I ran the Jerusalem Marathon: Here's 4 reasons Israel will thrive - opinion

• Published date: 16 March 2024
• Author: MAAYAN JAFFE-HOFFMAN
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

But I could not decide whether to pull on my running shoes last Friday

I had registered for the Jerusalem Winner Marathon 10K. I usually run the 21.1K, but recent months have been difficult – personally and for our country – and I have not had time to train correctly. The day I signed up for the race, I had not thought much about it. However, on Friday morning I found myself doubting my ability to complete the race.

I hesitated about heading to Sacher Park, where the race began. I didn't feel like competing, or like the idea of being in a crowd, and I thought the hills might be too steep.

Deep down, I knew I'd regret not participating. I knew I would only run through the finish line if I showed up at the starting line.

I also understood that my race this year was not about competing but persevering.

This year, the Jerusalem marathon revitalized my hope in our country. Here are four reasons why I know that Israel will survive and thrive after the Oct. 7 massacre, that I learned from the race.

We run in unison, but we are diverse

Though relatively narrow, Jerusalem's streets miraculously accommodated the staggering 40,000 runners who turned out for the race – even more than in a "normal" year. The roads, usually plagued by traffic and noise pollution, were painted in melon, the color of the race shirt that most people wore this year. But underneath the uniformity was the diversity that is part of the secret of Israeli success: young and old, religious and secular, male and female, Sephardi and Ashkenazi, and immigrants from around the world.

We all live here together with our unique ideas and ways of life. Sometimes we fight. But mostly – and certainly when needed – we stand in solidarity.

All of those different perspectives give Israel a distinct advantage. Research has shown that companies with diverse teams have greater cash flow per employee, and that inclusive work environments foster higher productivity. Our country is diverse.

We all win when we cross the finish line

One thing I enjoy about running is that it's not just about beating others; it's about challenging yourself. You set your own goals and try to improve your performance.

When I competed more seriously in high school and college, our focus wasn't solely on winning races but also on setting personal records. These records are special because they're all about how you're feeling, how hard you push yourself, and how consistent your pace is.

The best part of finishing a race is that satisfying...