for your life.  And allow the joy that only comes from resting in Him keep you moving forward.  Even if it's not at a running pace. 

XO, S