Kent and I ran the water tank hills this morning. We thought Larry and Kevin were coming out, but I guess not. It was only 19°, but that was 3° warmer than yesterday. Kent and I enjoyed our run up the hills, or at least having the run done. We didn't set any speed records, but got in a good workout. I've learned a little about work as my life has gone on. Like most kids, and many adults, I used to hate and dread hard work. I still do at times. Why would anyone ever want to do anything that took hard physical or mental effort if it could be avoided? Wouldn't the ideal be to spend every moment doing things that look, sound, feel, smell or taste good? My running buddies and I often say we like to run because it feels so good when we stop. While it does feel very good to stop, it isn't the being stopped that feels so good as the satisfaction of having attempted something difficult and accomplished it. And the bonus is that afterwards we enjoy the pleasurable times even more...things seem to look, sound, feel, smell and taste better. I believe this principle applies not only to running, but to any type of meaningful work. Since I've discovered the blessing of work, it's made work easier. Sometimes the hardest part of work is just getting started, and then having a bad attitude about it makes the work even harder. Viewing work as a blessing makes it easier to jump in and get started. Also, I've found that, beyond it feeling good to stop working, with a good attitude I can actually enjoy the work while I'm doing it. I still enjoy putting up my feet, eating pie, and watching a good movie or sporting event, but I've also learned to enjoy doing the laundry, taking out the trash, and making my legs burn pushing up a long hard hill. I'm grateful to have the ability to do all these things and so many more. Life is a wonderful adventure.
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