Because I Run

I feel young.

I eat dessert. 

I have super low blood pressure.

I can withstand the pressures of work.

I’ve seen gorgeous sunrises and peaceful sunsets.

I know where the official and ‘unofficial’ dog parks are.

I’ll probably live a bunch more years than I may even want to.

I know which day trash picks up in every neighborhood in Salem.

I can process my thoughts on death and dying and validate living.

I immediately know which new music I need to add to my running playlist.

I know every pothole that should be filled and every sidewalk that needs to be fixed.

I don’t have to worry if I’ll still fit into my clothes when I change the closet over for the season.

I realize the houses that don’t shovel are often the same ones that don’t cut their grass.

I know every new business that opens in Salem, and the ones that sadly leave.

I know which side streets speed traps should be posted on.

I can imitate the bird calls on the Salem/Marblehead trail.

I know which outdoor eating areas still welcome dogs.

I can tell when tourist season in Salem is full-on.

I know I’ll be glad I started once I finally finish. 

I can lift things up that weigh more than me.

My legs look 20 years younger than my face.

I know what it’s like to set a challenging goal.

I know how good it feels to achieve it.

I know what bombs sound like.

I know how healing feels.

I feel  strong.

I feel alive.

Because I run.