On the last day of the year, I lined up
the items I would need for the night's race: fleece hat, wool scarf,
gloves, and an empty Thermos. Instead of running New York Road
Runners Emerald Nuts Midnight Run, I opted to volunteer for the
event's festival. One of my 37 Things including volunteering at more
races and (until the moment I arrived in Central Park), I had failed
in this endeavor.
The volunteer coordinator described my
mission:“Your job is to be helpful.” I donned on a bright orange vest that
identified me as VOLUNTEER and walked the perimeter of the area
surrounding the Bandshell and tried to look merry and bright. As a
librarian, the “Ask Me Anything” conversation bubble floats
permanently above my head. While the event does include a four-mile
race around the park, tourists and spectators flock to the free
outdoor dance party and midnight fireworks display. A large part of
my "job" for the night included pointing people towards the port-a-pots, recommending
where to stand for the fireworks, and directing the runners to the
baggage check and starting line.
Even with the freezing weather and numb
extremities, it was the perfect way to break in the new year: in a
glorious park in an amazing city, supporting the running community and surrounded by people old and
young, from near and far. I sipped watered-down hot chocolate,
wiggled to the music, and tried desperately to help people find the
nearest subway station. I always fail to exit the park in an
efficient manner. I think I'm heading west only to find myself on the east side.
Once I'm in the middle of the park, I forget the path that took me
there. Despite this, I choose to believe that my vague pointing, thoughtful pauses, map glancing, and perky instructions led all to be where they intended.
Happy New Year!
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