What Showing Up Looks Like (Hint: It’s Sweaty and Slow)
It’s Global Running Day, and I want to talk about what running really looks like for some of us.
This is me: red-faced, breathing heavy, moving at what many would call a “brisk walk with flair.” A 12-minute mile is basically an all out sprint in my world. But I’m out here anyway. I’m showing up, step by step, and sometimes that’s the biggest win of all.
I’m not a natural runner. I don’t glide along effortlessly with perfectly timed playlists and a steady pace. I run because I believe in what movement can do—for our hearts, our minds, and our confidence. And I run because I'm part of something bigger.
As the Executive Director of Girls on the Run Piedmont, I see the power of movement every single season. Movement helps girls shake off the pressures of the day and tap into their inner strength. It’s not about being the fastest or most athletic girl—it’s about learning how to show up for yourself, just as you are.
GOTR teaches girls to push past limits, not by chasing a finish time, but by discovering what they’re capable of when they don’t give up. I need that reminder too. And that’s why I run.
💗 That’s also why I’m inviting you to join me as a SoleMate.
SoleMates are our charity athletes—though don’t let that word "athlete" scare you. We’re just people who believe in the mission and are willing to move our bodies to raise funds so more girls can access Girls on the Run. You can run, walk, swim, dance, hike, bike, paddleboard—whatever gets you moving and inspired. You don’t need a fancy watch or expensive shoes. You just need heart.
You pick the goal. You set the pace. And every step you take helps a girl somewhere feel seen, safe, and strong. That’s pretty powerful stuff.
You don’t have to be a runner. You just have to believe that every girl deserves the chance to feel like she belongs. To learn how to speak up for herself. To finish something hard and throw her arms in the air like she just won the whole world—because, honestly, she kind of did.
Want to learn more?
📩 Shoot me an email: Kathy.Butler@girlsontherun.org
🖥 Check it out here: www.gotrpiedmont.org/solemates
📖 Or browse other stories on our blog: www.gotrpiedmont.org/news
And if you’re out there today, doing your version of a 5K—or maybe just walking the dog or chasing your kids around the yard—know that we see you. We celebrate you. And we’re cheering you on from wherever we are.
Here’s to finding your happy pace and using it to do some good. 💪💗