An Invitation to Journey

The first time I went for a run as an adult I was 22, had an extra 30 pounds, and had not established a regular exercise routine since being a high school athlete. It was a humbling experience. I could not complete the first mile, and I nearly died when we hit a set of stairs.

The first time I accepted that perfection was not only impossible, but was a destructive behavior that was controlling my life, I was 32 and on a path toward divorce. It was a humbling experience that brought me to my knees. I could not see a way out of my destruction, and I nearly died when I realized I was the only person responsible for my now less-than-perfect circumstances.

Fast forward to today. "Gratitude" does not even begin to express how blessed I feel to be on a path toward living a healthy life in spirit, mind, and body. I am forever indebted to many people who are walking with me on this journey, and am inviting you along with me in hopes that together, we can help others become holistically healthy. Here's my current status:

Body

I take every opportunity I have on weekends and when traveling to run for any amount of time. I completed my first half-marathon in 2016, and cannot wait for the next one. I aspire to run a mile in less than 8 minutes, and am inspired by amazing female runners in my community and around the world. My favorite thing about being a runner is exploring cities on foot. Going on at least one run is a non-negotiable when I travel.

Mind

I have built and am continuing to build a network of incredible people who influence and teach me about humility, vulnerability, authenticity, imperfection, grace, and unconditional love, and hold me accountable when I'm struggling in these areas. I have reluctantly rescinded my strive for perfection, and as the blog is titled, am running from my perfectionist tendencies as fast as I can.

Spirit

By God's grace and mercy, I walk in relationship with Jesus, and strive to spend time every day listening to His guidance for my life. I have asked His forgiveness for my wrong-doings, and am working toward believing that I am enough, imperfections and all.

My hope for anyone reading this is that you know you are not alone in whatever you're going through, or wherever you are in your pursuit of living a holistically healthy life. Like you, I've experienced shame, humiliation, pain, and sadness, and lived to tell about it. I've also experienced tremendous blessings of which I am undeserving, and live to tell about them. I've learned that both the valleys and the peaks in life bring us closer to others. Letting people into my shame and sadness has deepened my relationships in ways I didn't know possible. And celebrating life's blessings with others has shown me the tremendous goodness in this world.

For the first time, I am attempting to share my story, and am equal parts terrified and hopeful someone might read it, and join me on the journey of life. Thank you for being part of this first.