Introspection

The two books I ordered in one morning a couple weeks ago probably says a lot about me.

One was Relentless Forward Progress: A Guide to Running Ultramarathons by Byron Powell.  I picked it up based on some recommendations and, duh, a 33.5 mile ultra looking me in the face on March 24.

The other was Quiet:  The Power of Introverts in a World that Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain.  I saw a preview of this book and it resonated.

Only after I got both of these downloaded to my Kindle did I smile and see the link. Who runs marathons and ultra marathons?  Is it not people who are fine with spending lots of time alone?  Who reflects about being fine with being alone?  Is it not someone who tends to introversion?  Who looks for subtle linkages, like, say, what it means to download two particular books in a matter of hours?

And I've really enjoyed both books.

"Relentless" is a terrific discussion of ultramarathoning.  I really appreciated the training chapter, particularly. It was there I was tipped off to the necessary of doing two long runs in a weekend to properly prepare for an ultra.  I haven't read a book on running for a couple of years either...and this is a good one.

"Quiet" has been a terrific treat to read.  I'm about halfway through it and Ms. Cain's crystal-clear writing style has explained a lot of my own introspection to me.  I've found it very encouraging and insightful.

And has given me lots to think about on those long runs getting ready for the ultra.

Persevere.

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