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 want to live longer."
"it is a perfect metaphor for self-improvement."
"FOR THE BLING-BLING!"
"yoga is hard."
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.
