by M. Carlson

Created on: May 08, 2011

The Runner

Fleet-footed, she ran through the long grass and glided over a small bush, her hair flying in the wind.  Approaching the edge of the sunlit field, she slowed slightly searching for the foot path through the foliage, then bent and twisted to avoid a low lying bough, picked up speed and nimbly raced along the trail.  They said that as a child she never ambled or strolled, that she ran from morning to night.  Her running was a joyous dance of celebration at being alive, young and strong.

She reveled in the challenges of track meets and marathons throughout her school years and well into maturity.  Accolades were hers for the taking but her true joy came from the strength of her body and mind as her lithe limbs effortlessly raced over tracks and pathways.

Leaning on her cane, she lowered herself onto the weather-beaten bleacher bench. Degenerative disc disease had taken its toll, limiting even her ability to walk but it would never steal the spirit of running from her. She took great pleasure in the feats of other athletes, be they known to her or strangers. She cheered each one on to victory and celebrated their strength and power.  Running would forever be her passion. 

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