Can You Kick It?

I went for a run the other day on the same trails of the metro park I ran through in high school. Listening to my workout mix, a random song, Can I Kick It? by A Tribe Called Quest, came on my iPod as I was struggling to run up a steeper hill than the last. The beat of the music became steady as I approached the flat and fell back into control. The 2.6 mile red trail, was known to be long and difficult back when we conditioned in high school sports because after running up one hill, you would effortlessly run all the way down just to find an even steeper hill waiting ahead. Clearly, I was motivated for a good workout that day and this red trail in particular had the most beautiful views. I loved looking around only to see nature staring back at me, and the sun reflecting off the water in the valley.

In this metro park there are different trails to choose from. Anyone can choose which trail to take, from green, (the flat, shady horseshoe trail) to orange (trail through a burnt tall grassy field) to red, (hills in the midst of woods). The red trail reminds me of living a more full-filled life compared to choosing the green trial. It’s not about physically being in shape (because I most certainly started out on the green trail at one point), but it is about how hard you are willing to work to get to a more difficult level.

I have come so that they may have life and have it to the full. [John 10:10] As I was listening to Can I Kick It? on my iPod, I wanted to tell God right there, Yes I Can! Especially if it means living life to the fullest, trying to be the best version of me God created me to be.

Living life is like running on a trail, listening to your iPod while looking around you. Running up a hill is much more demanding that running down one. On the other hand, the top of the hill always leads to a view and the higher the peak, the more spectacular of the view. I have noticed how God always creates a challenge before succeeding in life. He challenges our patience, perseverance, self-control and most of all, the abundance of faith we have in Him. These thoughts rushing through my head overlooking the valley and glorious hills throughout my run led God to answering a question. How do I become the best version of myself, the person God created me to be?

He simply said, "run up more hills instead of being content running the steady flats".

I think God wanted me to understand what aspects of my life slow down the growth in my relationship with Christ. I realize coasting through life is like running down a hill, whereas running up a hill is challenging yet more gratifying because it only leads to a more spectacular view that keeps us flourishing until we reach the peak.

Next time you go for a run, bike ride or hike in the woods—remember To Kick It.