Sunday, September 23, 2007

Fall Down, Go BOOM

I didn't want to ruin your weekend, so I waited to post this. (I hope I don't ruin your breakfast either.)

So last Wednesday, after my 13.1 mile victory in Philadelphia, I headed out for a little 3-mile run. I thought I'd try something new, having just read this article in Runner's World about dissociation and association. I thought I'd try to associate—tune in to my body, and try to reach a meditative state while running by practicing meditative techniques. Something like that. So I ran without music or watch.

So there I was, running along, no idea how slow or fast (I'm sure I was flying), trying hard not to think of anything (try that sometime, it's basically impossible, btw), and all of a sudden, at mile 2, I found myself face down, eating dirt.

(Exhibit A)

It was mid-day and the path was packed with runners and bikers. I sat there somewhat sheepishly, already planning my response to the inevitable good Samaritans who would soon be smothering me with attention: "No, no I'm fine, thanks."

No one stopped. I fell, and apparently skidded, on the pebbly verge of the path, but I think if I'd fallen smack in the middle, people would have stepped right over me. That's how much concern I generated. WTF?

I got up and ran the rest of the way back to work, blood now streaming down my leg, cause that's the way I roll, people. Back at work I entertained everyone by showing them my bloodied leg and watching their horrified expressions. So at least that part was good. Because my leg was so bloodied, I couldn't change back into my work clothes. So I interviewed a prospective intern in a nice business-y top and jacket, and my running shorts.

He didn't say a word.

(Exhibit B)

19 comments:

Laurie said...

Oh my. Apparently you shouldn't daydream and run at the same time, my dear.

He should get the job just for not mentioning your odd attire.

LBTEPA said...

OMG YOU POOR LAMBIE!!!!

LBTEPA said...

BTW thanks for not spoiling my weekend - but I opened google reader when I was eating my lunch :O

21stCenturyMom said...

Ow, Ow, Ow, Ow, Ow!

I blame the Republican administration for the hardass meaness that you got treated to! Too much Karl Rove!! How could people just run past you??!!! I am apalled.

So I guess the lesson is that you have to clear your mind except for the part that watches where you are running. Sounds to me like you did a little too good a job at getting clear. Hope you heal soon.

Plods said...

I can't believe people didn't stop!
At least you could be badass for a day at work... must've been nice!

Cheers

Susan said...

A shockingly similar thing happened to my in 2004... and only 2 guys running together (and I mean "together," as in they were only interested in each other) asked if I was OK. I said yes, like an idiot. But I was woozy. And my OWN DOCTOR was the next to run by. Miracle, I say!

peter said...

Still, you did your eight (or was it ten) on Saturday very well, injury and all. Get well soon.

Mark said...

OUCH!!!!!!!

a.maria said...

HOLY CRAP!!! that's freaking awesome. i'd love to have been the one being interviewed. how did he not say anything?!

i love it. "hi, nice to meet you".. you look all professional, and then you stand up and WHOAA! whats with the running shorts!

classic.

and you've got some seriously good road rash going on there. put some neosporin on that, and heal up!

Thomas said...

Nicely shaped legs. Not bad at all!

Oh, hang on. I just spotted the blood. Poor you.

Iron Jayhawk said...

Dude. I'm jealous. You're so hardcore. :D Seriously.

Hope it heals quickly!

Vickie said...

Ouch! That's gonna hurt! Just be glad you didn't sprain an ankle or something too. Or need to be taken away on a stretcher. Or hit your head. Or...you get the message. I have fallen so many times and know how you must have felt. First, you feel like there's no way you can stop yourself. Then you try to avoid falling too hard. And finally, you feel stupid, then angry when no one seems to care. Use some antibiotic cream to help it heal faster! And try to keep it exposed as much as you can! Youch!

Anonymous said...

hey jeanne. A here. thought i'd let you know that i find your comeback inspiring! i can't run for a long while. disc problem in my back with a pinched nerve. debilitating. so, i'm in for the walking...and swimming...and biking. ick! take it in stride, right?

Violet said...

I think you are possibly bad for your health...be carful! Some day I might like to meet you and if you're all beat up I'll have to pretend not know you...geesh...think of me won't you?

Rich said...

I wouldn't hire clueless. Social skills of a rock.

Might I suggest a little external association next time out? I read the same article on my flight home earlier today :-)

Shop New Balance said...

He didn't say anything!? Not even "Wow, did that hurt?" Geez! That is crazy, what is going on with people today...I'm glad you weren't injured too bad, how is it now?

Anne said...

I bet that job prospect is now thinking that you're either the coolest boss ever, or the craziest. And it saddens me so to hear that no one stopped, let alone rushed to your aid. Oh, the humanity!

Anonymous said...

bacon socks!

Dori said...

I would have stopped for you. A pox on all those self-absorbed runners!