I saw my running pace has improved significantly in the last couple of days, and I’m thrilled about the results. The temperature has dropped considerably compared to a few weeks ago. The cooler weather has made a noticeable difference to my running as I found it easier to push myself further. I’ve recently achieved my target pace of below 10 minutes per kilometer, and today, I hit a new personal best for my 5k time.
It’s hard to believe how far I’ve come since my brain stroke in 2015. Back then, my brain struggled to send signals to my legs, even though I remembered exactly how to walk or run. It felt like typing on a disconnected keyboard—no matter what I did, there was no response. The doctors explained that my neural pathway for walking or running had completely vanished. I had to relearn everything from scratch, starting with weeks of rehabilitation just to take a few steps.
Those early months were challenging. Learning to walk without a walker or any support took a tremendous amount of effort and time. I faced another hurdle at work, where my brain couldn’t filter out unnecessary information, making it difficult to focus. Then, I truly understood the intricate abilities we take for granted.
Determined not to give up, my wife and I began walking every day, although I had to rest frequently just to cover 1.5 miles. Then, one day, I told her I wanted to learn how to run. She was understandably concerned at first because the running could strain my kidneys. I was serious about it. I started with my old running shoes, but it wasn’t really running—more like fast walking, with a lot of stumbling. After a month of trying, my wife suggested I get a good pair of running shoes. That small change made a huge difference, making each step feel lighter.
To track my progress, she set up an Excel sheet where I could log my runs, and she even got me the Zombie Run app to add some excitement to my routine. It turned my running into an adventure rather than a chore.
It took years for me to see the full extent of my progress. When we moved to Tennessee in 2018, my mother noticed the muscle definition in my calves. When I lost my mobility after my stroke, I had lost so much muscle mass in the months following my stroke that it felt like a victory to have someone point out my runner’s legs. My endurance had also increased, allowing me to tackle more tasks without feeling exhausted. I felt genuinely proud of myself for the first time in a long while.
After achieving my distance goal last year, I decided to focus more on improving my pace. It added extra challenges as I had to monitor my pace during my run. I get tired very quickly because of my kidney, so I have to know when to stop pushing myself. My running suffers during summer due to its heat. Despite a few setbacks along the way, I kept moving forward. My goal is to set a new best at least once a week, and I’ve been getting multiple of my fastest records in rows. Now, I find myself wondering how many personal records I can possibly create.
The journey hasn’t been easy, but every small victory feels monumental. And with each run, I’m reminded of how far I’ve come—from relearning to walk to becoming someone who now sets running records. It’s a journey that’s as much about perseverance as it is about running.
The more we worked on this project, the more stripping the paint off our deck turned out to be a much bigger job than we had anticipated. When we began removing the paint, I discovered several layers of old paint underneath. It made me wonder if the wood beneath was still in good condition or had started to rot. My wife meticulously inspected each deckboard to check for soft spots. We found one completely rotten board hidden beneath all the paint.
She reminded me that our deck is over twenty years old, so it’s not surprising that it’s showing its age. She’s already considering replacing it with PVC boards, but that’s a project for the future. We’re trying to maintain it as best we can. The deck stairs also need repairs, so we’re budgeting to replace the whole thing in the next five years.
Because of her busy schedule, I’ve taken on most of the paint-stripping work, tackling it bit by bit. This is our first time attempting a project like this, so we’ve been turning to YouTube and blogs for guidance. There is so much content in removing paint from the decking, and it’s pleasant to discover how much you can learn from the internet. My wife even bought some materials to patch up the deck, determined to prevent rot from setting in. We’re learning as we go, making plenty of mistakes, but we’re figuring things out one step at a time. My wife, in particular, seems to enjoy the challenge of finding solutions to these problems. She believes you can learn something valuable from every experience. She also sees no learning as a waste.
I’m just glad she’s happy. I’ve been listening to audiobooks while I work, trying to fit this project in between my other tasks. The weather finally seems to be cooperating, so I’m tackling a few boards each day, hoping the paint stripper works as well as we need it to. It’s a slow process, but I’m optimistic we’ll get it done and have our deck looking good again soon.
Using an interval pace app has been a game-changer for my running routine. It provides a detailed view of my performance, allowing me to see exactly how I run at any moment. But it’s also revealed a lot about the inconsistency of my pace, which, to be honest, often feels like a roller coaster ride.
For example, during my first 5 km, I might be a few seconds slower than my target, but then I speed up in the next 5 km. I run two 5 km loops to complete 10 km, and I expect to maintain a steady pace throughout. However, maintaining a consistent speed for each interval is a real challenge, given the hilly terrain around my neighborhood. Despite these fluctuations, I recently achieved my fastest time since I started using this app last year, which was a satisfying milestone.
