Who motivates you to run?

We all find different motivation every single day or lack there of... a'hem.  I am guilty of not always feeling as motivated until after I FINISH LOL.  I'm always super motivated when I finish!!!

One reason I like to go to the YMCA to run is seeing people like this!  For me, since I am blessed enough to be healthy and not overly unfit, I have no excuses.  I see inspiration every time I'm at the Y, from the young mom sweating her stuff while her kids play in the nursery, to the man with one leg who runs with a metal (awesome, cool) hook like the blade runner, to the elderly people who regularly come to walk a little and talk a little!  

One of my biggest inspirations at the Y is this man.  He is a World War II vet and is at the Y every morning at about 5:30am.  He rides the stationary bike or takes a  brisk walk on the treadmill.  Talk about an inspiration!  

Sometimes he wears a shirt that says, "Every day is a bonus!"  Isn't that the truth?

This morning after sweating and huffing and puffing and barely hanging on, in walks my inspiration, smile on his face and a greeting for each of us.  As I was struggling for breath this morning, this man gave me new inspiration to keep running.  I'm sure he has seen far more adversity that I can even comprehend.  I picked up the pace and kept on running!

I asked this kind man if I could take his picture this morning.  He wasn't sure why this sweaty lady, who was a little teary in his presence, was wanting to pose for a picture with him.  But I shared with him that I am lazy, I dread coming, and he inspires me every day that I make it to the Y.  Thank you sir for being a shining star and getting me there!  

Gina