Running and racing...in a different way

As I watched them, one-by-one, come over the last hill of the 13.1 mile course, I felt a sense of joy.

Maybe it was the memory of a few months earlier, when we turned a lot of folks who were doubtful of their ability to run such a distance, into a group who was willing to trust my confidence in them, and work toward this goal together

Maybe it was feeling the sense of accomplishment each of them was feeling as they looked to the last 800 meters of the course

And, probably, it had a lot to do with the smiles on their faces.

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Running with this team is a special thing. On a campus where varsity athletics are seen as the epitome of sport, the UNC Club team brings a more holistic approach to athletics.

They volunteer together and raise funds for local families in need.
They use the team to promote and advertise their individual service projects, mobilizing the entire team to work for causes such as Nourish International and the Ronald McDonald House.
They work hard together, and do so as a supportive family.
They set goals - both individual and collective - to challenge themselves, knowing that the discipline and work ethic involved will help make them successful in ways far beyond running.
They run with appreciation, understanding the privilege it is to be able to dance upon Mother Earth
Maybe most importantly, they don't take their running, or themselves, too seriously.

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On days when I am troubled by the lack of justice and equity in this world (see all previous posts on this blog), this group is a healing tonic for me, not just a running team.

I hope they realize how unique and special they are!