Poem March 3, 1980 Issue

The runner

Susan Morey

I start
confident in God
aware of opportunity
peaceful, joyous, powerful in clear thinking
with the first step

I run
consistently
alertly
with freedom
dominion
childlike willingness to accept and
tackle challenge
looking upward
to overcome limitation
not to beat people
knowing I can win

I win
maybe not a medal
a trophy
first place
or a ribbon
maybe not personal glory
or the admiration of others
but that which will last me forever
willingness to give a little more
to rely more on God
for strength
joy
unlimited capacity
increased understanding
and clarity of concepts

I realize
growth
progress
God's confidence in me
His loved child
His perfect reflection
now