I am so glad you are here!

I have been mulling over this weekly email idea for quite sometime now. I spent more time thinking about how to do it then actually doing it. Paralysis by analysis at its finest. Until finally I just told myself I was going to just do the damn thing regardless of how imperfect or messy it might start out being. So bear with me as it will likely be messy and maybe even confusing at times, which, in all honesty, is pretty authentic to who I am. 😄 

I wanted to share a piece of my soul with you for this first one. I promise they won’t all be this wordy or lengthy. But for this one, this just feels right.

Finding Myself One Stride at a Time

Running makes me feel alive in every corner of my body and soul, from the bottoms of my feet to top of my head and all the space in between.

Running used to be who I was, it was my identity, and the thought of being without it was gut wrenching. The belief that running gave me value and running REALLY far gave me even more unique value, was very real for me. I didn’t do it solely for those reasons but it was, for sure, a part of the appeal.

Running has taken me through some really tough times in my life. Times where it was the only thing I knew how to do. Put on my shoes and go out the door, easy. When life got hard, I pushed my running harder. Maybe it was numbing, maybe not. I don’t really know. Because running hurts at times and sometimes it hurts A LOT!

The pain from running makes sense, its a pain I can control. I can turn it off and on at any moment. Well mostly. And unlike the pain of life, the pain inflicted from hours and hours in my running shoes almost always results in feelings of exhilaration and strength. The pain life can bring, not so much. Maybe eventually, but never immediately.

Running is still a big part of my life, but it is no longer my identity. I am in deep gratitude however, for the years of my life where I believed my only value was running.

Those years built the woman I am today. You see, running isn’t just about moving the body, it moves the soul too. Cleanses it. Running reaches into the depths of the mind and pries open the long forgotten boxes and purges them.

The old boxes are replaced with new ones filled with wondrous things like grit, resilience, perseverance, fortitude and strength. Box by box the mind steadily fills with new beliefs and perspectives.

I needed to place my value in running. I see that now. But the value wasn’t for others to validate, it was for me. Running built the woman I am today and its taught me that I am actually so much more.

It isn't just about physical exertion; it’s a journey of self-discovery, clearing out old beliefs and replacing them with resilience, grit, and unwavering strength. Running, once a defining force in my life, has evolved from a source of identity to a powerful teacher.

Running has helped me develop a purpose beyond myself. Its greatest gift wasn't just to me, but the ability to share these hard-earned lessons and empower others to find their own inner strength and purpose, proving that the impact of running extends far beyond the finish line.

Thank you for being here!

My belief is that personal growth isn't just for ourselves; it empowers us to lift others. My hope is that I will inspire and empower you in some small way each week. Have an amazing week!

From my heart to yours,

Keli💚