Running Community

Many of you know that I was a pretty avid runner back in the day and only recently came to accept the fact that I will not always be a runner, although I will do my darned best to run as long as I can. When I first came to Madagascar, I pondered about how I was going to be able to run because I live in the city. I did manage to get about a dozen runs in during the first few months, making sure I timed them right and went to the safest places. But honestly it’s just too dangerous with the traffic, being alone, getting harassed, and who else knows what on the street. The last straw for me was when I almost got hit by a car that cut directly in front of me. I had to jump, put my hands on the back side of the car, and push myself back to make sure I didn’t run right into it. The athletic feat was actually pretty impressive (dare I say badass). Nonetheless, the fact that I was almost hit by a car on a not very busy road as it was turning into a hospital of all places made me realize, “This just isn’t the place to run.”

Thus, I invested in a small stationary bike, which I hated, but it did its job because I only intended to live here for 9 months (that was 17 months ago). When I found out I had won a grant-extension, I decided it was time to buy a treadmill so I could continue running. I hate treadmills, always will. But this one does its job and lets me run as much as I need. Nonetheless, I discovered a running club at the embassy who regularly runs on the outskirts of the city where it is much more beautiful and much less crowded.

The embassy running club is interesting. They typically go over-distances (8-15 miles) which is much further than I would ever normally run on my own. But they go slow enough that it’s just kind of fun and not really exhausting for me. They think it’s crazy that on my own I am doubling their speed, but I also ran competitively for the majority of my young life. Joining their running club has been fun and honestly uplifting.

I can only meet up with them on Saturdays because of my work schedule. Nonetheless, meeting embassy staff, Malagasy from local organizations and partnerships, and other foreigners from NGOs and Peace Corps is a great time. We always have great conversation on the runs and it builds a strong community. Here in Madagascar I do a presentation on the concept of American volunteerism and the idea of voluntary associations, like running clubs, and I am always firm believer in small organizations like that making big differences. We are, after all, social and embodied beings. We need to be with each other, not digitally, but physically in a real and tangible place. That’s where fellowship blossoms and where truly solidarity lies.

Anyways, enjoy some of our photos (credited to my fellow runners because I’m no photographer). And enjoy the video of my friend Hoby (pronounced who-bee) being chased by a goat after he selflessly got it’s attention when the animal intended to attack someone holding a baby.

As always, know that you are in my prayers each morning. All I ask is that you do the same for me.

May God be praised.

P.S. Speaking of community, here is also a photo of some of my nun friends and I on our way back from mass one Sunday.