It's funny how this question comes out in conversation. Are you STILL running? With emphasis on the STILL.
Invariably, it's a question I hear from someone who I haven't seen in some time. That makes sense, I suppose. I guess it is fair to say that there are not that many folks in their sixtieth year who run an average of 20 miles a week.
And sure, when I do hear that phrase, it strikes me as someone thinking out loud. If one of my friends and acquaintances says "Are You STILL Running?" ten of them of are thinking it, in the spirit of a pal who blurts out something nervy, then says, "Oh, my, did I just say that out loud?"
But, if you think about it, they don't say, "Are you STILL smoking?," or "Are you STILL sniffling from allergies?," or "Are you STILL living on First Street?" (although they will still say, "Are you STILL working at The Post?", which says as much about the politics of my neighborhood than anything.)
The STILL says it all. That with grace and self-respect I will finally give up this unlikely pursuit of running and turn my hand to more age-appropriate exercises, like, say, lawn bowling or, if I must, doubles tennis.
It's hard to keep that tinge of judgment out of our tone, much less out of our minds. But it could be worth a try.
Next: Running for Your Life: Core Principles
