Let’s consider this an early Father’s Day story….
Yesterday I worked at Fleet Feet, and a guy came in looking all happy and energetic. He was a construction worker – a big burly guy. I asked if I could help him. He smiled, and told me he was interested in running shoes. He had never run except over the weekend; ran three miles, and found he really liked it.
I sat him down, and went through the process….asking about miles run, injuries, anything which would help me fit him with shoes. I took measurements and watched him run. During the process, I asked why he started running. He told me his daughter is a runner in school (“made it to state,” he beamed!!!) He explained that he was running, so he could do something with her. He also said that at 38 he knew he wanted to stay around a long time for her. I thought that was really cool.
I got him into some shoes, and he asked about running clothes. He tried on several items, and asked about all the wicking materials. I told him about the evils of cotton and the importance of dry weave running clothes. He was always smiling and very happy to learn it all.
At the end of the transaction, I asked him if he had any personal running goals. He told me he wants to run a 5K with his daughter. I looked up and printed a couch to 5K plan for him. We also talked a bit about nutrition. He really appreciated all my efforts.
I told him that he must be a really great dad for wanting to do all of this with his daughter. He told me how much he loved her, and just wanted to be sure he was around for many years to come. Before he left, he told me his name was Jim. We shook hands, and I told him to feel free to come back anytime, even if he just has running questions.
I know not all parents are able to share activities with their kids, but this guy really did a lot for parenthood!
:-)Charlie
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