It happens

I was about 5 minutes into my run when I noticed a familiar feeling. Dread hit me, recalling the absence of restrooms along my path. I refused to go back; it was difficult to break away today and I didn’t want to risk another missed run. I plugging onward, telepathically coaxing my body to hold on.

The friendly attendant in the kiosk waved at me as I ran towards the hill. My legs groaned as the grade immediately steepened. It is hard not to give into walking when you realize that you could probably go just as fast, if not faster, if you were to exchange the run for walking. That always leads to further walking so I avoid it at all costs.

The path rolled downhill for a minute and then resumed the climb, this time on a gravelly old road. I passed a couple who where walking, greeted them and waited for the return greeting. There wasn’t any. I pushed a bit harder, feeling the urge to remedy my issue. I needed to get out of sign. Up ahead there was a runner coming the opposite direction. Hold on, I thought. He passed and I ducked into the only somewhat sheltered place I could find.

With the road in sight, I ducked as low as I could so as not to be seen. I waited, nervous that someone would come. Nothing. I abandoned my efforts and returned to the path. As I continued my run I prayed that my body would continue to hold on until I returned to the office.

Throughout the entire run my pace was cautious. I think it may have been slower than long run pace. Given my challenge of the day, the run was a success.