The First Mile Marker

As I approach the first mile marker I realize I am still glorying in the cheers and hoots of my family; the proverbial die is cast. a weird smile on my face, I have never seen so many long legs as they dart past. Some of their bottoms are so exercise- lean that they barely bounce at all. This marathon is my first race; I watch others break free. Do not look back, facing forward, smiling in a keen unnatural way. It is best if I do not know there are not others behind me. I fear it, but to verify it might make me lose my energy. I clear my mind, thinking one step at a time, I follow their trail. but what about your torn ACL an internal voice queries. I still it immediately, afraid it will cause me to fail. The first mile marker is within my sight. Another runner dashes past me, and throws me a quick grin. I am invincible, ready, willing, in shape for this. I run after them, glorying in an anticipation of a win. Written 12-20-2018 Contest: 2019 Poetry Marathon sponsor: Mark Toney