[+] I have no choice. I must run.

Running as a Calling

How do you know a habit?
When you do something regularly.

How do you know a passion?
When you do something regularly and with joy.

And how do you know a Calling?
When you have no choice.

(Photo by Phil Pham)

I admit that these definitions are a bit exaggerated, but they explain very well how differently we understand, feel and practice running. None of this is meant to be judgmental. Whether it's a habit, a passion, or a Calling, it's always a great thing when people run. In fact, everyone should run. Running is good. But sometimes we realize that even though we are engaging in the same activity, we are often ticking very differently and not talking about the same thing.

It's not in my interest to create an "us versus them" situation. And yet I find that sometimes I meet "those" runners and sometimes I meet "other" runners. As I said, without judgment. But I feel an immediate connection with those for whom running is more than a hobby or a pastime. It is their Calling.