Several factors contribute to these ups and downs in my running performance:
1. Weather Conditions:
The weather significantly impacts my runs. I find it much harder to keep up my pace on hot days. Extreme cold can also slow me down, and strong winds can feel like running against a wall. However, I’ve noticed a considerable improvement in my running pace over the last few weeks as the weather has cooled. The heat affects me the most, draining my energy quickly. Running in more excellent conditions makes me feel lighter and more energetic, allowing me to push my limits further.
2. Emotional State:
My emotional state plays a massive role in my running performance. For instance, I was determined to improve my pace today, so I pushed myself harder during the second 5 km. I’ve been focusing a lot on improving my pace this year, and it’s paying off compared to last year. But this heightened focus can sometimes lead to overexertion, and balancing my drive to improve with my body’s signals is crucial. On days when I feel less motivated or distracted, I notice my pace tends to drop. It’s a reminder that running is as much a mental challenge as a physical one.
3. Physical Condition:
My body’s condition is perhaps the most significant factor influencing my runs. With a compromised kidney, I often feel drained, making it challenging to maintain a consistent schedule. I’ve set a rigid routine for my sleep and wake-up times to maximize my energy levels, but there are still days when fatigue takes over. Running low on energy can be tricky, but I’ve committed to my routine regardless of how I feel.
Muscle recovery is another challenge. Because I need to limit my protein intake, building and maintaining muscle is difficult, even with regular exercise. I’ve noticed that my muscles don’t recover as quickly, and I must be cautious not to overtrain. For example, I started my run today with a sore left calf muscle. I managed to complete my 10 km, but I could feel the strain more acutely afterward, especially when climbing stairs. This experience reminded me that while it’s essential to push myself, I also need to be mindful of my body’s signals to avoid injury.
Finding Balance and Perspective:
Setting a pace goal this year has been a significant step forward. Focusing on distance is easier because I can adjust my effort according to how I feel on any given day. But with pace, there’s an added layer of challenge that requires more consistency and effort. There are good days when I feel strong and manage to meet my goals, but there are also days when my body just doesn’t cooperate. It can be frustrating when I don’t see the progress I aim for, especially when my physical condition affects my performance.
My wife often reminds me to stay caught up in the daily results and to focus instead on the long-term trends. While the accessible version of my app doesn’t track data over multiple years, I can still see that my pace has been gradually improving since I started using it. It’s a reminder that progress isn’t always visible in the short term but can be seen over the weeks and months. I’m learning to be patient with myself and to celebrate the small victories along the way, knowing that each step, no matter how small, brings me closer to my goal.
~ From Reading The Adventure of Huckleberry Finn By Mark Twain
Introduction
I was surprised to see ” The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” on the banned list. I thought this book was for children, which was incorrect. Although I had considered reading it in the past, I had never picked it up until now. I decided to read it for this project, and I found it to be deep and complex.
I wanted to read it in the original English as much as possible, so I picked up a Kindle version of “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn: the Original 1884 Unabridged and Complete Edition.” Let me tell you that this book was challenging to read as English is the second language.
Twain was known for realism and naturalism. The entire book was written from Huck’s first point of view, and so was the level of English. The dialogue was written just about how people talked during the period. There were moments when I had to read some passages multiple times to grasp their meaning, and sometimes, I even needed help from my husband to decipher them. Twain made sure we would sense the departure from the romanticism of the earlier literary era, embracing a more realistic portrayal of life along the Mississippi.
After reading the book for the first time, Jim and Huck. I felt unsettled. I was a little upset at Tom Sawyer at the End for making the rescue mission one of his adventure games. I also noticed its well-constructed plot, and the depth of the character development impressed me. The more I read and analyzed the book, the more I realized how complex and deep this book was.
Twain’s portrayal of a deeply flawed “civilized” society filled with hypocrisy and cruelty could be considered controversial. To make it worse, the frequent use of the derogatory word did not help.
This novel is not just a story of the adventure of a boy. Instead, it reflects the social issues of its time, which Twain felt strongly against. While I was reading the book, I could imagine the historical and local color of the 19th-century southern United States. I thought it would be important to delve deeper into it to prove why it has become a cornerstone of American literature. In this post, I would like to write my thoughts on why I consider this book a legend by analyzing the character, symbolism, and what I learned from reading this book.
Plot Summary
Huckleberry Finn was not as happy because the Widow Douglas felt sorry for him for getting abandoned by his alcoholic and abusive father. The Widow was strict with Huckleberry about getting civilized. She sent him to school to get him some education. One day, his father, who had been missing for a while, suddenly appeared and demanded that he quit his education and his $6,000. Judge Thatcher kept the fund safe until Huckleberry was a bit older. One day, his father was drunk, enraged, and became violent to the point he almost killed Huck. Huck had enough of his nonsense. He decided to escape down the river on a raft after faking his own death.
