Lots of new challenges in my run this morning. I ran from my town to the next town over, but this time with a detour to run up and down some stairs and then back on my way to the next town. I was able to get to the next town in just about the same time with the detour as I have in the past without the detour.

In terms of timing, I ran the first 7 minutes without taking a walking break. Then, I ran for 4 minutes and walked for 2, instead of running for 3 minutes and walking for 2. I added an extra minute of running.

The most inspiriational thing that happened on my run this morning? I was just past my detour and my lungs were screaming from having run up and down the stairs. I had been planning to run for 4 minutes and walk for 2 minutes but at that particular moment, I was just about at the 3 minute mark and I began to think that I should walk after 3 minutes. I thought I was just too tired after the stairs. It just so happens that at the same time, there was a group of runners running past me. As the group passed me and I looked at my watch to see if I had reached the 3 minute mark, the last man in the group turned his head toward me as the group ran by. He said, “You’re doing great!” Could he tell that I was just about to give up and start walking after 3 minutes?

Whatever the case, it was just the encouragement that I needed.  I said “Thank you!” as he passed by, and I kept on running until the 4 minute mark. With his encouragement I found the strength and stamina to keep going and keep to my goal of 4 minutes running without stopping to walk.

This brief exchange also showed me that we should never under estimate the power of encouragement and a few kind words.