Running A Marathon (But Not As You Know It

This is the first time a monthly theme has left me feeling uncertain about my contribution, and caused me to consider complete avoidance.

But in the spirit of running, I have persevered.

I do not run. At least, not voluntarily. I’m sure I could manage to if I was being chased, or trying to escape something, but it seems I have adopted my uncle’s well known personal mantra of, “I don’t run… for anyone.”

Although I’m not a great lover of running or sport in general, I do like to try from time to time. And I think a great deal of us would like to appear as active, fit and healthy individuals. I often think of a friend who attended a job interview wherein she was asked, “Do you have any hobbies?” To which she replied, “I really enjoy running.” The words just flew out of her mouth. Then she spent the remainder of the interview internally laughing, because she (and all close friends) knew the only place she liked to run was to the bar for a post-work prosecco.

I have tried to include running in my routine, mostly BC - before children. I just can’t commit. During the current lockdown I have been out jogging with my daughter a handful of times, which has been lovely, but I think that’s mainly because I feel like a caged animal and want to run for the hills.

Due to lack of physical running expertise, I’ll touch on alternate definitions of running.

To manage or operate smoothly, without interruption. To flow naturally, like water. I feel both of these meanings carry great relevance in the current circumstances. The running of each household suddenly requires considerable extra attention in order to maintain function. Whether it’s coping with altered working

patterns or lack thereof, managing finances, providing food, adopting the unforeseen role of teacher, or simply refraining from killing a spouse - everyone has been making adjustments for the harmonious running of their households.

It’s strange, because as a home educating family a portion of our learning usually takes place at home, so one might assume this adjustment has transitioned nicely, and relates to our typical everyday routine.

But in total contrast, we’ve had to almost entirely scrap ‘formal’ education in place of a completely free schedule and spontaneity. The emotional range of my children has stunned me.

The highs and lows are quite intense, as I’m sure many families are experiencing while facing such dissimilarity to their everyday ‘normal’.

I have wondered if perhaps my children are struggling more with this lockdown than they might if they usually attended a mainstream school. They are not accustomed to spending any length of time in a repetitive environment.

We usually have the freedom to stop at the park after Spanish class, go trampolining after science group, or visit family following gymnastics. We are acclimated with having a great deal of choice. Limitations and rules are something particularly unfamiliar to us. And so, to deal with the negative effects of this situation we’ve had to be fluid like water, and follow the bends and curves like a running stream. Teaching our children it’s okay to be upset, it’s fine to feel angry, boredom and frustration are acceptable feelings, is all a part of teaching important values which directly connect with running in the physical sense. Endurance and strength.

Pushing forward through the tough times for the purpose of self-improvement and accomplishment. It turns out this doesn’t only summarise the purpose of running, but provides a healthy model for a lifelong attitude.

So, whether you are a runner, or will likely never be a runner (guilty), if you can carry on through these hard times with strength and endurance until you cross the finish line, you will have unknowingly ran a marathon.

Article By Missy Hitchcox

Missy Hitchcox is a Norfolk mother of two. She has a background of English Literature and Creative Writing studies. Her professional career has centred on the Beauty industry, and she now home educates her children.