Dirty Shoes

Everyone has their means of getting rid of a little stress. For me, the wound up, high energy, worrier that I am...I need a good way to get rid of stress. Sometimes being home with the kids makes me even more stressed out, as much as I love it.

So, in the process of figuring out how to get rid of some of that nervous energy, I discovered running. I took up running as a senior in high school. At first we had quite the love-hate relationship...I hated it, but loved how much better I felt afterward. Now I hate when I don't get out and run, or work out, or just do something physical to get out some energy and a good sweat.


I noticed, also...that my head is so much clearer when I'm running. Alot of people say this...that it's a good time for them to think, or even to pray and plan. For years running has been the time that I pray, and just talk things out with God. I feel His presence when it's just me and the road, listening to my feet hitting the pavement and feeling the burn in my muscles. *I've always like to run alone too...because of this. I don't have to worry about chatting...just breath and pray*I was thinking about this today, and how it's the same with my life. If let myself get comfortable with the way that I am, which I do more than I want to admit, I get lazy and slow, not just in my running, but in my pursuit of Christ and loving those He's placed in my life.


I need to push myself...push myself to be uncomfortable, and to sweat a little in the effort to know and love God and the people around me. Go another mile, feel the burn of ignoring juicy gossip, or self-righteous judgments that only make me feel better about myself in the short term. Deal with the sore muscles of actually forgiving people who hurt me, loving people the way they need it, and seeing them as someone who is treasured by the same God who treasures me. I'll reap the benefits of this just like with running...my heart will be healthier and I'll finish my run, or my life, feeling healthy and strong. Exhausted from the hard work, but knowing I got my shoes dirty doing something good, something that mattered. See you on the road...;)



This week at YouCapture the theme was lines...check out the link for more great shots!