Sometimes You Gotta Run

I’m just about to head back to the airport and fly home to Phoenix. I spent an extra day in southern California with my cousins after my speaking engagement Monday night. I’ve mentioned their awesome kids before. It’s always a joy to be with them.

Yesterday, just before an afternoon that included a trip to the matinee, feeding ducks at the park, a trip to ice cream, and even more playtime with more cousins, we prepared. Mikayla, my cousins’ almost three-year-old daughter helped out. In a few moments, something became evident.

She ran.

She ran everywhere in the house.
She ran to get a blanket for her baby brother.
She ran to get to get a drink of water.
She ran to change out of her pajamas.

Later at the park, she ran.
She ran to the swings.
She ran to the ducks.
She ran to the slides.

Often times, her running combined with a call, “C’Mon (insert name of person she wanted to play with)!”

As I walked behind her (okay, I jogged a few times alongside her), I found myself admiring not only the energy, but also the approach.

I can’t remember the last time I ran for anything other than exercise. I can’t remember the last time I made a chore a quick task.

I think I tend to walk through life.

I’m not saying Mikayla always runs.
She definitely walked away from the park.
She definitely walked when it was time to say goodbye to her cousins.
She definitely walked to bedtime.

And that’s just it. She walked to a handful of things she didn’t want to do…

…and I find myself walking to things I love doing.

Are you walking or running through life?

I’m not saying we all need to begin a sprint. I think there is something to be said about enjoying the scenery, but I also believe there is something to be said about approaching life with some playful energy.

Are you just strolling through your days, or are you finding the ways to encourage those around you to “C’mon!”

I’ll try and put a little bounce in my step, Mikayla.

Thanks for the lesson!