One Wheezing Woman, 1000 Smiles Saved

…and there I saw the alleviater of my anxiety, angst, and pain – a teacher slowly crawling through the hallway, one hand against a wall for support and the other on her cane. She took three steps, her feet barely leaving the ground, and stopped, sighing to herself while wearing a smile which made her soft wheeze seem less cringe-worthy. With one breath in, she moved forward three more steps and stopped to rest again.

I stood watching with two legs able, a runner’s proud cardiovascular system, and a nagging mind. The past three days left me with little sleep as my school work caught up to me and my training had taken a new turn – draining my energy but preparing me for my last weeks of competition before Districts. It’s times with little sleep and even less energy when negativity preys upon us, the weak.

The clouds seem a little darker, the cold air a little harsher, and the little things seem a whole lot bigger. That morning my backpack fell apart and with every paper that floated to the floor, their soft swaying motions mocking my already on edge state of mind, I fell further into a moment of… rage. And then I laughed and smiled. The truth is, it’s not that bad.

At least I could breathe and walk without a cane.

How often do we let our woes control our mind when instead we could smile and let the pain subside? Why not see the cloud and, instead of loathing the thought of rain, enjoy the thought of Spring flowers blossoming consequently? So many things in our lives are gifts and punishments depending on one’s perspective. Today, I choose to look at my world as one filled with gifts not punishments – and smile.

My calf pain? A sign that I will improve in my next race. My migraines? Proof that I  worked hard during a workout (albeit prepared rather poorly). My almost trip-and-fall down the staircase today? A reminder that I need to lighten up and laugh.

These experiences, whether they’re simple annoyances or aggravating pains from a workout are truly gifts which, when looked at as such, can aid you in getting through many obstacles. I understand that there are some things in life which should not be viewed as gifts, some events are far too serious to be viewed any differently –  Columbine comes to mind almost immediately.

But aside from such major events, what little things in your life are you fretting over that could be making your day instead of destroying it? Or in other words – what gifts have you received today?

The above piece I wrote a few weeks back and revisited today in a time of celebration. Since experiencing my run in with the aforementioned teacher, I have smiled countless times while I could have been frustrated  (hence the 1000 smiles) and I’m smiling again today for good reason.

Tomorrow (Friday) I will be on MSNCB somewhere between 11:30am and 12:00 pm EDT to be interviewed by none other than Thomas Roberts himself. You can say I’m beyond stoked and extremely grateful. I owe the people at Outsports, the Advocate, and all of the fantastic community members/readers a ginormous thank you! Your support made this happen and I am thankful, so very thankful. I hope you all enjoy a great start to your weekends and have a “Happy Friday!”