I’m an idiot. Some of you already know that. For the rest of you, here’s proof.

Tuesday a week ago I had dinner with two of my running friends; you’ve been introduced to them, Lorraine and Monika, as guest bloggers for Running Tuesdays. In our dinner talk, Lorraine and I found out that we share similar running issues with our calves. My calves have always given me issues, particularly when building up mileage or adding in speed work. In telling me what she has tried to overcome this issue, Lorraine mentioned she wears orthotics. 

In that moment, here were the thoughts in my head: 

That’s interesting. I have orthotics. I got them for a foot problem-pinched nerve. It hasn’t crossed my mind that I should try them for a calf issue. I wear them off and on if my foot gets aggravated. Maybe I should wear them more often. Of course, the podiatrist told me 4 years ago to wear them all the time, but what does he know.

As my friends are known for, they pressed me about what I was going to do about my calves. So I sheepishly admitted I had orthotics and rarely wear them. 

You know that look that your mother or the doctor gives you when you say something stupid? Well, I got two of those immediately. Good friends, huh?

So I went home and googled my issue. Of course, I found articles giving the pros and cons of orthotics. But I read enough to convince me I’d be an idiot not to give them a try. After all, all they do is sit in my closet. (In case you’re curious about this running problem, here’s one Article I found that backed up this decision.)

So that’s what I did. I ran the next morning, then the next morning. Following that second morning, here’s my text to one of my friends:

Orthotics in. Ran 3.2 yesterday, 4.7 just now. No issues. It never crossed my mind that this might be a solution. You’ve waited a long time to say it, so I’ll say it for you: I’m an idiot.

(Her reply): Lol. I just cracked out loud!!! We need friends in our life to help us see the real things. And only the real friends will tell us. You’re not an idiot…just a bit slow…the foot is attached to your calf, idiot…Lol.

Since then I’ve ran three times for about 20 miles…wearing orthotics…still no issues.

Life Application: Check the “closet.” The answer to your problem may already be in your possession. We’re all idiots when we ignore, overlook, discount or reject truth, advice, counsel, and God-given remedies. And that’s what it means to be an idiot.