Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Filled in Footprints

ORN: 4 miles, 39:40, 9:55/mile R5/W1

A fresh 1.5" of snow fell overnight, with light flurries still blowing when I stepped out the door at 5:40 this morning. On one of the streets, no vehicles had passed yet...mine were the first footprints.

On the return trip, some 25 minutes later, my footprints were still the only markings, though they had almost filled in completely from the wind.

It was a simple sight. It was a marvelously simple pleasure. To be out, early, in fresh snow and to be active. I reflected further on my own blessings. Of health, to be able to simple go out and run four miles without thinking too much about it. Of not worrying about where the next meal will come from, knowing I have a warm shower and a warm breakfast awaiting me. Of a wonderful wife and family to love me despite my odd inclination to run in cold weather. Of friends, employment, opportunity.

It was a neat moment, in the dark and the wind to see those filled in footprints. I hope you can reflect on your own blessings today.

Persevere.

11 comments:

Wes said...

Running at that time in that cold is definitely perservering :-) Well done, Joe!!

Uncle Nathan said...

We do love you dad and I wouldn't have you any other way. Thanks for the positivity it is awesome.

Anonymous said...

Running in fresh snow is truly a treat. We just don't get may opportunities in Middle Tennessee!

Unknown said...

Wonderful post, Joe! I wish and wait for those days when I am able to lay the first footprints in the snow. Unfortunately it has been a couple of years since such a day. I have many other blessings to be thankful for though. However, I still wait for that day of freshly falling snow.

Backofpack said...

I can picture it Joe, you described it so beautifully. Thanks for sharing your simple pleasure with us.

Today was an incredibly clear and cold day - and my simple pleasure was the stunning beauty of Mt. Rainier. Amazing...

Darrell said...

Sounds so peaceful and reflective. Almost makes me wish for snow, almost but not quite.

Sarah said...

Running in fresh snow is the best! I often think of the same things when I'm out by myself in the early morning. It can be such a peaceful time to reflect on what is truly important. : )

Mary Gee said...

What a beautiful post. This morning I was reflecting gratefully on how many wonderful friends I have. It is a glorious feeling.

IronWaddler said...

Running in the quiet and snow is my favorite. Kudos to you for getting out there.

David said...

In my own warmer clime way I am with you on counting blessings.

Jim said...

Joe the western 'burbs of Chicago got hit a little harder than you did--we got about a foot--so I'm counting the blessings of a warm house, the flexibility to work from home, and the safety and comfort of an indoor running track just a stone's throw away from my house. (C:

Your post really made me think, though, which I guess was the point!

Jim