Freeman’s trail, it is a special place hidden from the masses but open to all who ask. Created for days when you need to clear the fog and spend some time in worship. It could be the woods, the quite, or the man who made it but one thing is for sure…Freeman’s trail will also bring you back to what is important.
Jim Freeman, my high school cross country coach and life long friend built a running trail on his property specifically made for days like these. (Mr. Freeman was a world class marathoner in the late 60’s early 70’s – 8th at Boston – 2 invitations to Olympic trials) I have run this trail since 1992 throughout every season. I have even just taken my wife for a walk around the picturesque surrounding. Saturday was no different.
Running along side my friend Tim we spent over an hour talking faith, life and biology. As we ran the mud covered my shoes (Brooks Adrenaline GTS) and backside. The quick turns inside the woods laced with enormous cedars revved the heart beat into the upper 170’s. The upper hill, which Tim insisted we run 4 times, made the calves scream with pain as only a “good” hill can conjure. In the flats along the mowed path we would continue talking as our bodies regained the courage to run another lap. Then as we passed by the food bank garden and pond the talking stopped, the pace increased and we pushed the hills. It was a good Saturday run.
When overwhelmed by the crashing wave ready to pound every once of good intention my faith solidly holds me in place. This anchor never moves however at times my vision is blurred and I struggle to see the obvious. Although the deepest part of my core knows it is holding firm I need a good run to sort it out. Saturday was one of those runs.
Thanks Mr. Freeman for the beautiful trail.
Tales From A Poopsmith 