Does Our "Why" Evolve?

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?