The Office Transformation
Once a month on a Thursday evening, the TMP office transforms into a lively ‘changing room’ for the Marunouchi Running Club. The idea for this club came from Casey Li, who has been involved in the MCT work and who loves running. Each time she invites various friends of hers to come along and run together with her. As members change into their sportswear, laughter and chatter fill the air. Their expressions are positively glowing, infusing the entire space with a bright, energetic buzz before we even start.
Your Own Pace
The course is the approximately 5km loop around the Imperial Palace. Our group of ten or so is a mixture of people, from keen runners stoically tackling two laps of the course, to those simply enjoying the scenery at a walking pace. The only rule is simple: be back at the meeting point by the set time.
From Observer to Participant
Their post-run group photo captured a genuine sense of accomplishment and camaraderie. Why does the simple act of running captivate people so much? What hidden gems lie within that time? To find the answer, I finally swapped my role as an observer for that of a participant—starting with a walk.
A Surprising Turnout
Joining for the first time, I was struck by the sheer volume of people running around the Imperial Palace—even on a chilly weekday evening after 6pm. The stream of people never ceased throughout our session.
Resetting the Mind
Mr. A, a fellow participant, shared the appeal with a sparkle in his eyes:
“I feel so happy when I finish work and think, ‘Right, time to run’. By clearing my mind and simply focusing on running, I can reset the day’s fatigue.”
This sense of accomplishment seems to lift the weight of work stress, giving us a fresh mindset to tackle new challenges.
Picking Up the Pace
As for my walk, I intended to go at my own pace. However, as others zoomed past, I found myself speeding up to a race-walking rhythm. And I even felt a sudden urge to run just a little further!
Why not?
Next time, I hope to run alongside everyone for at least the final stretch. While the exercise ensured a sound night’s sleep, my knees were rather wobbly the next day. Lesson learnt: don’t overdo it!
Runners and walkers alike, everyone is welcome at the Marunouchi Running Club.
By Mari Tanaka – TMP General Administration team staff member
MCT Sunday Morning Service
February 22nd, March 22nd, April 26th
09:45
MCT Wednesday Evening Service
February 4th, 18th, March 4th, 18th, April 8th, 22nd
18:30
Club Activities
Marunouchi Movie Club : April 1st
Marunouchi Runnning Club : February 19th
Marunouchi Art Club : February 25th
Marunouchi Islamic Culture Club (Christian perspective): March 11th
Please contact me for details: Hirano (jbhirano@tokyomarunouchipartnership.com)
Prayer Request —— Thank you for your prayers!
- Pray that we will be wise in our approach to those who do not yet know Jesus, and be able to invite them to join us.
- Pray that we would grow closer to one another as we worship God together.