One of the greatest themes in "Raymond's Run" is sense of identity. Hazel is bombarded with criticisms of being her brother's protector and having interests in athletics instead of a more feminine activity like the May Pole Dance. Her mother "thinks its a shame I don't take part and act like a girl for a change" but she is not worried about trying to be someone she is not. She makes that clear when she states "I'm serious about my running, and I don't care who knows it."
One theme in the story is "love can make people very generous." Squeaky loves to run, but she's willing to give it up to train Raymond as a runner. She says, "I've got a roomful of ribbons and medals and awards. But what has Raymond got to call his own?" This shows Squeaky wants Raymond to be successful too. Therefore, because of her love for Raymond, Squeaky is willing to give up what's most important to her so that he can have something he loves as well.
