the gift that keeps on giving.
Today is my one year wedding anniversary.
The weather is nothing like it was one year ago today, when I took off for a short run to settle my nerves. That day was perfect; sunny, warm early, 71 degrees during pictures, not even a breeze. That early run was just what I needed, and the powers that be made sure it was extra pleasant for me.
Not this morning. It’s 27 degrees with more than a breeze. It’s that kind of cold that makes your bones shiver, cutting through any and all clothing. But I tore myself out of my warm bed, taking one last look at my husband of one year, and even though I so wanted to badly to spend an extra hour with him on our morning (not like he would have known!) I knew I had to run, for both of us.
Even though running is sometimes viewed as a selfish sport, taking up a lot of time that could be spent with others, I realize it is a gift that not only keeps me strong and fit (and allowed me to not feel guilty about eating the entire top tier of my year old wedding cake tonight); it is a gift that will (hopefully) help to keep me around for longer than if I didn’t do it. It will extend my years and ability to better take care of my husband, my future children, grandchildren, and maybe even my great grandchildren, if I am so lucky.
So on those really hard days, it helps to think not only about the great thing you are doing for yourself, but to also consider the extra time you are allotting yourself on Earth to care for those you love most.
I even try to think of this on the easy days.
