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.
