Running smile

I'm sure you've heard the term "running joke." It's a literary device where a "funny" appears repeatedly throughout a work of literature, storytelling, or life events.

How about a running smile? A way to position the face when out for a run or walk.

While on my run this morning I came across this young woman who was beaming from ear to ear. I don't know if she was happy about running or something else, but it was contagious! You couldn't help but look at her and not break into a wide-toothed grin.

I've often been told it is helpful to smile while running. Even if you don't feel like it, it can help the miles go better. Of course, this reminded me I usually do NOT smile when I run. I slog along waiting for my watch to tell me I'm done so I can then mope through the rest of my day.

There is quite a lot to smile about when running though. If no other reason than the beauty of nature and the mere fact one can get out and move in the first place. Good (or mediocre) health, living in a time and place where we can freely do such activities, having a job and family and friends, even simply being alive is something to enjoy.

So today I smiled while I ran. I decided beforehand I didn't want to "time" my run, but just go at a "comfortable" pace. I really don't need to run fast. And it was a beautiful day... I'd gotten to sleep in until 6:30 this morning... I really did have reason to be happy. And I was.

Sometimes I have to remind myself to smile... because maybe things aren't as bad as I think they are.

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Proverbs 15:30
"A cheerful look brings joy to the heart; good news makes for good health."