people who run and smile :o)

when i go on my morning run, i cross paths with four types of people. i don't mean to categorize, but this is an exception...

first, there's the runner who looks straight ahead. focused. intent. eye on the prize. you don't have a chance if you get in their way...they will continue on. it makes me wonder what they're running to. a gourmet breakfast, perhaps?

next is the runner who looks at the ground. and probably for good reason. the holes, dips, bumps, puddles, and occasional doggy doo can set you off track if you're not alert. however, when i cross paths with these people, i'm in survival mode. i have to dodge them to prevent a collision.

oh, and the people who make brief eye contact - but serious eye contact. these people scare me. they make me feel like i'm in some kind of race, like they are my competitors. i don't know, maybe they look serious because they have a lot going on in their mind. or maybe they're just serious people.

and then there are the people who run and smile. they could be looking straight ahead, at the ground, or directly at you...with a smile. these people are my favorite. i always wonder what brings a smile to their face. are they in such good shape that nothing phases them? are they humming a playful tune in their head? are they experiencing the runner's high, manifested as a smile? whatever the reason, i can't help but smile back.

people who run and smile give me a jolt of energy. a push, if you will. at that very moment, there is an exchange of happiness. of fellowship. smiling is already special, but when i receive a smile from someone who is breathing hard, sweating, pushing their body to the max -- well, it just goes to show that there are no excuses for not spreading a little joy. something as simple as a smile can go a long way. even on the trail.