Act for the people's benefit.
Trust them; leave them alone.
Trust them; leave them alone.
*
~
Our stride is large - every step connects the
world. Yet still we run in private
reaches found in mind and
soul.
The infinite begins at the end of every step.
Trust the nature of the run. Trust the wisdom of our steps. Trust in the preparations made before the run. And trust in the wisdom of others. Running is a solitary activity, its very nature leads to introspection and quiets the mind. Yet even in the farthest reaches of mountains, forest, and desert we never run alone. We are intimately connected with the earth, indeed with all that's living. As we run it's important to remember that our actions - from breath and heartbeat to words we say or keep silent - affect the world. It's subtle, yet no less true and a subtle reach still has great impact. A smile goes a long way - not just to fellow runners but to the world at large and ourselves as well. Smile in appreciation of a sunset and feel the power of the smile along with the warmth of sun that reaches back. Smile at an upcoming hill and the effort becomes a joyful expression of our commitment. When we smile at another runner we join with them in strength - we offer them the best we have in exchange only for their well being. Nothing more may need to be said - our smile, and the power of its nature - is enough.
Peace,
Eric
*
Portion of the Tao Te Ching translated by Stephen Mitchell
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