Huck started living on Jackson Island, near the river, where he met Jim, who belonged to Miss Watson. Miss Watson is a sister of the Widow Douglas, so Huck knows Jim. Jim fled Miss Watson after learning her plan to sell him for $800. So, Huck and Jim decided to travel down the Mississippi River to the free state. However, they lost their way due to a thick fog. Huck was hearing a whisper from River – Huck contemplated whether he should do the right thing to turn Jim In. Huck tricks Jim into thinking that the separation is a dream, making Jim confused with reality. When Jim realizes the truth and is upset, Jim’s emotional reaction makes Huck feel bad—Huck’s apology to Jim.
Shortly after the fog incident, a steamboat hit their raft, and Huck and Jim were separated again. Huck was rescued by the Grangerfords, who had a deadly feud with the Shepherdsons. Huck witnessed the tragic outcome that resulted in deaths when the Grangerford girl eloped with the Sheperdson’s boy. Huck managed to escape the fight and found Jim, who was hiding nearby. They started their trip again.
Huck and Jim met two con artists who addressed themselves as “the duke and the king.” Although Huck knew there were frauds, he kept silent and offered to travel with Huck and Jim. The Duke and King ran a series of scams on the shoes. They found out about the death of a man named Peter Wilks. Wilk’s family sent a letter to Wilk’s brother in England to claim his estates. The con men decided to steal the inheritance by impersonating Wilk’s brothers. Huck felt wrong about Wilk’s family, so Huck exposed their lie. Eventually, their family and townspeople found out their lie. The Duke and King were horrible con artists. Huck worried they would subsequently betray them one day. So, Huck took Jim and decided to leave without those con artists. Unfortunately, the escape was unsuccessful. Soon, the Duke and King not only catch up with Jim and Huck.
The Duke and King did not get Wilk’s inheritance, so they were upset and broke. Like Huck worried, they sold the raft and Jim to a local farmer. Huck was starting to question his moral conscience, so he decided to free Jim from being enslaved, even if that meant he would go to hell. Later, Huck finds out that Silas Phelps is the person who bought Jim to get the reward. Huck also discovered that the Duke and King had to pay for their crime with death.
When Huck visits the Phelps, he meets Aunt Sally, who happens to be expecting Tom Sawyer. Since Sally mistook Huck for her nephew, Huck impersonated Tom. He had spent time with Tom in the past, so it was easy to imitate him. Tom eventually arrives at his aunt’s family. Tom thought it would be exciting, so they let Huck impersonate Tom.
Meanwhile, they are plotting to free Jim from the Phelps. Tom insists on a dramatic rescue mission, just like the stories he read in the past. Then, Tom finally agrees with the more straightforward way to escape: digging a hole. They manage to free Jim with their plan, but Tom is wounded. Huck calls a doctor in the town, but Jim stays with Tom as he is deadly injured from the gunshot. The doctor treats Tom but tells them to turn Jim in. Now, Jim is captured again.
After Tom recovered from the injury, he finally revealed that Miss Watson died, and she freed Jim in her will all this time. Tom knew that Jim was free already, but he had to withhold the truth from them to have some fun from the rescue. Jim also confessed to Huck that he saw his father’s corpse near the floating house before he met Huck. Huck also found out his $6,000 is still safe with the judge. Huck now worried that Aunt Sally would take him like the Widow did to civilize him. He didn’t want any more guardians, so he headed west to do whatever he wanted.
Historical Context Analysis
This book was originally published in 1884, when the style of writing shifted to Realism and Naturalism, emphasizing ordinary people’s lives, environment, and social issues rather than imaginary or dramatized versions of people. Mark Twain and Kate Chopin from “The Awakening” are known U.S. authors around this time period. Twain and Chopin are also known for regionalism when they write about the places they lived or knew. For example, Twain was raised in Hannibal, Missouri. I found books around this period enjoyable as I feel the local colors of the book: Twain for Missouri and Chopin for Louisiana.
The book was actually set in the pre-Civil War period. According to Digital History (n.d.), America had two groups of immigrants: the descendants of 17th-century Puritans and the others of the gentry from England. The social norms were different between the North and the South. Eventually, the division will turn into civil wars. The southern states in the United States were wealthy because of the Plantations, where many enslaved people worked. In 1860, the southern states were richer than any European countries besides England. The plantations that owned over 50 enslaved people were rare; however, one-third of the white families still owned enslaved people. The majority of white southern families either had or expected to own enslaved people (para. 1 – Para. 10).
These enslaved people had no rights and were treated as commodities. Understanding the social norms in the Southern States is important to understanding this book so that you can understand why Huck thought and behaved the way he did in the books.
Characters Analysis
Evolving Character Relationships and Contrast with Tom Sawyer
What I found most interesting in this novel is that the evolving relationship between Huck and Jim. As the relationship evolves, Huck’s morality gradually evolves. At the beginning of the journey, Huck’s morals are shaped by the social norms of the southern state. Huck helps Jim go to the free state with the raft, but he looks down on him. Huck did mean to trick Jim a few times. Once, Huck ties the dead snake to Jim, knowing Jim is scared to touch the dead snake’s skin.
