Run846

​Many of you who follow 605 Running Company on our various social media platforms may have seen an event titled “Run846” circulating, or maybe you have seen friends share it. I’d like to take a minute and elaborate on the reason for this event, and the imperative message behind it.
 
It is no secret that our country is in a state of turmoil and unrest. However, I cannot help but think, and hope, that it is an opportunity for profound change. When the news of George Floyd’s death at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer first broke, I found myself feeling disheartened, sad, angry, and helpless. It was an all-too familiar headline that I felt like had pervaded news stories for years; and with the added layer of technology and ability to live-stream such events, it was hard not to feel like we had become desensitized to such brutality.
 
After wallowing in a state of hopelessness, I began to reframe my thinking, and my runner’s brain piped up. At this time in my fitness, the eight minutes and forty-six seconds that it took for George Floyd’s life to be taken from him is the time it takes me to comfortably run a mile. When I push harder, beyond the point of discomfort, I can go farther. As runners, no matter our fitness levels, paces, or abilities, our bodies are capable of amazing things. American entrepreneur Charlene Johnson said, “Get comfortable with being uncomfortable, that’s how you break the plateau and reach the next level”. This is so true, not only as an athlete, or a businessperson, or professional, but as human being.
 
Thus, Run846 was born. Imagine what you are capable of when you push just a little harder; when you shut out the voices telling you that you can’t, or that there’s no point, or that no one cares. Imagine giving just a little more of yourself and breaking past the plateau that you’ve been stuck at for weeks, months, or even years. I will be the first to admit that I hate being uncomfortable, and I would imagine most folks would agree it’s a state of being that they prefer not to endure. But without discomfort, the chances of profound change are slim. We are at a pivotal moment in our history to be voices of change, advocates and allies for those whose voices have been silenced by the majority for far too long. So, I invite you to join us for 8 minutes and 46 seconds this Friday, July 3rd as we prepare to celebrate our independence as a nation and see how far your legs can carry you when you push past that discomfort. Join our event page on Facebook and share it, then share your accomplishments on social media using #Run846 and our event frame.
 
We are capable of so much as human beings, and with a little love and fortitude, we can truly do great things. I hope you will participate with us and spread the word of love, equality, and justice this coming weekend. Let’s do better.

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Maren Ernst has been a contributor to 605 Running Company for four years. When not working at the shop Maren enjoys riding her bike or motorcycle, painting, reading and spending quality time with her friends and family.

Instagram: @maren_runs_the_605