W3R3 I cried because I had no (running) shoes. Then I met a man who had no feet…

That’s week 3 completed and something happened on W3R1 that made me think. I had just finished the run in my local park and I was having a conversation in my head. That was harder. Yes, but I did it. Why do I get so out of breath? I’m going to have to do TEN TIMES this long! Yes but you’ll be ready, remember what they all say on the community forum? Yes, but… At that moment, just as I came out of the park I saw her. She was in her late twenties I suppose, I’m not great at judging age, but she was considerably younger than me. She was being pushed in her wheelchair and I suddenly thought – after calling myself something very rude – what would she give to be able to whinge about being scared of a few minutes running?

I want to remember her when I’m getting tired and out of breath. Yes, it’s getting harder but I’m doing it just like everyone else and now I’ve been reminded how fortunate I am.

[uncle_wiggy Graduate]

Stops you in your tracks sometimes... We all should make the very most of the wonderful opportunities we have available to us.... Enjoy the magic of today everyone

[Irishprincess Graduate]

A humbling moment no doubt. I recall a similar story when I met a child in a wheelchair once on a run and I so hoped that she had perhaps just been injured and it was only temporary. But it does make you realise how lucky we are.

Well done on finishing week 3 🙂

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Life’s a funny thing... she arrived with a message for you right on time... no need to tell you. Good job on the run. She will pop back in your head when you need for sure. Enjoy week 4.

[Oldlady57]

Indeed

[Realfoodieclub Graduate]

I did a triathlon in 2014 for able bodied and disabled people together. It was why I started to learn to run. I will never forget the feeling as I struggled up the first hill to be overtaken by a gentleman in a wheelchair. That was five years ago and I have never forgotten how humble it made me feel or the determination on his face, I have never felt so inspired on a run.

[theoldfellow]

Thank you for sharing that.

I find it amazing how those sorts of events inspire us. The competition for most people on these forums is not other runners, but our own motivation.