09.28.09
Running With the Big Dogs
This week’s Comedy Around the World goes everywhere, running with big dogs. When I started running, I was the typical lone long-distance runner. Mainly because no one wanted to run 6 miles.
The problem was that I didn’t have a dog to run with me. I live in the country (yes, THIS country), and so my running terrain is strewn with dogs.
After several near-misses and several actual bites, I devised a strategy. As I neared a house, I would look by the side of the road for a big stick. This always worked to keep the barking, chasing dog at a distance. But it was a struggle. And a constant source of anxiety. I knew I wasn’t completely protected.
Then, I got even smarter: I started running with my OWN dog. Now I had a buffer zone between me and certain dog bites. I had a protector who would fight the other dogs so I could be safe. I could now focus on my running and speedwork and enjoy the time doing so.
Guess what–HUMOR operates much the same way.
When we have to worry about protecting ourselves, we become serious. Competitive. We are on edge. Just like I was, dog-less and looking for sticks. We can’t relax. We can’t focus. We can’t possibly enjoy life.
But, humor acts like a protective force-field around us. It’s a buffer between us and the bites and barks of stress in our lives. The bad attitudes of people around us don’t bother us as much, because humor fends them off. We can run softly and not have to carry a big stick. We can feel freedom, peace of mind, and enjoyment.
Who will YOU take with you to run through your week?