During their separation from Fog, Huck considered turning Jim in because he thought that might be right. During fog, Huck still sees the right thing—turning Jim in. Huck denies his temptation to turn Jim in this time; he still tricks Jim by making him believe the entire separation was Jim’s dream. Since Jim is upset with Huck’s plank, Tom feels terrible, so he apologizes by acknowledging Jim’s humanity and dignity. However, in the later chapter, he disagrees with the social norms of slavery. When the duke and king sold Jim, he declared, “All right, then. I’ll go to hell.” Huck is eager to sacrifice himself for Jim if that will free Jim from slavery.
Comparison with Tom Sawyer
The effect of introducing Tom Sawyer at the beginning and the book’s finale was also interesting to me. Tom and Huck are naughty, as you may read from Twain’s other books. They spend a lot of time together but have a big difference. Tom Sawyer comes from a more privileged background, while Huck comes from a house with a drunken and violent father. Huck had had enough of nonsense, and he feared that his father would kill him if he kept living with him. That alone made a huge difference between the two, but the experience Huck gained from the trip impacted his growth immensely.
During the trip, he spends considerable time with Jim on the raft, where he starts to see Jim as an equal. He observed deception, violence, and oppression every time they got off to the shore. Facing and nearly being killed in the family feud between the Grangerfords and the Shepherdsons, the greed and deception of the Duke and King. Huck observed the greed, hypocrisy, and racism – the flaws of the pre-Civil War South. Those events stripped off Huck’s innocence. The introduction of Tom in the later book made the stark contrasts between the two. He understands the consequences of releasing Jim but is willing to sacrifice himself to get Jim’s freedom. For Tom, Jim’s rescue mission is a pretend adventure.
The Symbolic Significance of The Adventure of Huckleberry Finn
I want to discuss two symbolisms that stood out a lot for me: the raft and the shore. Huck’s adventure starts with the raft. The raft was the medium he could run away from his life with his father. Huck eventually met Jim on Jackson Island and helped Jim to get to the free state by raft. The life on the raft is simple and peaceful. Huck’s perception of the raft evolves throughout his trip. Unlike on the shore, Jim and Huck are equal. The raft is where both Jim and Huck see freedom from the social norm’s physical and mental restrictions. Gradually, Huck starts to see the raft as moral independence. On the other hand, the shore is where Huck observes greed, deception, violence, and oppression. I even feel Twain’s sarcasm of the hypocrisy of the society-civilized yet perpetuates inhumanity and justice.
Tom Sawyer’s appearance in the later chapter emphasizes the simple life on the raft. Huck and Tom Sawyer are plotting a rescue mission for Jim in the novel’s final part. Tom created this overly complicated mission by adding unnecessary details. Tom, unlike Huck, reads books such as Don Quixote, and the adventure must be romantic and dramatic. I cannot stop feeling that Twain’s trying to tell us that we may make things needlessly overcomplicated.
My Interpretation of Twain’s Intent
The first time I read it, I thought his intention was to criticize Slavery in the South. The second time I read this book, I also felt his profound message that “civilized” people can be inhumane and injustice. He is mocking the hypocrisy of civilized people. Someone like the widow Douglas or Miss Watson are supposed to be civilized, yet they have enslaved people. We can learn essential concepts like humanity from a simple life on a raft. Society, in general, overcomplicated things unnecessarily. The same thing is true for writing novels. A story should be simpler and straightforward – criticizing romanticism in literature. Most importantly, it is because the majority think it is correct, but that does not necessarily mean it is right. Thus, you must pause and reflect.
This book is considered one of the top 100 banned books due to the frequent use of derogatory words. The book tries to express the social issues of the time with the intention of telling how horrible it was-even many people thought it was okay. Moral is often shaped by the authority of society more than we think, and the book made me rethink how cowardly I am not to speak up about something I feel is wrong. I could not write down everything I noticed while analyzing the book, so I picked up a few pointers for this blog. I hope I have articulated why I consider this book well.
It’s only early September, but our lawn is covered in leaves. The reason behind this premature leaf fall is two trees in front of our house. The larger one, a towering presence on our neighbor’s property, overshadows the smaller tree on ours. When we had an arborist inspect a tree at the back of our house, he informed us that the smaller tree on our property was struggling. Its health is declining due to competition from its larger counterpart next door. I suspect there’s a silent battle for resources happening beneath the surface. Unfortunately, our tree is on the losing side.
