I usually run along streets and well-groomed trails. Occasionally, especially during the fall and winter, I will encounter small clumps or piles of leaves that have gathered. I can’t tell you how many times I have stepped on one of those piles only to find out that underneath there is a rock, stick, or a dip in the ground just large enough to create some discomfort or cause a temporary disruption in my rhythm. Fortunately, I have had nothing more than a bruise on the sole of my food, or a momentary loss of balance, but these occurrences have gotten me to thinking about the nature of hidden difficulties and obstacles.
The more I thought about it, I realized that those leaves sometimes end up where they are due to random changes in wind or rain. However, sometimes they stay in a certain location because of a small change in elevation, or because some heavier object is keeping them in place. Now, when I come upon a pile of leaves, I am aware that what looks harmless may in fact cause difficulty. If it’s convenient and doesn’t cause much disruption, I will step over or around the leaves. At the very least I remember that there might be something unseen, and I am ready to adjust and maintain my focus to reduce the chances of some problem.
I am not saying that every time you run, you need to be scared that something is going to happen to you. The main benefits of running has to do with a sense of health, freedom, accomplishment, and yes, peace, that comes from running (or any fitness activity). It does no good to run while being scared that something is going to happen to you. What I am talking about is awareness of where you are going and what you are doing. Be aware of your form, your rhythm, and the way you are completing your run. Also, know your surroundings. Maintain focus so that small obstacles don’t detract from the enjoyment of your activity.
It works the same in all areas of life. It’s easy to see the big problems and threats in work, family life, health, etc. However, we are more likely to get disrupted by smaller obstacles that we did not see, and then we fail to maintain our balance, leading to further problems. As Martin Luther said back in the 1500s, it’s not necessary for us to look for the Devil “under every rock.” We are not to live in fear of problems or obstacles. However, we need to have a health respect of our surroundings and environment. Try to live in harmony with the world around you, and try to not get tripped by hidden obstacles. Life works much better that way 😊.
Fitness and Life 