Two Goddesses


I’m thoroughly enjoying Christopher McDougall’s book Born to Run, about the hidden ultrarunners of Mexico’s Copper Canyon: the Tarahumara people.

I had the privilege of hearing stories from some Tarahumara runners last week who had participated in the annual Polar Bear Marathon in Churchhill, MB, and wanted to learn more about them.

McDougall’s book reads like a page-turning mystery novel. Unexpectedly, aside from secrets to running well, he also bumps into what might be secrets to living well.

Take this quote from coach Joe Vigil:

“There are two goddesses in your heart. The Goddess of Wisdom and the Goddess of Wealth. Everyone thinks they need to get wealth first, and wisdom will come. But they have it backwards. You have to give your heart to the Goddess of Wisdom, give her all your love and attention, and the Goddess of Wealth will become jealous, and follow you.”

As it turns out, maybe the things that make you a good person – things like wisdom, character, and love – might make you a good runner as well.