Sometimes the Appreciation is Humbling

Yesterday I got to work as our fun run was wrapping up. For those who don't know what a fun run is, it is a casual run, usually held at a running store, for people to get together just to go for a run. As I entered the store, one of the usual runners greeted me. He introduced me to a a new runner to the group, "This is Charlie. He is one of the best people here. He is truly an inspirational guy."

I thanked him for his kind words, and I told him that I really didn't do anything. What I didn't realize was that he has heard me speak to people about my running, and he told me that he considers me a running inspiration. A couple years ago, he told me how he was undecided about running a certain race, and I encouraged him to do it. He did, and he felt he couldn't have done it without that encouragement. I blushed and told him that meant a lot to me.

I am truly humbled when someone tells me a story like this. I just figured I run, and talk about running. If someone is inspired or encouraged, I think that is terrific, but I also think we have that opportunity to encourage people to run and achieve their goals. I consider it giving back to our sport.

I smiled the rest of the day.

Charlie