A good run is a way to get away from it all

In the last couple of years, I guess you could say I've become something of a "runner."

That is, to say, I've grown to have an affinity for getting out and putting my legs to good use from time to time.

I'm not a great runner, mind you. When compared to what I sometimes refer to as "real runners," I'm quite slow, and not able to go great distances.

But I've worked at it, and have reached the point where I can at least run a 5K without being embarrassed or wanting to die afterward.

I still remember the first time I gave running a shot, a couple of years ago. I had rather suddenly become keenly aware of my couch-potato status. It dawned on me that instead of aimlessly surfing through the channels, I could be doing something to make myself a little healthier. The first time I went out for a run, I got no more than about four houses up the street before I felt like I was on the verge of cardiac arrest.

Thankfully, my runs since then have gotten a little bit longer, and a lot more enjoyable. I've tried to think about what it is that make running rewarding. For one thing, there's the sense of accomplishment that comes with it, along with the good feeling that comes with being healthy. But more than that, I think I enjoy running because when you're out there on the road, many of the problems of the world disappear for a while, and all you're left with is your legs below you and the pavement in front of you.

For instance, here are some of the things you DON'T think about when on a nice long run:

— Iran's nuclear ambitions
— The latest figures related to the nation's jobless rate, retail sales growth or stock market performance
— The future of the Mississippi County hospital system
— National health care, Sen. Max Baucus or the public option
— The price of oil, and how it will effect gas prices
— Carol White and the Blytheville City Council
— Jon and Kate
— Where Osama bin Laden is
— The overall condition of local parks
— Glenn Beck
— Who David Letterman has had sex with
— The H1N1 virus
— The fate of Roman Polanski
— The cafeteria at Central Elementary School
— Anything having to do with the West Memphis 3

Conversely, here are some of the things you DO think about:

— Wind
— Rain
— Your legs
— Your knees
— Your feet
— Your heart
— Your lungs
— The pavement
— Goose poop (if running at Walker Park or the Youth Sportsplex).
— Sun
— Sweat

The point is, running cuts you down to the basics. It's a great way to escape the confines of reality, and to get healthy along the way.

Anyone looking to go running (or walking) with fellow citizens, ought to check out the 5K Family Fun Run and 2K Walk, set for 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17. The entry fee is only $20, and all participants get a t-shirt and a chili-tasting ticket that be used during the chili cookoff being held later that day. Registration can also be made online at www.racesonline.com through Oct. 13. Individuals can also enter on the day of the race (for $30) beginning at 6:30. Participants will meet on the parking lot of the Great River Medical Center.

Running, or even just walking, is a great way to get out, get healthy and get away from it all. Everyone ought to give it a try.