I am alive...

I am still breathing. It is abundantly clear to me how alive I truly am.
You see, I have begun the awesome challenge of learning to enjoy running and weight training. Every muscle in my body is SCREAMING at the moment...protesting even the slightest hint of being used. On more than one occasion today, I have sharply gasped at the pain.

Pain is becoming a friend, however. I realize now that without some pain I won't see progress, so here's to you, my sore aching muscles. I haven't used you in a very long time, so naturally you are going to hurt. A LOT. But it feels good in a weird sort of way, knowing you will still work when I need you.

I have so much to be thankful for, but for today I am thankful to be alive.