It’s fascinating to think about how trees, which appear so still and tranquil, constantly struggle for survival. We don’t often consider what goes on underground, where their roots stretch out in search of water and nutrients. Our smaller tree, likely overshadowed and outcompeted by the larger one, shows signs of stress. It frequently sheds branches during strong winds, even though it looks healthy on the surface. It also seems to lose more leaves than the bigger tree, which is surprising given their relative sizes.
This year, both trees are shedding their leaves much earlier than usual. The lack of rainfall might be a contributing factor. Lawns around the neighborhood appear to be suffering, looking patchy and dry. It starkly contrasts with when we first moved to Nashville from Oregon in August 2018. We were struck by how lush and green everything was here. In Oregon, the dry summer season and water usage restrictions made it challenging to maintain a vibrant lawn. My wife, a lawn care expert in her own right, used to water our lawn sparingly but for extended periods to encourage more profound root growth. Having lived in the Waterloo region of Ontario, Canada, where water restrictions were common, she was well-practiced in keeping grass healthy with minimal resources.
Maintaining our yard has become more complicated over the years. With the early leaf fall this season, I’ve found myself transitioning seamlessly from mowing the lawn to collecting leaves. Fortunately, it’s been dry for the past week, making vacuuming the leaves much easier. Today, I spent a few hours on this task, stopping only when our water delivery arrived.
The cooler temperatures have been noticeable lately. The crispness in the air signals that autumn is just around the corner. It’s a reminder of how quickly seasons change and how each one brings its own set of challenges and rewards. Ever since my brain stroke, managing these chores has become more challenging. I’ve had to learn to pace, take breaks when needed, and not overexert myself.
Despite the extra work, there’s something satisfying about yard work—mowing the lawn, collecting leaves, or tending to the garden. It connects you to the changing seasons in a tangible way. I’m looking forward to the colors of autumn, even though it means more leaves to rake. Soon enough, my yard work will halt as winter sets in. At least we won’t have to worry about shoveling snow daily like in other parts of the country. For now, I’ll enjoy the last of the warmer days, the occasional leaf collection, and the beauty of this early taste of autumn.
Fall has officially arrived, bringing a welcome reprieve from the summer heatwaves we endured. Last night, the temperature dipped below 60 degrees, and it was still brisk when I woke up. To make the most of the cooler air, we’ve been keeping the windows open at night, leaving the house feeling chilly in the mornings. Today, I reached for my robe and slippers as I started my day, enjoying the cozy feeling of the house transitioning into the new season.
With cooler weather, we’ve focused on some long-overdue home improvement projects. One of these is our deck, which took a bit of a beating during the summer. We’ve been scraping and sanding, restoring it to its former glory. I plan to spend an hour on this chore once it’s warm enough to work outside comfortably. I’ll put on my audiobook and lose myself in the rhythm of the work.
My wife, who is an early riser, was already out on the deck when I joined her. Her day typically starts at 5:30 AM, regardless of whether it’s a weekday or the weekend. She had been out there for a couple of hours, diligently sanding away. Although she’s expressed some frustration with the repetitive nature of the task, she’s also found a silver lining in learning new skills. This is her first time tackling such a hands-on project; her enthusiasm is contagious. She’s discovering the satisfaction of repairing something yourself and learning the ins and outs of a task you’ve never done before.
It’s this desire to learn and experience new things that really defines her. She’s an avid reader, currently engrossed in Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, a book she finds deeply thought-provoking. Yet, she balances her love of reading with a drive to get out of her comfort zone. Whether repairing the deck or trying a new recipe, she’s always eager to explore and grow. For her, this deck project isn’t just about maintenance; it’s about embracing a new challenge and the satisfaction of mastering it.
As for me, I’m enjoying the process of working on the deck together. We’ve taken on a number of home renovation and maintenance projects over the years. While we’re far from professionals, each project has been a learning experience. Something is fulfilling about tackling these tasks as a team, figuring things out together, and seeing the tangible results of our efforts. It’s a reminder that even the most mundane chores can be an opportunity for growth and connection.
After we wrap up work on the deck, I’ll head into the kitchen to prepare the week’s pastry bites and get things in order before we make our favorite homemade pizza. With the cooler weather settling in, I’m also adjusting my running routine. I’ll switch to long sleeves for my morning runs, though it’s not quite cold enough for a jacket and gloves. Those crisp, frosty mornings aren’t far off, especially now that I’ve shifted to running before breakfast instead of afterward.
There’s something special about this time of year—the way the air feels, the shift in daily routines, and the cozy indoor activities that start to take center stage. It’s a time for reflection, new projects, and savoring the small joys, whether working on home improvements or enjoying the kitchen’s warmth. Fall is here, and with it comes a sense of renewal and the promise of new experiences.
