Do you have a "why" that has changed or evolved?
Running was something I dreaded as a kid. It was often used as punishment by my coaches. After physical therapy school, I knew I should exercise to be healthy. Running was a cheap and efficient option so I started running as my dreaded form of exercise. The "why" behind my motivation was to "practice what I preach" and be as healthy as possible. However, I didn't want to do it. People would say things like, "if you just stick with it for three months, it will become a habit and will not be difficult." Three months passed and it didn't get easier.. In fact, six months, 12 months, and two years passed and it never got easier. I actually dreaded it for about two and a half years!
However, over time, running became enjoyable. About three to four years into my training, I began to experience closeness with God during my run.. I began to have meaningful time where I felt like He was truly with me. I learned how to pray during that time, listened to spiritual podcasts, learned to listen to Him and memorize His word. Running became something I wouldn't want to miss.
Now, if I don't run, I get grumpy and feel like something is missing. My "why", as it relates to running, has moved from my mind to my heart. It has evolved from a mental conviction to a personal and heart felt part of who I am.
My running "why" evolved. Is our spiritual "why" similar?
