My Campaign For A Runner’s Gang Sign
I usually believe the crazy thoughts that enslave my brain are mine and mine alone. But recently I read an article in Runner’s World by Robert Sullivan that hit the nail in my head.
I started running to get healthy and achieve a goal of running a marathon. It wasn’t a fad. It wasn’t a New Year’s resolution. It was a lifestyle choice. I’m proud of what I’ve become. I know what it took to get my fat ass out of bed and hit the pavement. It’s a commitment and it’s not easy. Now that I’ve running has become my new obsession, I want to spread the word. I want to encourage others to get the same joy and fulfillment that running has given me.
This brings us to my point. When I run and happen to pass a walker, runner or biker (I’ll get to them in another post) I like to give a slight acknowledgment to let them know we’re in it together. We’re out there and we’re doing what we enjoy to do – we’re family. It’s that little nod that says “yes my fellow warrior – haul your ass up that hill – you can do it.”
Turns out, not everybody feels the same way!!! Not that anybody has every been rude about it. Come to think of it, we’re passing each other and it’s not like we’re standing in line at Albertson’s. If somebody’s across the street, I’ll watch to see if they look my way and give them a wave. If they don’t, it’s no big deal we just go on our way. Although more people are running every year, we’re still small in number. I guess I just want to let the other person they’re not alone in their quest.
I now start my campaign to come up with a universal “sign” that only us runner’s share. One that says “you da man – you go girl – and keep up the good work” all in one. I want to be able to roll down my window and flash it to the guy that runs around Spanish Trail everyday. RUNNERS UNITE!!!
RMFR
Tags: Albertson's, New Year's Resolution, Robert Sullivan, Runner's World, The Waver's Dilemma
February 13th, 2009 at 11:12 am
Um, so what’s the sign? So that’s what the head nod means? I never knew that. I always thought it meant, “Get out of my way or I’m going to stomp you out.” I feel bad now!
February 13th, 2009 at 10:29 pm
I’m not sure what the sign is. I’m still running on that one.
February 14th, 2009 at 12:36 pm
My husband Phil Hawken sent me this site because I enjoy running. I always give a wave and say hi when going by another runner. It’s a nice gesture, even if they don’t acknowledge it. If I see someone who seems to be struggling, I usually say “looking good.” I love when people say that to me when I’m struggling – it gives me a little extra kick. As for a universal greeting, don’t we already have those? A wave, a smile, a hello.
February 14th, 2009 at 3:38 pm
Welcome Kate. Tell Phil hi for me. Glad to know you’re like me and like the encouragement.
February 18th, 2009 at 9:59 pm
Stay tuned. I came up with something on today’s run.
February 25th, 2009 at 10:05 pm
[...] reading Kate’s comment on this previous subject, I got to thinking…why do we need a universal gang sign? We’re all different and run [...]