hypothesis

Let me tell you how much fun it can be to go for a walk with a few thousand other women.

Seriously, I had no idea that we would have such a good time. One of the women that was with us said as much to me when we were nearing the finish line. "Who would have thought that just the walking would be so much fun?" But she was right.

For the walkers it wasn't about competition. It was about showing up and showing support. It was about honoring the women we have lost, and holding up the women who are currently fighting for their lives. It was about unity, and not judging one another. It was like a little slice of utopia.

Except for the part when Maria said "Did you ever read the story 'The Long Walk' by Stephen King?"

Well, I laughed pretty hard, but then spent the next mile imagining how we would die.

I have entertained the idea of participating in more walks. I can't run. Not only do I not enjoying running at all, but I inherited a genetically worthless body with bad joints. My knees could never stand up to the impact. I was honestly surprised that I made it through the walk. If it weren't for the bicycle I never would have made it, honestly. Riding all summer helped me build some of the muscle I need to protect my knees. I don't think anything could protect them from running though. But the walking... it was fun, and it was energizing, and it made me feel like a part of something that might actually mean something. That's kind of a big deal to me.

I also developed a theory during that walk. I think it must be men who litter. We were in a sea of women, some of whom started the walk with biscuits and coffee in their hands, many of whom had children in strollers and old enough to be walking themselves, some of whom were pushing friends or family in wheelchairs, and there was no trash on the ground. Even in the area where the awards ceremony was, where everyone was congregating. There was a definite lack of litter.

I pay attention to things like this. I always feel terrible for the people who have to clean up after a public event, because the people who attend are so disrespectful and just nasty and leave their garbage everywhere for someone else to clean up. So believe me when I say i would admit it if there was a bunch of trash. I have a bit of a vendetta against people who expect other people to clean up after them. (Don't even ask me about what I think of where you leave your shopping cart.)

It's possible (likely even) that it is just that the sort of women who participate in charitable 5K events are just not the type who litter. But for now I am still in an estrogen induced state of bliss and I would like to think that it is the stinky boys who make a mess. So let me have my fantasy.

Hope your weekend was as productive and fulfilling as mine was!