"My momma always said you can tell a lot about a person by their shoes, where they go, where they've been. I've worn lots of shoes, I bet if I think about it real hard I can remember my first pair of shoes." -Forrest GumpWhen running shoes wear out, it's a quick and ugly process. The first sign that they're coming apart is also usually one of the last. Soon after you notice a problem, they're done for. That's why I'm already beginning to dread the loss of my favorite pair of running shoes to date--these New Balance 719's:
I got them in August of 2008, and somehow they're still holding on. I did some quick math. Say, I average 10 miles a week...that's 104 weeks from when I bought them to August 2010. Then, add another 12 or so to get us where we're at now. So, 116 weeks at an average of 10 miles = 1,160 miles on these guys. They have absolutely molded to my feet; they're like socks with soles on them.
I'm not partial to many physical objects. I use to love all of my baseball cards, autographed baseballs, and collectibles, but none of that really means much to me any more. I also use to love some of my old t-shirts because they reminded me of specific times in my life, but that wore off too. I'm blessed to have received a different perspective on material things. This life is a mist; storing up things down here is as silly as roller skating in a buffalo herd. That's very clear to me these days, and I'm thankful that Jesus has hammered that home to me.
But. If there is one physical item that gets to me, it's this pair of shoes. Running is like therapy. I think about everything when I run: life in general, my finances, school, the job market when I get out of school, my family, my friends, relationships, my biggest fears, my biggest disappointments, my greatest joys...everything. I also pray a ton when I run.
They're just shoes, but I feel like they know more about me than anybody else...except God. Seriously, there are things I think about when I run that I don't tell anybody else. Maybe I should, but I'm thinking everybody has some things that they like to keep to themselves...not bad things, just things they aren't comfortable talking about with other people. Or things they're embarrassed to admit to other people, or things that are too sad to get out when talking to other people. Whatever it may be, I hope I'm not alone here...
Anyway, they're just objects, but I feel like they're the best listeners I've ever had for sure. I run when I get stressed, upset, mad, or sad. It's an awesome release. Eventually, I get to the point where I can't run any more, and then I just walk. When I get done running, it's like my shoes are asking me, "you feel better?" And then, I'm like, "yeah, New Balances, I do. Thanks for asking. Now get off me, and get back in the closet. We'll see ya' in a couple of days." .....Maybe a little bit strange or creepy, but that's how it goes down. Deal with it.
I'm going to miss these guys. I can see the soles starting to peel off towards the side. It'll be a long time before I find a pair this awesome.
