It's been over 2 months since I was last in the gym, and now I am officially 30 years old. I have been trying to get back in the gym for some time now, and it's amazing how every little thing can distract and detour you from your destination. This morning I did it. I went back. Sucking massive amounts of air within the first 3 minutes of my run, I was reminded of the many reasons why I need not neglect that again, ever.
I don't particulary like my morning mess of hair flying around outrageously as every extra ounce of my body jiggles. The overwhelming feeling of a fish out of water does not lift my spirits, and sweat is just disgusting, regardless of who you are. But I discovered a little secret this morning, one small reason why the gym helps to make me a better me. I'm inspired.
I see the familiar face of the blind man who faithfully swims each day, refusing to allow his imparities to hinder him in any way. I see the much older woman who might typically be seen with a walker rocking it out on the treadmill. I see another overweight person like myself, and I know just had much courage and strenght it took just to even show up, let alone doing something productive on a machine that looks like it belongs on Mars. I'm inspired.
That is life, all of our lives and in every way. The choices we make have the potential to spur on those around us, even complete strangers. So to everyone who though it was just another day at the gym, it wasn't. You gave me the strength and courage I needed to get back up and try again, and for that...I am better. Oh sure, I lost a lot of time on my mile compared to where I used to be. It will be an uphill climb from here as I get back into a routine. But regardless of the physical loss I may have suffered that I learned of this morning, I gained something much greater. I am inspired.
