The Everchanging Dynamics

It's been awhile since we've all got together. It's not unusual we go our own separate ways in the summer, but, this past 12 months has been different. You see, the Blue Dawgs are stepping out on the town tonight. Or, in reality, we are running a few miles and heading for the Blue Dawg Tavern for a cold one or two.

I often marvel at dynamics of a situation. How do people converge, that, for a brief moment, they all think alike? What do I mean? A few years ago, there were quite a few fellow runners that would meet up on Wednesday nights in the summer and run together. Then, a few of us (what became known as the Blue Dawg group) kept on running through the winter. There were very few times any of us would miss that night. And, the spring/summer would come and, the scene shifted with more people added, but all thinking alike. And, then winter. Summer. And on. And, you swore, that it would go on forever. Or, at least, it felt that way.

But, things in life change. Jobs change, careers shift, people start families, injuries occur, what was once a high priority doesn't feel that way anymore. The dynamics of the situation have changed. And, you try to put your finger on where. Where did it change? And why?

Can that dynamic ever be recaptured? Is it like putting the genie back in the bottle? What you once took for granted, you now reflect on how special that moment in time was. When a group of people all thought alike and wanted and could run together.

There are times we get together individually. But, the summer runs on Wednesday nights have all but disappeared. Or, maybe, it was me not paying attention and they are still happening. Dunno. But, I miss the comraderie.

I look forward to this evening to find out how everyone is and, as Eric T wrote to us, to tell of our summer war stories. And, maybe it will not be just to tell stories but to plan new ones for ourselves. You can bet I won't be taking it for granted.

(Notes: For the record, I did go through Falmouth withdrawal. I thought about it all morning yesterday and wondered what the weather conditions were for the race. Hopefully, things will be different next year.
RIP--BR.