Running with a heart

Running gives you a strong and healthy heart. That is one proven benefit of this sport that we have come to love.

And runners' hearts are not only strong and healthy. They are also big.

Eighty runners from Davao proved this today. Led by members of Team Davao Runners, they tackled 12 kilometers in a run meant to express sympathy and gather support for those who suffered in the wrath of Typhoon Sendong in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan.

It was what we call a raw run. No runner support, no water stations, no food. Just the runners, the road, and the common desire to help even in the simplest of ways.

Runners who joined brought whatever they can share for the typhoon victims - canned goods, clothes, shoes, slippers, bottled water, hard-earned cash. What was gathered wasn't really much but it was enough to fill up the back of a pick-up truck, perhaps enough even to fill the hearts of those who will receive the items with a little gladness this Christmas.

There were no medals or certificates at the end of the 12k run. But there undoubtedly was gladness in the heart of every runner who did the run and gave for a fellowman in need. That was reward enough for running with a heart, and a good reward it is.

"A good exercise for the heart is to bend down and help another up." 

(from The Best Giving Quotes on www.boardofwisdom.com)

                                                      (Thanks to Rolly Itallo and Team Davao Runners for the photos.)