Notes About The Poem
April-27- 2025
This or That . Vol. 32. Poetry Contest
Sponsor- Edward Ibeh
Re entered For Marathon Mile.22. Poetry Contest

 

RUNNER

 I am an amateur athlete running a race.
  In earnest, I try to speed towards my goal,
   My feet embracing the earth I tread
    My legs aching, but careful not to fall.

I encounter many obstacles in my course
But I keep covering some distance day by day,
Seeing every hurdle, a challenge to jump over,
Conquering every trouble that comes my way.

 Is not our life a race from birth to death? 
  Through rough and rugged roads, I run, 
   My face to the wind and my back to the sun.
    Until I reach my destination, my journey isn’t done.

I am in no hurry and wish to run at my own pace,
Knowing the race starts right where it ends.
I focus my eyes in front, that I won’t trip,
And look up to God that a helping hand He lends. 

 In this ride towards my destined goal
  I often stumble, but as I cover each mile,
   Though with difficulty and hardship,
    I feel like a victor and have reason to smile.

I strive to take each step as a rhythm in motion-
An attempt to push forward for a goal to reach,
With the pulse of energy coursing through my veins,
Not giving up, not allowing any breach. 

_______________________________________

 Never mind, you don’t achieve all your goals,
  Or the winner’s trophy, you may not flaunt,
   Keep running with all your might 
    That’s all what matters, I can warrant.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

Poem

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Dietrich Avatar
May 7, 2025 at 4:59 PM
Congrats. I remember how much I liked this one
Guptar Avatar
May 6, 2025 at 12:25 AM
Heartiest congratulations dear friend on your high placement in this contest with a pleasant poem on running the race of life, never giving up despite hurdles and obstacles. This is the way to proceed in the journey of life. Wish you the light of blessings to illuminate your path in life.
Ibeh Avatar
May 4, 2025 at 6:34 PM
Heartiest congratulations on your win in my contest with this exquisite poem, Valsa. Great job!
Onclaud Avatar
April 28, 2025 at 6:40 PM
courage is a virtue andcthis piece resounds with it...remarkable, valsa...my interpretation of the prompt is so far from your work! namaste
Rolland Avatar
April 28, 2025 at 6:01 AM
waw, a wonderful poem, wishes it will be "read by generations to come", don't know, but it is fascinating poetry, deep and enlightening, thanks poet for the wonder
Buhagiar Avatar
April 28, 2025 at 5:44 AM
I agree that it is important to win as to take part. To feel you have achieved honour even if you come last is an honour. Best wishes in your contest, dear Valsa.
Empress Avatar
April 28, 2025 at 2:45 AM
Dear sweet valsa, This is such a heartfelt and sincere poem woven from your heart, amateur runner in life but in poetry you are so fluent, and is one that outshines many for the sincere and seamless manner you express, and the way youv written this truly does define the race of life and i think many can resonate too, i especially loved the lines "Though with difficulty and hardship, I feel like a victor and have reason to smile." And that's how we all should be, eventually, and the ending shows what a humble soul you really are! Pleasure reading this poetic gem! A fave for me! Best wishes! Sending you light always
Dietrich Avatar
April 27, 2025 at 7:54 PM
Excellent messaged here, Valsa. You write so well on various topics . I did my runner very differently
Goldsmith Avatar
April 27, 2025 at 11:53 AM
I enjoyed reading your wonderful "RUNNER" write. Great Ending... We must try... "Good Luck" Have a wonderful Sunday.........
Poet Avatar
April 27, 2025 at 9:55 AM
Dear Valsa, your great poetry uses the image of life as a race. The speaker, an amateur athlete, reflects on his life's path, emphasizing tenacity in the face of adversity and the value of moving at one's speed. The poem implies that the importance is not in accomplishing every objective or receiving acclaim, but in the work and commitment to keep going forward. Your use of basic yet expressive language conveys emotions and experiences. Words such as "earnest," "pain," "hurdle," and "victor" convey a feeling of effort and resolve. The usage of terms such as "pulse of energy" conveys the vigor of the voyage.
Kendrick Avatar
April 27, 2025 at 7:40 AM
Yes, we can only run for the prize of the high calling of Jesus Christ and then we will finish the race with a home in heaven. Thanks for sharing this one with us. Sara K
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