Losing innocence
Flying lost its innocence in 2001. Sadly, it seems we will mark 2013 as the year when running lost its innocence.
There is nothing that is as basic as running. You can do it by yourself. You can do it without any gadgets / tools / equipment. You can do it most anywhere. You do not need a lot of money to run – in fact the poorest countries – Ethiopia, Kenya, Jamaica have produced consistently great runners!
There was a time we ran to catch our food so we could eat. Now we run because of the amount of food we eat 🙂 There was a time mail was delivered by “runners” (running mailman). Now, we have problems running a postal system 🙂
But above all, every runner that you see on the road will tell you that they do it because it is “fun”. Some are competitive, some see it as a social activity – but all see it as a “fun” thing to do.
I should know. I am one. And I know many runners. Starting with my wife. And my closest friend. And my boss…
The important thing is that while some idiot might have taken the innocence out of running, it is up to us to keep the fun in running.
So, if you are a runner – continue to have fun. Go run with somebody you have not run in a long time. Inspire a child to run with you (bribes work more effectively on them 🙂 ) Get your family out for a Sunday run.
If you are not a runner – when you see a runner, do something fun. Lower your windows and wave at them as you drive by. They get a great kick and will wave back.
And if you are a Facebook friend of mine and follow my travels, drop me a note if I am near you if you want to go for a run, try out running or simply talk about running. I will surely be there to have some fun.
Certainly, I lost my memory way back. MEant that flying lost its innocence in 2001
I would like to share this on my page. Thank you.
Very nicely written! So true..especially thinking about the 8 yr old who died was waiting at the finish line to cheer his dad!! We were thinking about you and after we heard the news yesterday the first thing that Murali said was check Rajib’s status..hope he was not in that marathon..
I had a lot of friends running. Most of them are back.
my 18 year old niece was running her first Marathon – She missed the second blast by 1/2 block – . Shaken and terrified – It wont be her last. Hopefully we can convince her to run with the rest of the family in December for White Rock.
I have always maintained that running is injurious to health, but am broadminded enough to allow your point of view 😉 And I think you meant that Flying lost its innocence in 2001.
Great write-up Rajib!!
Well said 🙂
Cheers, Rajib!! Run on!
Rajib, you’ve inspired me — I propose the team at work take an hour or two one day this week (during lunch or one afternoon) and complete a run/walk around the campus at work in honor of those lost and injured in yesterday’s marathon. What do you think?
Wow Rajib Roy very well said!!
Joining you on a run is on my “To Do List”….when I was in Japan I had joined Hash Run few times with my colleagues, surely inspired by your FB posts……Guess I may have to come to Atlanta one of the weekends..!
Have fun ! Run….
Rajib, ever considered writing on the side? This was very therapeutic given the recent tragedy! I’m going for a run this evening :-). Hope all your friends are well though. Having visited Boston often, can’t imagine the site.
What time are you running, Somya? I have already put in my run today but if you run late evening, I might be able to put in a couple of miles with you. I will be home around 7:30.
Well, running on my treadmill due to the pollen. I hope one day to get to your 5 mile 🙂
Rajib Roy we should run the Boston Marathon next year. Amita Vasudeva and I are planning to run the San Francisco run in June…
Yeah, i will be at the finish line to cheer you guys…not sure, which one requires more courage, running, or cheering at the finish line…
Beautiful post Rajib. Beautiful