Running was never meant to be easy, so many runners choose a phrase to help motivate them. Some of my favorites include: “No matter how slow you go, you are still lapping everybody on the couch”; “I don’t run to add days to my life, I run to add life to my days”; “The miracle isn’t that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start”; “My sport is your sport’s punishment”; “This isn’t sweat, it’s liquid awesome”; and “Do it for the post-run snack”.
It was during a recent run along the Stanley Park Seawall Path in Vancouver, Canada, that I discovered a different motivational technique. Rather than repeating a single phrase to keep you going, how about excitedly striding from one motivational expression to another? You see as this trail winds itself around magnificent Stanley Park, it is replete with benches adorned with a seemingly endless number of deeply personal plaques that broadcast both remembrances and some pretty keen life advice.
I stopped more than 150 times during my run and I’d estimate that I photographed only 50% of the benches that are available to enjoy. 🤯
My favorite plaques include: “What a beautiful difference one single life made”; “To the world you were just one, to me you were the world” 🥹; “She lived for those she loved, and those she loved remember”; “How small a part of time we share”; “People and places have touched me so, left a mark on my mind, heart & soul. Thank you Lord, it’s been a great ride”; “Loving Masterchef who taught how to savor the flavors of life”; and “Just a Godly man who so loved his four wonderful daughters”.
This outstanding trail is approximately 6 miles long, flat, and entirely paved. It features numerous dramatic curves that create excitement to discover what might be revealed just around each corner. Those with mobility issues will find it extremely accommodating and a separate lane for cyclists creates a safe path for all outdoor enthusiasts. It is well traveled during the day, and although the buddy system is always recommended, it isn’t necessary in this instance.
And that’s…Henry’s Take.
