I Prefer the Dark

Most weekdays, I go running WAY early. It is usually nice and dark when I head out. It is also nice and quiet -- no other runners around. I've decided I make a much better solitary runner because I'm so stinking competitive. Whenever I see another runner, I ALWAYS compare my speed to hers/his. I also ALWAYS think I need to be faster than she/he. I believe I've mentioned before that I am not a fast runner, but I certainly tend to think I'm Marian Jones when it comes to another runner in my path. Sometimes it takes all of my conscious effort to stop my brain from thinking that I need to outrun the unsuspecting foe. The worst is when I get passed, especially when the person who passes me seems to be running at a turtle's pace, because of course that means that I am running at much slower than a turtle's pace. On Saturday, I was injured and was super, extra, way slow. Everyone passed me - the old guy, the one chubbier than I, the one with a dog, the soccer player, and the super sprinter. I had to concentrate on my book, think of taking it easy on my leg, and cheer those runners on. Good for them for getting out of bed! Good for them for running faster than I was running! Good for them for not turning around to stick out their tongues and mock me!