Image via WikipediaMarathon by Judith Hughes, M.D., O.P.
Running recalls primordial eons
when predator and prey,
chasing and escaping,
meant to outrun death.
A fall was loss and win--
a meal of exhausted meat
to fuel another run.
Man's naked soles run fastest;
so remove your shoes!
Bare your feet for the sacred path.
Exorcise those predators within,
reptilian, carnivorous, nocturnal,
pushing you forward,
tearing at your gut.
Exertion is a deadly stalker.
Rest and stop struggling!
Ignore cravings, hunger and hope.
Why run?...a predatory thought.
Some choose to walk. All finish.
Behold the prize: prey and purpose,
the goal of glory, tempting trust.
Dehydrated, delirious, doubting
souls hunger, gasp and stumble.
Why fear? Be fit.
Only the unfit watch the race
and cheer: Go!, Go!
Be faster than the slower thousands.
Be master of your heart and breath.
Bear the pain--it passes.
Receive the offered orange
and drink the living water.
Throw out your arms to love,
your chest to break the golden ribbon.
Fall prostrate on the finish line,
And hear the words: "Well done."
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