Positive Results by Sabrina

We always think it’s just us. But we forget, we’re all us!

As a curvy, back-of-the-pack, masters runner, I’ve had a lot of fears about running, running with other people, joining run clubs and racing. I have been very vocal about these fears over the last year. Mostly because as I share, I’m realizing it’s becoming easier for other people to share. 

“I know it’s easy for other people to look at me and think they can predict my abilities, fitness and accomplishments…” It’s just me. I don’t look the part so others assume I don’t belong here.

The thing is, we’re all just us. At some point, in some way, we’ve all had fears and many of us have been made to feel like we don’t belong in the spaces we want to occupy.

All of my adult life, I’ve had friends who fit the physical mold of what athleticism should look like yet I could out walk them or outlast them on the dance floor.

As a Coach, I meet people regularly who have to fight the preconceived notions that people associate with their bodies. News Flash: Skinny doesn’t mean fit. Fat doesn’t mean unable. Our outward appearances tell you almost nothing about our abilities, desire and willpower. 

I think it’s just me because I’ve been a curvy person all of my life. At this point in my life, my goals truly have nothing to do with size or weight. Most days they have nothing to do with speed. My goal is to build safe spaces. But it’s not just me. 

I have an athlete who is rebuilding his life after suffering a major stroke and infection that changed every part of his body, mind and spirit. If you saw him run, you’d never know that within the last decade he’s had to relearn to walk and talk. He’s a strong runner now, tall and lean, displaying the outward strength that many of us crave and in the last year he’s felt the same rejection from run groups that I have.

A friend sampled a new gym this week. She invited her new trainer to join our run group only to find out she too was scared. “It’s so surprising to hear someone so incredibly fit has been hesitant to show up to a run group because she’s afraid she can’t keep up.” We’re all us.

There’s power in learning that we’re not alone. There’s strength in realizing that the battles you are waging are being fought by so many people around you as well. And when we ban together, we can achieve so much more!

I will not lie and say that it’s easy to share my story. This is years of growth, therapy and work. I carry the pain of the catcalls and doubters and judgement that has been thrown my way but I choose to let it make me stronger. I choose to keep my eyes and heart open for opportunities to help other people. I choose to surround myself with warriors that are fighting the same battles and also who are brave enough to be on the front lines to help other people in their battles.

If you’re one of us, raise your hand. If you’re ready to stand up for others that feel alone, let’s walk together. If you need someone to take your hand and help you show up, we’re here, let’s talk. 

You’re not alone. We’re all us!