Even simple tasks enrich the heart. .  .

Came across that token some where.  A hymn maybe? One of those calendars or posters you come across in a mall?

There are tasks that we as humans do that are a really big deal.  Even within our own lives.  But most of our time on this planet is spent on mundane, everyday pursuits that are repeated thousands of times over.

Running is kind of like that.  A very mundane (at its essence) activity, repeated thousands of times in pursuit of. . . something. The art of running is simple.  Only made complicated by our own desire to get lost in splits, gear, social media, stickers on cars, and a myriad other distractions.  Finding meaning in the simple acts that lead you to be a better runner is a worthy pursuit by itself.  Even if you only have time for a simple four miler, or just get some work in, show some control and have fruit for a snack, or go easy and stretch instead of an extra mile.  Those tasks themselves will enrich your running soul, and maybe even your life at large.

This is the time of the year where the simplest possible expression of running occurs, cross country.  No even splits, no paced races, no pavement, no standard effort.  Just running across the ground as it comes to us.  The only construct is that white line laid out before you.  It is a constant, tireless reminder of the challenge you are accepting when you lace up your spikes and step to the start line.

Cross country is one of many modern reminders of what we as humans once were.  People that were free to run as they chose, or needed to. It is an event that brings clarity back to your running.  Takes you away from the hubbub of giant marathons.  Overwhelms you with the ludicrous idea of running up THAT hill.  Puts the idea of pacing away for a brief few weeks.  Cross country forces you to just run hard and this is beautiful, wonderful thing.