The Run :)

I am so happy to announce that I went for my first real run today.  That makes it sound as if I have gone on fake runs in the past, which is not true, rather I guess that was just a way to emphasize the fact that I went running…  But those of you who know me know that exercising has become quite a great stress reliever and a source of joy in my life.  For the first few weeks here, I did nothing.  I knew I wanted to find ways to continue to exercise, but the great amount of changes and business of school changed my priorities for a time.  After spending some time reflecting on how important it is to take care of myself if I am going to be able to help take care of my students, I decided it was time to get back on track. 

So out I went around 5:30 with hopes of catching a nice sunset at the top of the mountain.  I headed out of the house, which is located on a very steep street, and went up.  After about 30 seconds, I felt my muscles aching, my lungs burning, and it felt like there wasn’t enough air for me to breathe.  What a great feeling!  So I kept going, went downhill for a ways, and waved at many staring people.  I have never seen anyone going for a run around here, so it must be a pretty funny sight for them to see.  But then, I saw a group of 4 little kids up ahead.  If I could only understand what they were saying, I can imagine it was quite hilarious.  But the stared, so I gave them all high fives (which most people around here do not understand the concept of, but I have been doing my best to introduce it) and then kept running.  I just heard giggling and talking as I left them.  Then I headed up a back-road that leads to the top of the mountain.  It curls around the mountain a time or two, then ends up on top where there is a large water reservoir.  When I finally made it to the top, I just stood and watched the orange and yellow sun set behind the beautiful mountains, making for a stunning display of light and color.  The clouds added a nice touch, and I was so content.  Then back down I went, and decided to take a right to go a little further down the mountain before heading back up again to the house.  And sure enough, there was the same group of kids playing a little further down.  So I ran past them one more time, this time a little more out of breath, sweaty, and red. When I was just a few meters away, I see them start jumping up and down cheering me on, clapping and smiling at me as I pass.  I started laughing, they were so cute!  I have never felt so cheered on as I ran before, it was pretty sweet.  Oh the joy that innocent, non-judgmental children can bring.

Back at the house, the family was instantly worried about how red my face was.  Did someone beat you?  Did you fall?  Why are you so red?  And again, for what seems like the hundredth time, I just laugh, smile, and say “just another joy of having white skin!”  But now, as I sit here typing, I can see the lights of the nearby village shining from my bedroom window, and can see the stars up above twinkling as well.  I am so thankful for the natural beauty of this place, and am glad I was able to experience it in a new way today.