A ray of light in a dark sky: Why I still have faith in humanity

There are few words that can describe how I feel about the tragic events in Boston last week. As a runner but more importantly as a human, I just found the emotion overwhelming. I hope that the police will quickly end the situation that continues to unfold even as I write. So much has been said that I don’t want to add to the noise too much. I’m glad of what #RunChat has been doing via their page and a group of us will be wearing race shirts and going for a group run on Monday to show solidarity. We must not let fear conquer love.

On that note, this was also a week where I saw many of the most moving and inspiring displays of spontaneous humanity – from first responders and bystanders rushing in to help to so many opening up their homes to stranded runners. But, one other thing happened this week that moved me tremendously – New Zealand passed their Marriage Equality law, and what happened next is truly beautiful.

Watch this amazing video – on hearing the vote response the gallery spontaneously bursts into the most beautiful rendition of a traditional Mauri Maori love song.

It is these things that we should cling to in times like these. It is all too easy to despair and to believe that things are getting worse and that we’re all doomed, but it’s just not true. There is still great beauty in the world and people are still capable of incredibly acts of self-sacrifice, of love and of understanding.

I hope that our reaction to the tragedies will not be based on fear, but on the determination to make this world better for all of its inhabitants.

PaleoBarefoots Snow running video in Mammoth Lakes

Recently I took a trip (actually two trips) to beautiful Mammoth Lakes in California and did some running in the snow. I had heard from a friend in Iceland that the PaleoBarefoots I’ve mentioned before are great for running in snow/icy conditions. I thought I’d try it out, and I’ve made a video about it here. It might seem strange that the first half of the video concentrates on planning and safety – but it’s too important to ignore. Running in any extreme conditions can be dangerous or life threatening – not only for you, but for those who might have to rescue you. Tragically, not enough people pay attention to these aspects and they get themselves (and others) into trouble. What starts as a fun adventure can quickly end in tragedy. Always be prepared and stay safe out there!

 

I hope you enjoy the video