A Weekend of 'Too Much Peopling': Running, Beer, and Volunteering

This past weekend was a whirlwind of activity, marked by a unique blend of community, running, and, yes, a bit of beer. As someone who cherishes both the quiet of solitude and the joy of social interaction, I often find myself walking a fine line between engaging with others and preserving my own space. This weekend was a testament to that delicate balance.

Saturday: Brewery to Brewery Run

The day kicked off with Happy's Running Club's Fall Brewery to Brewery run, an event that epitomizes two things people are incredibly passionate about: running and beer. The atmosphere was electric, filled with a sense of camaraderie and an unmistakable buzz of enthusiasm. The people I met were avid beer enthusiasts, their zeal for the frothy beverage somewhat eclipsing my own. Despite feeling a tad out of my league in the beer department, the warmth and friendliness of the group were infectious.

I also learned more about their Tuesday weekly runs, which seem like a great opportunity for socialization. Though I might have to skip the post-run beer ritual, the idea of being part of this lively community is tempting.

Sunday: St. Louis Half Marathon

Sunday brought a different kind of engagement. As a part of the St. Louis Track Club board, I was up and about by 5 am, setting up aid stations for the St. Louis Half Marathon. The day was a flurry of activity – from arranging finish line snacks and medals to ensuring additional water reached where it was needed most. The interactions, though more task-oriented, were no less meaningful, bringing together a team dedicated to making the event a success.

Amidst the bustle, what I enjoyed the most was hearing the runners' stories post-race. Each runner had a unique tale – the challenges they faced, what went right, what didn’t, and how their training journeys shaped their experience. These narratives added a rich, human element to the physical exhaustion of the day.

Reflections on Overcommitment

Despite the fun and fulfillment these events brought, they also highlighted my tendency to overcommit. While I thrive on being useful and engaging with the community, I also deeply value my solitude. It’s a balancing act – one that I don’t always get right. This weekend was a reminder that while it's great to be involved, it's also okay to step back and recharge.

As I look ahead, I’m reminded of the importance of listening to my own needs and respecting my limits. Maybe it’s about finding the right mix of running, volunteering, and quiet evenings at home. Whatever the case, it’s a journey I’m still navigating.