My friend ran 2.5 miles for the first time yesterday. Another friend has re-worked her schedule to find time to go to the gym on a regular basis. I know people that are walking after work, walking while their kids are in preschool, walking in the morning, doing yoga, swimming. I know people that are at fitness boot camp and those that are struggling to fit in a five minute walk.

All around me people are moving. They’re getting out there and using their bodies. They are sleeping better. They are feeling better. Their muscles are a little bit sore, but they are grinning when they look themselves in the mirror each morning.

I don’t take credit for this movement, I am just riding the wave and using their accomplishments to motivate my own efforts.

This morning I went running. I ran slowly, paying attention to my form, concentrating on my breathing. The weather was perfect, cool and cloudy. My muscles relaxed and I found a good pace. I ran for 45 minutes, covering almost 4 miles.

I ran to clear my head, to wipe a rough Friday off the books. I ran in communion with all those who have gone before me in inspiration, and all those who are coming along.

I ran by myself, but this morning all of you were out there with me.