runners of all walks of life are often asked this one question by non-runners, which, while simple and only constructed of a few words, begs a thinking process tantamount to answering an Epistemology course exam question. it's worse for ultrarunners as, to most pedestrian spectators, we're appearing to be half-assedly attempting suicide, or at least slightly deranged.
"why do you run?"
simple, reasonable answers exist for this question.
"I'm going to a good place."
"I have to earn my future."
"I have to switch my head off."
"because it's a symptom of more deeply-rooted psychological issues."
however, few realize that the wide range of responses applicable to this question actually forms a bigger, more fundamental reason for why you run. the problem is that this reason does not manifest itself through words but only appears as a mild sensation while you're running. henceforth--the more tangible an answer becomes, the harder it is to put it into sentences.
in this eleventy-bajillion part feature, I will attempt to put my spin into the runner's search for meaning. as noted, the resulting draft of a runner's rambling manifesto will be guaranteed to DNF. each post will connect to a previous post in some manner, forming a giant puzzle of indeterminate size and product. however--i hope this sisyphean endeavor will help you find a more purposeful consciousness to your running regime. enjoy.
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| I found this gem at Big Bend National Park. This pretty much explains the random locales my trail runs and races take place in. |
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