runners. yea, we're different.

back in the 90s, i remember an ad campaign by nike running.  the ads were simple and usually featured runners in less than hospitible scenes with a four word caption:  runners.  yea, we’re different.   my favorite ad from this campaign showed a picture of a runner blowing a “snot rocket” with the caption “yea, we’re different.” 

to me, that simple phrase says so much and can be applied to so many aspects of life, particularly sports.   sleeping in -37 degree temperatures?  “climbers.  yea, we’re different.”   endure years of studying and pressuring yourself to earn perfect grades?  “doctors.  yea, we’re different.”

this phrase embodies the will push to through the initial discomfort of a challenge in order to enjoy the reward that it can provide.   it’s about ignoring short term obstacles and focusing on long-term benefits.  it’s about taking the road less traveled.

i love it.