I am writing on my blog instead of my journal, which I've heard some say that is a true sign of a "blogger". Ok, I admit I've been inducted into the world of internetifying my life, but I spend enough time in front of the computer, it's convenient.
A normal day, returning from work at the sizzler at about 10:30. I talked on the phone with dad for a bit as I recounted detailed memories of broken plates and stunned children watching the chards fly about the kitchen. I almost felt bad talking about it because Dad was laughing so hard and coughing from being sick I thought he might be choking. Hindsight is so awesome. The conversation evolved to the subject that constantly reminds me of one thing- Heavenly Father loves me enough to let the powers of entropy do all it can to keep my car off the road. I grow stronger with every penny I spend on that beloved ball and chain.
After talking to dad, I sat down in front of my computer to finish some newspaper ads for a 5k walk/run at UVSC. I instinctively reached for the tv remote to provide myself with some ambient noise (that usually ends up being a distraction). Right as I was about to push the power button to open the valve of filth and dirty humor, I looked at the ad, and though- "no, I'm going to finish these and do something constructive. I tossed down the remote and fished the ads in silence, then decided to go for a run (it's finally warm enough!). I prepared, stretched, strapped on my running shoes (bought in alaska at the advice of my good friends), then checked my watch right as I was leaving my apartment. 11:58 pm. A thoughtful grin. The phrase popped into my mind, "Only fools run at midnight". I was taken back to that amazing rainy night when I ran a 5k in Ketchikan with Cassidy and Tyleen. Every memory I have of Alaska brings such swells of happiness and excitement to me, it overpowers the sadness brought by nostalgia.
As I made my way over the freeway toward campus, I realized why I loved running so much in Alaska- the elevation. My lungs scream at me when I run in Utah. I ran over the freeway and ran a lap around campus. While running, I thought about happiness, or at least positive thinking. My institute lesson today taught that "I do not see the world as it is, I see it as I am". Many people develop the mindset of- "my life will finally be good when ____" (graduate, marriage, etc). This is habituated state of mind that is not cured by reaching those landmarks. One has to be positive and happy with his life now and then he will be in the habit of positive thinking no matter his situation.
As I ran, I reflected on one of the most rewarding, happy times in my life; finishing a 5 mile run in Ketchikan (at sea level), then getting cleaned up and walking the few blocks with some of my best friends to work at the Cape Fox restaurant. For some reason that specific image stands out. Why was the summer in alaska one of the happiest times in my life? Because I ran. I ran every day. I am reminded of this every time I run. Running forces the juices of optimism to flow through my body. Although a short 30 minute run is not that significant in terms of the span of my existence, it helps me to remember what is really important. Optimism, Running.
6 comments:
beautiful jared
This is Tyleen... thank you for taking the time to write that. remembering how good it feels to run is something that i too forget how much it helps until i am doing it. We all need to find the things that make us feel good and force ourselves to make time to do them. alaska was amazing wasn't it? some of my fondest memories...
Loved reading this (I finally sat down and made the time). So good to hear your thoughts written down. When any of us write, sometimes is just sounds better than when we talk.. we end on a happier note maybe.. anyway, I didn't know you used words like 'entropy'. Impressive, Jarie, I must say.
I love your blog. and your Photography and website are AMAZING. I have enjoyed looking at them all day today. This blog reminds me how much I enjoy running or doing solo exersize. Being here in Eureka I havent taken as many chances to just have alone time as I used to when I lived in Southern Humboldt out in the woods. I remember being little going on long walks in the woods. It really reconnects us with Heavenly Father. The time is great to be able to just clear your mind. I love being able to hike in the Redwoods or walk on the beach alone or with that special someone. Your blog also reminded me how long it has been since I spoke to your father. I think I am going to give him a call in the next few days. Give him an update on things. If you speak to him before I do tell him I said Hi! (this is my second time writing this for some reason the first time it deleted it and didnt post it.)
I think I got here by way of Sarah Smylie and for that I am grateful. Thanks for the pep talk. you're right about happiness and optimism I'm not too sure about running. Maybe one day I too will understand. Again Thanks.
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