Running and Life

Many people are following the news stories about the murder of Nancy Cooper (www.newsobserver.com). My deepest sympathies are with all of her family and friends.

I am also following the case because it appears to involve domestic violence. I was first following the case because a runner was murdered and I was concerned about the safety of running alone - something I do quite frequently.

Last week I went running in Duke Forest and a male runner came up unexpectedly behind me. I know I had the look of sheer terror on my face when I turned to look at him. Within the seconds it took him to pass me, he saw my fear and said, I'm sorry. Then this week I was running alone and passed a male who was walking and I called out, "to your left" - as running ettiquette dictates. When he turned to look at me, he had a look of total calm. That's one of the differences in the world for men and women.

Everything is speculation at this point about who murdered Nancy Cooper. The email posts and the affadavits from friends and family are a big gossip fest. We Durhamites will never be the same since the Duke LaCrosse case, so most of us are waiting to see what comes next before jumping to any conclusions. The police did say that it was not random so that gave me some relief in terms of going out and running alone. It's not something I have any desire to give up. It clears my head and brings me a sense of calm and peace.

This week, I'll be doing my running on the beach at Cherry Grove, SC. I am heading to South Carolina for my family reunion - 8 of 9 siblings, 2 sisters-in-law, 13 of 16 nieces and nephews, 2 step-nephews, 5 grandnieces, 2 parents, and 1 grandnephew. And I'm sure I'm leaving out some boyfriends and girlfriends of family members who are also coming. Wow!

Have a fabulous week! Back on line Saturday or Sunday in August.

Be blessed.