Running the NY Marathon

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     Maybe my favorite outdoor experience of the semester thus far... I ran the TCS New York City Marathon this past weekend! It was such an enjoyable experience, and although full of man-made structures and industrialism, I was able to catch glimpses of nature that I never would have found otherwise. The day started with an early morning sunrise over the Hudson River, which I caught via. bus ride out to Staten Island. The sky was beautiful, and I was thankful for the chance to start a stressful day with a peaceful moment. 


    On Staten Island, we sat anxiously waiting for the chance to make our way across the first of four bridges that day, each taking us to one of the 5 boroughs of New York City. Before I knew it, we were off along the bridge, watching the Hudson flow beneath us and the sun rise in the sky. Throughout the race, whilst trying to maintain my form and composure, and while taking in the sights around me, I also found peaceful moments. Each bridge offered a respite from the noise, and a chance to look across the skyline. I felt small in those moments, 1/50,000 + runners, and was reminded of my place in the world. My favorite part of the day, however, was the last 5 miles of the race, which bobbed and weaved through Central Park. I was reminded during the race, and the day after as I strolled through with my parents, the importance of a safe place in nature away from the hustle and bustle. Whether it is walking slowly with a loved one, watching the leaves fall, seeing dogs leap at the chance to tough grass, or just sitting under a tree to watch life move slower, nature is healing. It was the perfect place to end the race, and a reminder of what really matters in life. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have run the race with joy, and to see nature at its best.





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