I didn't start running because somebody asked me to become a runner. Just like I didn't become a novelist because someone asked me to. One day, out of the blue, I wanted to write a novel. And one day, out of the blue, I started to run-simply because I wanted to. I've always done whatever I felt like doing in life. People may try to stop me, and convince me I'm wrong, but I won't change.
In his book "What I Talk About When I Talk About Running," Haruki Murakami reflects on the spontaneous nature of his pursuits, particularly in running and writing. He emphasizes that neither his passion for running nor his desire to write a novel came from external pressure or expectation. Instead, both activities arose out of a personal longing to engage in something meaningful to him.
Murakami illustrates the importance of following one's instincts and desires, regardless of external opinions. He insists on remaining true to himself, stating that while others may attempt to dissuade him from his chosen paths, he will maintain his course. This underscores the idea that personal fulfillment comes from following one's passions, not from conforming to what others want.
