Photo of Dean by Kevin Hatfield.

Hello, my name is Dean and I’m a runner.

“Hi Dean.”

I’ve been running for almost four years now. I started on a whim when I decided that running a marathon was a worthy “life-checklist” item. I began pursuing that goal. I’ve been running ever since.

“Welcome to the group, Dean.”

Somewhere along the line, I got this (pardon the expression) crazy idea in my head that I needed to qualify for the Boston Marathon. I’ve finally done it. Now I’m obsessing about running faster.

“Hmmmm, interesting…”

The funny thing is, I’m really not sure why I run at all. Perhaps that’s why I write. I’m trying to come to grips with things. You see, though sometimes I simply hate running, l always really, really love it. So, I’m confused.

“…And it’s become important to you? You’ve grown to need it?”

Whoa, I’m not addicted or anything.

I can stop any time.

- Dean