foam spoon

“There are clubs you can’t belong to, neighborhoods you can’t live in, schools you can’t get into, but the roads are always open.” Nike

“I think there is no better way to invite a human being to view their body differently than by inviting them to be an athlete, by revering one’s body as an instrument rather than just an ornament. It’s a really great way to reorient how you see your body so you can see it as this incredible, awe-inspiring machine that you need to fuel well in order for it to function.” Alanis Morissette, via Runnersworld.com

“Running has given me the courage to start, the determination to keep trying, and the childlike spirit to have fun along the way. Run often and run long, but never outrun your joy of running.” Julie Isphording

“There are no standards and no possible victories except the joy you are living while dancing your run. You are not running for some future reward-the real reward is now!” Fred Rohe

“Running, one might say, is basically an absurd past-time upon which to be exhausting ourselves. But if you can find meaning, in the kind of running you have to do to stay on this team, chances are you will be able to find meaning in another absurd past-time: Life.” Bill Boweman

“The marathon is now a cultural event, an activity that has truly become communally based. I love the endorphins, the sense of well-being, the boost to brain function, and the sense of immersion. And I love belonging to a world and community that is larger than myself.” Leslie Heywood

“Running has helped me process it all. The old photos, letters, and papers, the potholes and speedbumps along memory lane, the realization that my children are indeed growing up way too fast, it’s sometimes too much and I need to get out of my head and house and into the fresh air. My run recalibrates me, resets me, and refreshes me to return to base and keep working.” Kristin Armstrong

“I don’t need to reward myself after a run. For me, putting in a long run is reward enough for a hard week. That said, I do have a cupcake waiting for me after today’s run.” Emily Proctar, actress

“The challenge and the energy running requires may be a selfish one, but it actually motivates me to be stronger in my relationships.” Joan Benoit Samuelson

“Your body will argue that there is no justifiable reason to continue. Your only recourse is to call on your spirit, which fortunately functions independently of logic.” Tim Noakes, author of Lore of Running

“Whatever you may be missing right now - a person, a place, a feeling, maybe you are injured and missing running - whatever it is, have peace and take heart - remember that any goodbye makes room for a hello.” Kristin Armstrong, Runner & Author (via Runners World)

“Play not only keeps us young but also maintains our perspective about the relative seriousness of things. Running is play, for even if we try hard to do well at it, it is a relief from everyday cares.” Jim Fixx (via Runner’s World)

“When you have the enthusiasm and the passion, you end up figuring how to excel.” Deena Kastor