It wasn’t an hour after I posted my last dispatch about the 30 day hiatus, that I flipped the TV to BBC America, which was showing “Chariots of Fire.” I want to go run anytime I see that movie. And my spirituality is always encouraged by the story and by Eric Liddell’s words. There is a scene where he is explaining why he has to run and win. “I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure.” Man oh man! I was a wreck. So inspiring, yet maddening. I want to run again, to feel that pleasure. To feel my body grow and groan and fight. I found myself watching the movie and thinking about THEIR Achilles, THEIR knees. Did they hurt? Did they fight through the pain? Will I ever be as graceful as they?
And how about this Liddell line from the movie:
“Lord Cadogan: Don’t be impertinent, Liddell!
Eric Liddell: The impertinence lies, sir, with those who seek to influence a man to deny his beliefs!”
This Running Life 
Look at your running like a practise, not exercise – you will be doing it, in some form or intensity, for the rest of your life. 30 days out is hard but every runner has to deal with injury at some point and if you can cross train and keep your fitness levels up you will soon be back on track. Stay strong!