Today, I ran 5 miles. For the first time…
That is a pretty long way, for a girl who was completely useless after 30 seconds of jogging 4.5 months ago. 
As I was running the final .25 or so, I started to get a lump in my throat, and a sting behind my eyes. Funnily enough, my almost-tears nearly ruined my breathing, my chest got so tight. Later, as I was sharing my joy with Daron, he made me start wondering.
Why would I cry? Why be overwhelmed by my accomplishments? Will I continue to be shocked every time I set a new personal record or personal distance record?
I feel like every little goal, every new quarter of a mile, every achievement is like climbing Everest… and I’m shocked, amazed, humbled, and proud when I do.
I am a person who has NEVER done anything like this before…
I’ve come to realize that there were a lot of things that I was good at as a younger person, and I don’t think I really ever took anything on that was a challenge. Only now, as a 25 year old, am I finally finding the joy and inherent rewards found in pushing myself.
Fitness and athleticism do not come naturally to me, I am not gifted in these areas, I do not have a competitive spirit, I have to fight for every. single. step… every stride…
Maybe one day I’ll come to expect my successes. But for now, I’m in awe… and I’m proud.
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YOU.ROCK.GIRL!!!!
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Oh you’re going to rock your 5k if you’re already running 5 miles! I only just ran that distance yesterday during my 10k! You’re doing great, Kelsey!
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that’s truly incredible! congratulations!
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Congratulations! That’s a huge accomplishment! I don’t think it’s silly at all that you get emotional and excited about your new milestones. I’m the same way, and I think it’s encouraging and helps keep me motivated. Keep up the AWESOME work!!!
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Yay, yay, yay!
A million congrats, Kels! Amazing job.
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I’m proud of you Kels! You deserve it! Keep up the good work.
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I think it’s a good sign to become overwhelmed by such an accomplishment! I am only a few years older than you, but was pretty much the same age when I found a love for pushing myself, testing the limits, and pushing further! Keep it up girl!
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What a great post. Very motivating and moving. Keep up the good work.
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Strong work!! Congratulations
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congrats on your awesome run, kelsey!! it’s such a feeling of accomplishment, isn’t it?!
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[...] Anyway, I continued to work, building my way up eventually to one, gloriously difficult 5 mile run. [...]