I have resumed my running schedule, albeit a bit more conservatively given the trauma my foot endured as a result of my exuberant first attempt. After sitting out for three weeks, I slipped on my shoes and stepped outside, legs limber and eager. Like a wine connoisseur tasting his first bottle of wine in years, my body responded and I filled with energy and fire.

The initial challenge of running for a period of time has been met; my circuit is a bit over four miles, which I can complete without issue. Now, it becomes a matter of being able to do it four times a week for many weeks in a row. It must become both a habit (which will be harder to do I fear given the false start) and a habit that my aging body is able to bear. As the podiatrist said, I’m not 18 any more.

Stepping inside after a muggy evening run, dripping with sweat, I was a bemused to find myself stuck with a wide and silly grin for nearly a quarter of an hour. It’s good to be back, and now it is time to maintain fitness and strength, and build from there.