Running The Race.....

I hear the sound of my feet hit the path. A soft cool breeze is blowing on my face. I prance down the winding path controlling my breath. I feel strong and energized. I start to feel the warm adrenaline flowing through my body. I am free and confident. The path is breathtaking. Tall trees frame the way. Off in the distance water rushes through the creek. God's creation is surrounding me. The sight calms my soul. All is well.

Others are running their race. I try not to be distracted by them. I must focus on my goal. I am my own distraction. I am feeling good, the adrenaline increases and I want to go faster. I must use my energy wisely, there are many more miles ahead. The seconds tick rapidly. I have completed the first mark.

I reach the halfway point, I check my watch. I am doing great, but my chest is getting heavier. I relax and inhale oxygen through my mouth. Drops of sweat are dripping down my face. I feel a twinge of pain in my right leg. It is bearable. I focus on the horizon instead of my feet on the path. I observe the runners ahead of me. I examine their pace, their shape, their being. It takes my mind off the road and my anxiety. My mind wanders. I think about my life. I thank God for the ability to run. I ask Him for the strength to carry on. I wonder where I would be if I had chosen a different path. I ponder on what the future holds. I praise God for the place I am now. I continue the race, accepting the challenges ahead.

The last stretch is long but I know the end is near. I want to give every ounce of myself. My head is getting light. I feel dizzy. Pain is flowing through my muscles. Relax! My mind says slow down! Voices are telling me to stop, rest, give up! My heart argues that it is almost over. I will not give up now! The clock is pulsing faster and faster, but I feel like I am in slow motion. I can see the finish line. Finally, the end is near. My legs rotate , moving like a machine. My arms are pushing against the thick air. My feet pound on the gravel. I start to hear the cheers ahead. Then I see my three boys smiling at me. "Go, Mom,Go..... You can do it!" "Mom, you are almost there!" "Peg... You are doing great!" The finish line is just ahead. I push my whole being through the line.

My heart beats rapidly. I am gasping for air. I keep walking so I don't collapse. I did it! I think my time was good. I'm confident that I met my goal. It doesn't matter, I did my very best. I didn't give up. I slowed down at times but I made up for it at the end. I fought the good fight. A sense of pleasure and joy fills my soul. I am fulfilled. I feel alive! I won this race. All is well.

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run is such a way as to get the prize." 1 Corinthians 9:24