For The Runner I Love

My wife Beth is a runner and has been for many years.

I have to think really hard to remember what it was like before she started running, but I can recall that she was very different in temperment than she is now. In fact, I think it is accurate to say that she was much more likely to “run away” from me in an argument then, than she is now. Actually, I can’t remember the last time we had an argument which resulted in either of us storming out of the room, but I can easily recall times where we have respectfully disagreed, yet remained calm enough to communicate our differences in a manner which resulted in a synergystic solution.

The greatest advantage to being married to a runner is that it keeps her body youthful and shapely, but at the same time, it fosters a sense of wisdom and maturity in her mental and emotional states. Running has boosted her self-confidence and given her a framework for life which is both positive and constructive. Going for a run when life has dealt her a blow is similar to an addict going to a meeting when there is a trigger for relapse. Running seems like an old friend who can be counted on to be there without judgment or feeling used. I can truthfully say that that I have never seen her come back from a run and feel worse than when she left.

Another amazing thing about her running is that I have never been jealous of the run. Its like a friend of hers who really respects our relationship and has my best interest in mind. I have never been concerned that she would leave me for running or that she would not come back from her run. I never worry about her spending money while she is out for a run, and sometimes she has great stories about people she encounters while she is out.

The only downside to her running is that I can’t keep up with her and we can’t run together as a consequence of that. There was a time when I used to be able to keep up enough to the point where she would be in sight, but the ten years I have on her have taken their toll both on my endurance, and I suppose on my eyesight as well. So I make it a point to never run with her now. It’s easier on an old man’s ego and heart as well.

I recall that a part of our wedding vows were “Grow old with me, the best is yet to be.” They seemed like clever words when we spoke them over 27 years ago. Now I know that as long as we keep running (separately), the best is yet to be, if nothing else when the morning run is over and we meet back at the house to share our breakfast with our really cute and excited dogs.

Ed note: Several weeks ago I asked my husband to write about what its like to live with a woman who runs. This is what he wrote. So beautiful and simple, I just had to share it with you all. As far as spending money goes, I can stuff a lot of bills into my shoe pocket! ;-)

What would your "significant other" say about living with you - his/her woman runner?

Hah! Yeah, it was like pulling teeth getting him to sit down and write it, but I really treasure it. We should all be sure to tell the runner(s) and others in our lives how much they mean to us every day!

Posted by: bmoore on Jan 30, 2012 at 01:26 PM