money
time
family obligations
wanting to be prepared
the need for a perfect course (preferably flat and certified)
If I am going to race and it's going on my record, it better leave a good mark.
Today I stepped out of my comfort zone and raced. It wasn't totally on a whim; it had been in the back of my mind for a few weeks...
if I was healed
if the money was there
if the hubby was OK with it
if I felt like it on race morning
In the car on the way there, I thought to myself
"What am I DOING?"
"Why am I racing? Is this NUTS? I am asking for injury."
And, "I might feel bad about my race afterwards and beat myself up."
But then I thought,
"What do I have to lose?"
"Maybe no one will show up."
"I can always register under a pseudonym..."
And another idea came "Maybe it won't be embarassing"Then finally, "Maybe I will do better than I expect."
It feels good to race. It feels GOOD to do your best, even if it is not your best ever. It is FUN to be with other runners, doing what they love, with support. It feels incredible to use a gift God gave me.
I am ready for more. Let the season begin!