Describe a vivid or important memory from any time in your adult years.
A memory that really stands out for me is the day I ran my first marathon. I remember every detail. It took place in Columbus, Ohio, it was a really cold morning, and there were over 15,000 runners. I was there with four of my running friends, who I had spent the last five months training with. I remember standing in the crowd waiting for the start, and I was a nervous wreck. I kept thinking "Why did I sign up for this?" and "What if I can't do it?" But I did, and it was the most amazing feeling in the world. I remember being at mile 24 and realizing I only had 2 more to go, and that I was actually going to finish. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would run a marathon. I cried the entire last 2 miles because I was so overwhelmed. I felt so happy, proud, and strong.
Running has really changed my life. It has given me confidence, and the knowledge that I can do anything I set my mind to, as long as I am willing to work hard. It has not only made me stronger physically, but emotionally. Running is my go to when I have had a stressful day or am facing a difficult time. When I was having a particularly rough time a few years ago my running friend gave me some advice that has stuck with me, "We'll just run through it."
Running has also given me an incredible group of friends who have loved me, supported me, and made me laugh for the past 6 years. I don't know what I would do without them. Running has had such a positive impact on my life, and it has inspired me to share it with my students. A fellow teacher and I are starting a girls' running club at our school this spring. I hope that it will give them the same joy it has given me.
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