I'm Not a Runner

I have heard so many people respond to my running with, "I'm not a runner." They say they could never run; that they just weren't built for it. Or, that their legs are shorter than mine, so they could never keep up. I usually don't say much, but I am thinking it...I could have an argument against every excuse I've ever heard. For example, I would say that my long legs just mean that it takes more effort to keep moving them. But the thing I do end up saying the most is that, "I wasn't a runner either." No one is born running. I thought it was an unnatural thing to do and I had no desire. Oh, and it was hard. Much of the time it still is. I even thought that I had exercise-induced asthma, but realized at some point that the problem wasn't asthma; I couldn't breathe because I wasn't in shape for running! I call myself a "runner" now, but not because I'm the fastest or because I do it everyday, but because I run. I can't compare my speed or my distances to anyone else because I will always find plenty of people that do better than I do. I have plenty of excuses not to run...the weather is my biggest, but also because I have come back battered and bruised, weak and dizzy, and definitely smelly. But I don't do excuses. I have way more reasons to run than excuses not to. I feel like I've conquered something (and I have!); I feel strong (even when I am weak!); and it helps me remain healthy. Although it makes me tired, it's how I am able to keep up with my two little boys. And most importantly, running inspires me. It's my chance to get away from everything else. It's sometimes the only alone time I can get with God without distractions from a little monkey at my feet yelling, "Mama!" God gives me some of the most clear directions I've ever gotten while I'm running. It's not only exercise for my body but for my mind. I get practice of calling on God while I'm extremely weak. Even on days that I run with a friend, it's inspirational. I choose my company wisely and on purpose. I run with a dear friend who I know God speaks wisdom through. I don't just go run, I run on purpose. And there are so many comparisons I have experienced between running and living. Just like my running, I try to live on purpose, and that includes making conscious choices of where I spend my time, who I am with, making no excuses, what conversations I have, to keep going even when I'm exhausted, to get back up after I fall, to always aim for my personal best, to push myself, to prove to myself that I'm determined and dedicated, and most importantly, to let God do the leading because I am weak and He is strong. Soooo much more to come on my life lessons from running, but in the mean time, what do you do to strengthen your character, to push yourself? Where do you go to spend time alone with God? What do you do on a regular basis to stay inspired? You certainly don't need to choose running like I did, but what are you choosing?