About a year ago I wrote about a long hot run in the hills that stretch from behind our neighborhood... how it was a time of renewal and prayer. Well, yesterday I decided it was time to do that again, so about 10:00 I headed out for what proved to be a rather warm 80 minutes or so on some hilly trails, heading over the hill to Contra Loma Regional Park (image) and on to the hills beyond. I ran what is called the "Old Homestead Loop" and back through the park home.
It was pretty warm, so I'm glad I carried water. Also, some of the hills are pretty steep, so I ran slow and walked when I needed to on the long uphill stretches. It was a good workout, but that's not really why I did it.
Years ago, my running was "training"... improving my level of fitness to run faster races. Now, I never was in danger of being the fastest 10K runner around, but I always wanted to improve. For the last 16 or so years, running has been more about other things... heart health... weight control... solitary time to think and pray. That last one was what my time in the hills was about yesterday... one of the few times in my life when I get away for awhile to spend time alone with God... just Him and me... and, of course, all the critters He created to keep us company. Thankfully, yesterday I didn't see any rattlesnakes. :-)
I highly recommend such alone times out in creation, whether you're running in the hills, biking or hiking, sitting in the back yard, or just looking out a window. There's just something about those times that are... well... serene is a good word. And those times are good for me as I share my thoughts and concerns with God, listen for thoughts and ideas He sends my way, and just appreciate the wonder of the created world. It's one way He renews me and I renew my relationship with Him.
However... it is more fun and just as inspiring when it's cooler... also a good thing to remember. Blessings!
2 comments:
This heat is wicked! We were driving back from Leslie's house last night at 10:00 pm (jr. high movie night) and it was 94 degrees out! I don't see how you get out and actually *run* in this heat.
Good morning Rick it was fun reading your blog didn't know you were still a power runner 18 miles of hill country wow! keep up the good work running and also just being with God best time to do it is when you are around nature. I read your blog every now and then. I forget I have it what can I say some timers. Sounds like you guys are great grandparents. The pics you showed are awesome. Hope to see some of them some day.
Louise
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