Who said compassion was dead?

I attended a local running event last evening and came away with a great feeling. The event was an off road 5K run around the grounds of a produce farm. Sounds like an enjoyable little romp thru the fields, however, I can assure you that off road running is a higher scale of difficulty than street running. Trust me! I am betting there are a few folks with some sore lower legs today!

If you ever want to witness human compassion in motion, attend a running event. Of course, the gun goes off and it appears to be every person for themselves. Yes, there is a lot of that. In most events, there are trophies to be won and age group titles on the line. It can be very competitive! If you look through all of this, you will see another environment altogether.

This event was sponsored by the local YMCA. The Y is all about family & community so a lot of Mommies, Daddies and kids were in attendance; some running their first 5K and doing so together. In my eyes, it's hard to top hearing the encouragement of a parent running (or walking) along side their child. Always gives me a warm feeling inside!

Being a local running coach, I knew or recognized many of those that attended. There was a large group (6-8) of women that came in together and were in the back of the pack. They mostly walked, however, they were upbeat, chatty, and full of motivation for each other. As I watched them approach the finish, most of the focus appeared to be directed at one member of their group. Just a few feet from the end, they began to jog and crossed the line together. Hugs and high fives all around; heck I even joined in!

Of the 200+ runners/walkers in attendance, it would be interesting to know the percentage that may not have entered had they not been encouraged. What percentage of those that entered may not have finished without positive praise from others? I've been around long enough to know that those numbers may surprise you!

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