Yesterday I received an e-mail that made my day. Jake Rosen at Broken Hearted Runner contacted me to let me know that Running Buddy has been named to his list of “Best Running Blogs in the Blogosphere.” Though broken hearts are painful (this I know), the title of Jake’s blog comes from a broken heart of another sort: he was diagnosed with an aortic insufficiency at age 14 that so far has required two heart surgeries, one after his first year of college and one at 23. Yet Jake keeps on running. He’s even finished marathons.
He has a great blog that you should check out, and his story helps to put life in perspective. Yes, we all face challenges every day. Some of them seem insurmountable. But we also have a lot to be thankful about. My knee problem (better yesterday but so-so today) is dragging me down, but it’s hardly a trifle compared to what Jake has overcome. I’m healthy, I have a family who loves me, friends who care about me. I’ve been blessed in so many ways.
I set out to inspire people with this blog, but didn’t expect it to strike a chord, or to be inspired myself, so soon. Sometimes, if life has you down, take a look around. Chances are, you’ll find you have a lot more to be thankful about than you thought.
Thanks, Jake.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Phil, Thanks so much for this post. I’m honored that you would even think of my story as inspiration. I tend to think of myself as just another runner, but I have to remind myself that anybody who consistently puts on their running shoes and challenges themselves can serve to inspire.
What caught my eye about your blog is the perspective you have every day. Its amazing how positive and honest you are with your readers. You clearly have a passion for running and a general zest for life. One post that really caught my eye was your description of the Marin Headlands (http://running-buddy.com/2009/12/06/what-im-missing/) a couple months ago. After reading that post, with the visual descriptions, I was hooked.
Anyway, please keep inspiring and just know your writing certainly motivates me.
It’s my pleasure, Jake. Thanks again to you for your kind words and for reaching out and I’ll be in touch!