Careful organization is essential to avoid feeling overwhelmed when we have numerous tasks. I’m tackling an additional project to refinish our deck, which has turned into a more significant undertaking than expected. We knew the deck had been painted, but a closer inspection—by poking and peeling off the paint—revealed that repairs were needed before we could even begin sanding. It’s possible that some parts of the wood were already rotting when it was painted. Our deck was likely built around the same time as our house, making it approximately 20-25 years old. While we aim to complete the repairs within the next five years, we’re committed to starting the process now to prevent further damage.
Initially, we thought we could sand off the paint and apply a fresh coat, but as we examined it closely, it became clear that some boards needed to be replaced. It’s frustrating to realize how much work is involved, but the deck is essential to our outdoor space. We want to use our deck for relaxing evenings, so maintaining the deck is crucial. We don’t want to put off the repairs too long, as delaying could lead to more severe damage and costlier repairs.
In addition to the deck, my wife is planning a garden redesign for the next decade, which will be another significant project. She has a vision of creating a beautiful and functional space with areas for growing vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Thinking about the possibilities is exciting, but we must balance these long-term plans with our immediate needs. The focus is on the deck, but the garden will soon demand our attention.
Although deck repair and refinishing will be a multi-year endeavor, my wife is juggling a full-time job setting up our business. She plans to work on the deck during the week and take additional time off to push the repairs forward. This project can be quite time-sensitive, especially with the changing weather. We must complete the sanding and apply the stain before the colder, wetter months arrive. That’s why I’ve decided to focus on getting as much done as possible in the coming weeks.
While managing these projects, I also need to keep up with my running routine and regular yard maintenance. With the grass growth slowing down, mowing is less frequent, but the trees are dropping leaves at an increasing rate due to the lack of rain. If I don’t stay on top of the leaves, they’ll soon cover the lawn like a thick carpet, making it more challenging to clean up later. Staying active with running is essential for me, not just for fitness but also for mental well-being, so I need to balance my time effectively.
Next week is shaping up to be quite busy. The leaves have piled up enough to require vacuuming, and the deck project has moved on to the sanding stage. I must divide my time between these two tasks on Tuesday and Thursday. I aim to see how much of the leaves I can collect in an hour, allowing me to devote the rest of my time to sanding the deck. I hope to progress on both fronts with careful planning without feeling overwhelmed.
Balancing these projects with our daily responsibilities requires careful scheduling and prioritization. It’s easy to get bogged down in the details. Still, we can tackle each task individually by breaking the work into manageable steps. Whether repairing the deck or keeping the yard in order, staying organized and focused will help us achieve our goals.
Today brought some good news—my efforts have finally paid off. During my run, I achieved the pace I’ve been aiming for as part of my end-of-year goal. This achievement is a significant milestone for me, and it feels incredible to see my progress. Because of this success, I’ve set a new rule for myself: for each run, I will reduce my pace time by 5 seconds. The challenge I’ve given myself is to beat this reduced pace twice in a row, with no more than two failures in between. Once I accomplish that, I’ll lock in my end-of-year pace goal at the new speed.
One thing I’ve come to realize is how different it feels to focus on pace rather than just distance. Initially, my running goals were all about how far I could go. But now, I’ve become more conscious of the nuances involved in pacing myself, and it’s an entirely different experience. Running pace can fluctuate based on many factors I hadn’t considered before. For example, external temperature can give me a boost or slow me down considerably. Cooler days tend to energize me, while hotter days can make running feel like an uphill battle. Similarly, wind and weather conditions greatly influence how well I perform. A strong headwind can be exhausting, while a nice tailwind makes me feel like flying.
My physical condition is another critical factor. One day, I might feel full of energy and ready to tackle my run, while the next day, my body might feel heavy, making it harder to keep a steady pace. These variables make running a more dynamic challenge than I initially anticipated, and it has taught me to be flexible with my expectations.
In addition to pacing, I’ve also learned the importance of taking care of my body during this journey. Overexertion is a real risk, especially when the weather is extreme. Running too long in the blazing summer heat can be dangerous, mainly if I run low on water. I must constantly monitor hydration, as it can make or break a good run. Additionally, I’ve realized that I need to prioritize rest when my muscles are sore or not recovering properly. Pushing through without adequate recovery could lead to injuries or setbacks, which I want to avoid.
I also have specific dietary restrictions that make recovery more challenging. Since I have limits on my protein intake, I have to be careful not to lose muscle through overexertion. Muscle loss is a real concern for me, so I’m mindful of balancing my exercise with the nutrients my body needs to repair and grow. Monitoring my calorie intake is another part of the process. I need to fuel my body for these runs without going overboard. Through it all, I remind myself I’m running to improve and strengthen my body—not harm it. This is a promise I made to myself when I first started running, and it’s something I hold onto as I continue to progress.
My running journey began after I lost mobility due to a brain stroke. It was a tough time, but after several months of rehabilitation, I was able to walk again. Eventually, I worked my way up to running, a huge victory. Now, I’m running and pushing myself to get faster. While it’s still a struggle to improve my speed, I’m determined to keep going, step by step.
