If you need inspiration to run or work out, go to a race like the Chicago Marathon as a spectator. After my first marathon I doubted I would ever run another, but watching and cheering for these runners made me want to sign up for the race next year.
I watched the race from Mile 8 in Lakeview. I hoped to see my running friend, but my eyes could not move fast enough to keep up with the crowds of runners whizzing past me. Instead, I cheered for random people who had their names on their shirts. I high-fived about 15 sweaty, pumped-up strangers. I yelled “Lookin’ good!” and “Keep going!” and whatever generic encouragement popped into my head. Being a spectator is harder than I thought it would be.
I saw Batman, Wonder Woman, Superman, a pizza, a hot dog, and a man who had painted himself green and wore a green tutu. I saw a man who was partially blind being led by another runner. And I saw countless energetic, dedicated and all-around badass runners. Congratulations to all finishers!
Marette Flora is the founder of Floradise blog and personalized gift shop. Marette is a passionate storyteller and creator. She attended the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication.
She is passionate about creating helpful and meaningful things.