New runners who don't want to be seen

dbratton87

From someone who buried 2 family members in 2011 I definitely do not see it as disrespectful. As long as they are quiet, on the paths, and respectful of people grieving I think it's fine. Lots of people run in cemeteries. Totally not an issue of respect, IMO and I can't find anything on cemetery etiquette that says it is in poor taste. I would actually enjoy running and reflecting in the cemetery where my loved ones are laid to rest and I'm considering it after reading this. Although, now I am worried about other mourners judging me and misunderstanding my intentions.

Psychoanalytic

*shrug* So long as I'm not trampling over someone's grave, being loud and annoying, disrupting others, etc, I don't see what the issue is when it's in a public cemetery. Everyone has an opinion though. What you find as disrespectful isn't to others and so on.
Ever think that running may be some peoples' way of coping with loss? Everyone deals with things very differently. My way of coping with the loss of my best friend will certainly differ from how you handle the loss of your child. Same goes for everyone else and people they have lost...

LittleMissNerdy

I am expressing my feelings. Thank you for noting my anger. How observant. I can't recall ever being called PC. What does political correctness have to do with anything we are discussing here? Wow. Great group. Fabulous support for freedom of speech and free expression of thought. Wow. Perhaps the X rests firmly on my back, today.

Aren't we all just expressing our opinions? No one is telling you that you're wrong. Everyone is just sharing their POV on it is all.

HOSED49

I am expressing my feelings. Thank you for noting my anger. How observant. I can't recall ever being called PC. What does political correctness have to do with anything we are discussing here? Wow. Great group. Fabulous support for freedom of speech and free expression of thought. Wow. Perhaps the X rests firmly on my back, today.

No one here is gonna say anything to make you feel any better, youre angry and you expressed your opinion which you are entitled to. As are those who are saying in a respectful way that they feel its ok to run in a cemetery. Your anger is obvious in your subsequent posts, as I suggest a grief counselor I can see you lashing out at that idea, which is normal and natural for this situation. Everyone grieves, everyones lost someone, we all find ways to deal with it. Lashing out at the people on here who have no idea where your sons buried nor have they stated they will be running in the same cemetery he is buried at is your defense mechanism.....in these times we look for someone to blame and be angry at wether it be ourselves or a stranger passing by....
I think this post should probably stop after this as the idea behind it has been conveyed and out of respect for her recent loss lets just refrain from angering her anymore and let her grieve.

CauseyMac

I'm confused. I lashed out at someone? I am angry. You're right. Anger is a normal emotion. I have not just "lost someone." My only child was killed in an automobile accident in the prime of his life, at age 23. Yep. Angry. No doubt. However, I have only expressed my opinion, which I have as much right to do as anyone else. If I have lashed out at anyone, please accept my heartfelt apology. I cannot state strongly enough that it is never my desire to hurt anyone, in anger, or for any other reason. I've only expressed my feelings as someone who, obviously, disagrees with the mainstream on this one. And, that's fine with me. I wish you all a peaceful day and much success in your weight loss endeavors. I'll excuse myself now.

carlie_carl

Its not politically correct to have respect for others :-/ lets start running around retirement homes, Ive heard theyre quiet and Im sure running around a residential area would be fine to . . . its about curtosy, just because people do value where theyre loved ones are buried does not make them politically correct, I have no problem with it, but, I do understand why people would object to it.

jenalderman

bump to read later

JanineHarrison

Noting that Boston is in the background of the OPs photo, which I where I'm from also, I know exactly the kind of cemeteries around here that are appropriate to run in and visit for a relaxing walk. They hold festivals and other events at these places. They are historical and treated as such, visitors encouraged. Scattered with art, memorials to famous artists, writers, and other figures.

http://www.foresthillscemetery.com/
http://www.mountauburn.org/

I assume that this is the sort of places with miles of winding, stunning roads, gardens and sculptures that provide a beautiful, relaxing atmosphere. I always have seen running as almost a form of meditation and these types of places, the peacefulness and beauty, being alone, the perfect place to run.

Wow, those look like beautiful places. If I lived near one like that I would definitely run there. I'm not embarrased to have people see me run, even as a novice, but I love running outdoors around nature. Combine beautiful scenery and a runners high and it makes for a very reflective and rewarding experience. For me, I would try to be as respectful as possible and passing by graves of all people, those that died old or young, would only help me realize how lucky I am to be alive and know that I need to make my life worth living. I would also make sure I don't interupt any "greiving in progress" situations.

On a side note, and I'm really not trying to instigate, though it may be tough to think about, all sorts of things happen in cemetaries. The grass has to get cut somehow too, I don't think a quiet solitary runner could be any more disruptive than a roaring lawnmower and grounds crew. I can't control what others do but I can control how I let it affect me. Personally, I hold on more to the memories of those I lost, and since I am a person of a religious faith, I do believe that the souls of those people are elsewhere, so those things don't bother me as much.

Heaven71

I can't control what others do but I can control how I let it affect me.

Exactly, some people need to learn to mind their own and stop being the victim. Go there and do wehat you are there for, leave others to do as they may, as long as they are not damaging anything.

How do you know that the person running throuhg the graveyard is not running in tribute to aloved runner that they lost and buried there.

Someone said "I hope I never see someone running in the cemetary where my son is buried. It won't be a nice encounter they'll have with me."

How would you know why they were runing there? Maybe grandpa was a marathon runner and he is buried there. Mind your own business.

Just like driving on the interstate in the left lane. If someone come up on you going faster "slower traffickeep right" You have no clue why that person is in a hurry MOVE they may be trying to get to the hospital. Put yourself in their shoes or JUST MIND YOUR OWN and don't be a burden.

hesn92

I hate people seeing me when I run. I always get embarrassed because I suck!

JanineHarrison

I hate people seeing me when I run. I always get embarrassed because I suck!

Everyone was a beginner once. Don't be so hard on yourself. I'm not a great runner, and even struggle to call myself "a runner", but hey, at least I'm doing something right? Trust me, even hard core runners can look silly when they run. Just keep at it and you'll get more comfortable with it.

meagalayne

This was me for so long! I ran deserted trails and would stop to walk if I saw anyone.

Now, I am reminded of my roots every time I see a list runner and always want to cheer them on. It will get easier! We are all motivated by your dedication and drive to succeed. No judgement here!

SinIsIn

I could never run in a cemetary, mostly because *I* would see it as being disrespectful. My thinking is the paths there are meant for the families to visit the graves.. not for me to use to get my workout on.

That being said... no one should be embarrassed of running/jogging! There is nothing wrong with trying to be a healthier you! I love to go to the park and see that there are a lot of joggers. It's also very motivating.