Today, I want to celebrate my success. It’s easy to get caught up in the next goal, the next challenge, but it’s essential to take a moment to appreciate how far I’ve come. I’m thrilled with how today’s run went, and it serves as a reminder that progress is possible, no matter how difficult the journey may seem.
I look forward to what comes next and am excited to see where this running journey takes me.
For the past four months, I have been exploring various banned books as a new project for this year. I discovered these titles in a book I purchased during my last trip to Key West. Although I was aware that some books carry mature ratings, I was surprised to learn that certain books are banned in the United States. Given how much I read, my husband found it odd that I didn’t know about this.
Since my 20s, I have been curious about the types of books North Americans read, so I explored many titles from bestseller lists. Until now, it has not even clicked once that some books have faced bans, so I have never specifically looked into them. My curiosity was piqued when I wondered what could lead to a book being banned in the United States. This reading project began primarily as a way to satisfy that curiosity.
The books are usually banned due to the following reasons: Sexually explicit, violent, unsuited to age groups, LGBTQIA content, profanity, political viewpoint, and so on. For example, The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood was banned due to profanity and “vulgarity and sexual overtures.” (The American Library Association, 2022),
To clarify, “banned books” in the United States doesn’t mean they’re entirely inaccessible. They are still available in physical and online bookstores; you can own and read them. However, you might not find them in specific public spaces like schools or libraries.
So far, I’ve analyzed and blogged about ten banned books, and each one has been a fascinating learning experience. In this blog, I want to reflect on what I’ve gained from reading and analyzing these controversial works.
Navigating the World of Literary Analysis
One of the biggest challenges I encountered during this project was realizing that, despite the number of books I’ve read, I lacked experience in literary criticism. While I’ve written about books and occasionally analyzed them for blog posts, I have no formal training in literary critique. I naively believed my passion for reading would suffice, but I quickly discovered that was not enough. I realized This when I read “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood. I could sense the quality of the writing but struggled to articulate why I thought the book was excellent.
Books like Homer’s Iliad or Shakespeare’s Hamlet have been celebrated for centuries, but what about modern works like The Handmaid’s Tale? Having a good rating doesn’t automatically make a book legendary. It’s a well-written book, but how do I evaluate its merit beyond its popularity? A legendary book can be published at any time, but understanding its value requires a logical approach to analysis.
To address this gap, I began studying literary analysis, taking extensive notes on each book I read. I even bought a textbook on literary critique. My analysis is still evolving, but my notes have significantly improved since the start of this project. I often feel the urge to revisit my earlier reviews and refine my thoughts.
Even with my basic understanding of literary techniques, reading a book transforms the experience. It’s like visiting the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam and discovering the hidden layers beneath his paintings. I never thought of acquiring this knowledge before. Still, it has enriched my reading experience immensely because I am in constant dialogue with the author, which I thoroughly enjoy even though my reading speed has slowed.
Expanding Awareness of Social Issues
All the books I’ve read in this project have been provocative in some way, challenging me to confront uncomfortable truths. Each one addresses significant social issues, prompting me to conduct contextual research using statistics, newspapers, journals, and websites related to the themes explored in the books.
Coming from a relatively privileged background, I wasn’t fully aware of many of these issues. I knew they existed but never engaged with them deeply. Reading and analyzing these books has forced me to process and reflect on these realities. It’s like Plato’s allegory of the cave—I feel as though I’ve emerged from the darkness to see the light.
Some of these books affected me so profoundly that I struggled with their impact. My husband noticed my distress and worried about how deeply I was affected. To maintain my mental balance, I read lighter books in between. I feel a sense of guilt, knowing that people living these realities can’t escape them as I can with a different book.
The Fluidity of Morality
Before diving deeper into this topic, I want to start with a few questions: What defines an action or thought as moral? Who decides these standards, and how do they evolve over time? I grew up in a culture where social norms and expectations differed vastly from North America’s. When I moved here in my teens, I was struck by the distinct moral landscape. This cultural shift forced me to confront the idea that morality is not universal but somewhat shaped by context and background. I became aware of the danger of hastily labeling actions as moral or immoral based solely on my upbringing and values.
However, I hadn’t fully considered until recently how much time also influences our understanding of morality. It’s easy to overlook this aspect, but language and societal values constantly evolve. Once acceptable words are considered offensive, behaviors once deemed appropriate are now frowned upon. As I delved into historical novels like The Awakening by Kate Chopin and Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, I saw how much societal expectations have shifted over the decades. These books highlighted the norms of their time, and I grappled with the moral dilemmas presented in them.
This realization of the fluidity of morality led me to reflect on Michel Foucault’s ideas about how morality intertwines each era’s power structures and social constructs. He argued that our sense of right and wrong is not fixed but changes according to the needs and priorities of the ruling powers at the time. This concept is explored in his works, such as Discipline and Punish: The Birth of the Prison and The History of Sexuality. Foucault’s theories have helped me understand why something considered acceptable in one era might be deemed immoral in another.
