It's not a cape, it's my running skirt

I ran my first 5k race eight years ago today. I decided to celebrate by doing a 3.11 mile recovery run this morning. While I was running I reflected on the runner and the person I've become since I took those first strides all those years ago. I've gone for more than 1,000 runs. Each step has made me a better person. I use running to exercise my body and mind. A former colleague of mine recommended it when she noticed I was carrying around a lot of toxic energy. My self confidence was at an all time low. I took everything personally and was quick to anger. I still struggle with my self confidence and anger at times, but when I run I have the time to ask myself why I'm feeling the way I am. Sometimes it's even easier than that. While I'm focused on form and breathing my mind is working away and I often finish running with a resolution even when I didn't know I was looking for one. I'm going to keep running and keep challenging myself. Eight years, 1,000

I ran my first race - and half marathon - of 2019. I didn't train for it the way I should. I also scaled back on my running a lot after starting a new job and recent engagement. It was a hot day, and suffice it to say, I wasn't ready. I finished the race, but I didn't run the whole time, which is usually my goal. My time was also a lot slower than I wanted it to be. For the first time in almost a decade of running I crossed the finish line and broke down in tears. I was embarrassed of my time, ashamed that I didn't put the time into training and just flat out exhausted. I wore my medal around my neck and it felt heavy with the guilt and shame I was carrying. But as the day wore on that medal served as a reminder that I should be proud. I made an effort to get out there and take on a race, even if I wasn't 100% ready. There were people who wanted to sign up for the race and didn't, there are people who aren't able-bodied and couldn't. I crossed the