Running is hard.

Sometimes I forget that running is supposed to be hard. I'm blessed with a very healthy body that is built for this sport, but even I struggle. Since I got back from the Del Sol race, I've had a really hard time. I've been running in the morning a lot. I love it because I get it done and out of the way, plus I get to have the evenings with my family. However, it kicks my butt. I slow down by about a minute/mile- which is A LOT- and I always feel like I just struggle through my run.

It's very frustrating. I want it to be easy.

Then I think of that very cliche quote that is used in reference to our journey on this Earth- "I never said it would be easy, I only said it would be worth it."

I grew up in a family with parents that set a good example of hard work. My Dad worked day in and day out at a job that was horrid, but he did it to provide for his family that he loved. It was worth it because he helped us to live a happy life. We were taught to work in the garden, pick up after ourselves, and to treat others were kindness and respect (even when we weren't being treated that way). Although I threw many a tantrum at weeding and cleaning bathrooms, it was worth it because it taught me to be responsible.

They taught me that things don't just come easy, and that I have to work at things to make them happen.

I guess what I'm saying is that running is hard. That's what makes it worth it- because I have to work at it. Even though I'm not getting the results I want right now, it doesn't mean that in a month I won't be able to run under a 7 minute pace for my first leg in the Wasatch Back, or that I won't be able to power up Guardsman nonstop.

I'll get there. I'll keep working at it. It will be worth it.