Through this project of reading banned books, I’ve realized that my previous understanding of morality was limited. I used to think of morals as a static set of guidelines, but now I see them as dynamic and fluid, influenced by time, place, and power. This revelation has been both unsettling and enlightening. It has prompted me to question my own beliefs and to approach each book, not with the intent to judge but with an open mind, seeking to understand the context and complexity behind the moral choices of its characters.
Reflecting on the Journey So Far
Although I’m still in the early stages of this project, the experience has already been transformative. I initially set out to explore banned books out of curiosity, not fully aware of the profound impact they would have on me. Now, just 10% into the project, I realize that this journey is about reading controversial literature and challenging my beliefs and assumptions.
One of the most significant changes has been how I approach literary criticism. I used to believe a genuine passion for reading was enough to evaluate books. Still, I now see the value of a more structured, analytical approach. Understanding the historical and cultural contexts, identifying themes, and examining the use of literary devices have all enriched my reading experience. These tools have enabled me to delve deeper into each book, uncovering layers of meaning I would have otherwise missed.
In addition to gaining a better appreciation for literary analysis, I’ve become more aware of the social issues embedded in these banned books. Each one, in its own way, reflects the struggles and injustices of its time, many of which are still relevant today, forcing me to confront uncomfortable truths and consider perspectives I hadn’t fully acknowledged before. It’s a humbling experience, reminding me of the power of literature to spark meaningful conversations.
Finally, my understanding of morality has evolved. I’ve seen it as a complex, shifting construct influenced by time, culture, and power dynamics. This realization has made me more empathetic and open-minded, both as a reader and as a person.
As I continue this project, I’m excited to see how much more I will learn and grow. I’m approaching each new book with a sense of curiosity and an eagerness to be challenged. This journey is far from over, but I know it’s one of the most rewarding endeavors I’ve ever undertaken.
I’m only beginning this journey, but it has already transformed me. My views on the importance of literary criticism, social awareness, and moral ambiguity have expanded and deepened. As I continue reading, I look forward to discovering more about myself and the world through the lens of these controversial books.
Sometimes, reaching a target requires more effort than expected. Recently, I’ve been working diligently to increase my running pace, aiming to hit my 5km goal. I do not set unrealistic expectations for myself, but I believe in challenging my limits with monthly targets. I strive to improve each month, even by a small margin. Progress keeps me motivated and focused on my goals, no matter how incremental.
Today, I came within 5 seconds of my target pace, but I’m still falling short of where I want to be. Part of the struggle may be that I haven’t fully recovered from last weekend’s intense deck-building project. That physical exertion and my running routine have taken a toll on my body. Perhaps I’m pushing too hard. With compromised kidneys, my energy levels tend to dip quickly, and it doesn’t help that I’ve been struggling to maintain my protein intake. This lack of proper nutrition impacts my stamina and overall performance.
My wife often reminds me to ease up on myself and not let the numbers be a source of frustration. She’s right when she says that getting hung up on disappointing results can trigger people to lose motivation and give up. It’s easy to fall into the trap of obsessing over numbers and feeling like you’re not progressing fast enough. But I try not to rely on motivation alone, as it can be fleeting. I choose to look at it differently: being just 5 seconds off means I’m close, and with a little more effort, I can achieve that target on my next run.
Chasing after goals can be challenging, especially when progress feels slow or stagnant. There are moments when doubt creeps in, and I start questioning how long it will take to see the improvements I want. How much longer will my slow improvement continue? When those thoughts arise, I remind myself to shift my perspective and review my progress over a longer timeframe. In doing so, I can see that my pace is gradually improving. Although it’s not happening as quickly as I’d like, the improvement is there, and that’s what matters.
I’ve learned there’s no need for drastic course corrections. What I need is patience and persistence. My wife calls that discipline—and I couldn’t agree more. Discipline keeps me lacing up my shoes and heading out the door, even when the numbers aren’t where I want them to be. It’s about trusting the process and believing that consistent effort will eventually yield the results I’m aiming for.
While my running hasn’t been as smooth lately, I’m noticing improvements in other areas of my fitness journey. I’ve started incorporating daily stretching into my routine, and the results have been remarkable. My flexibility has increased dramatically compared to a month ago. I’m now able to perform stretches that were previously challenging for me. It’s a reminder that progress comes in many forms, even if it’s not always where we expect it.
Ultimately, it’s not just about reaching a specific pace or achieving a particular milestone. It’s about the overall journey of self-improvement, pushing through setbacks, and celebrating the small victories. Whether it’s a faster run or greater flexibility, every step forward counts. And with that mindset, I’ll keep moving forward, one run at a time.
