This conversation was recorded more than a year ago, before my relocation from Singapore to Manchester, UK. As I plunged into a new life, I struggled to find my way and felt unable to publish any podcasts. Now winter is over, and as we hurtle through spring, my energy has returned, and I’m delighted to share this episode.
My guests are three members of Singapore’s American Women’s Association Running Group.
Bernie Tretta from Euston, Texas; epidemiologist and data queen
Qian Marquard from Beijing; educator and super A (super cool, trendy, and sassy!)
Suzanne Hizzey Murphy from Seattle, Washington; teacher, organisational wizard and US Embassy spouse
Richly diverse in age, nationality and skills, all three beautifully illustrate the firm friendships forged in this vibrant community.
We talk about how being part of an ever-changing group means creating a culture that continues; Bernie uses the lovely analogy of a ship being rebuilt one board at a time allowing new people the opportunity to renew the group’s strength, energy and innovation.
As we all look back and search for blessings during the Covid lockdown, Suzanne talks about how devising daily challenges for the running group motivated her to keep going and had the bonus of deepening the group’s connections and friendships. Superficially, the challenges may seem inconsequential, but the underlying impact is profound.
Running strips away makeup and status, and Qian talks about how running may make you suffer. Still, a running group will gift motivation, engagement, friendship and fun – plus massages on a running vacation if you are lucky! We all agree that it’s essential not to take the group for granted and how being part of the group has been hugely valuable in gifting friendship and support and keeping loneliness at bay.
The community transcends running the joint energy created by the members means a wide variety of activity options, both running and socially orientated. Those who organise things for others receive unexpected benefits, and all, regardless of their running prowess, are eagerly welcomed, and no one is ever left behind.
Key takeaways:
· When people leave the group, culture is rebuilt by new people, one board at a time.
· Running will humble you; you can’t hide behind makeup or status.
· Although running may make you suffer, a running group will gift motivation, engagement, friendship and fun – plus massages if you are lucky!
· A running group is a great antidote to loneliness and should not be taken for granted.
· Magic happens when people use their skills to organise events so others can take part.
· Showing up is a vast joy regardless of your running ability.
References:
American Women's Association: https://www.awasingapore.org
