A Simple Moment in April: Perseverence

April 13, 2013, 9:21 a.m.
The weather is still cool.  The sky is blue and it will no doubt get hot later in the day.  For now, the dappled shade offered by the scrub oak trees keeps me from getting overheated.  Under my feet, the packed dirt of the trail is a lovely shade of brown.  The grass along the edge is deep green. I've been running for almost an hour, and for the last twenty minutes I've been going uphill.  I am running alone and feel a little sorry for myself. Clara stayed home today, and no one from the Team is with me on this portion of the trail.  I continue to shuffle up the hill.  Trying to keep my form.  Trying not to cry.
9:24 a.m.
I have made it to the top of the loop.  My stride falls back into its regular form. No shade here.  I look down and see my shadow keeping pace with me. Dressed in running clothes, visor and a water belt, my shadow self looks strong and confident. I hear birds singing. Suddenly, I feel better. Alone; but no longer lonely.
9:29 a.m.
I have started the descent. I am running down deeply shaded switch backs, picking up speed and letting gravity provide most of my energy. Ten miles suddenly seems doable. I am surprised to realize that I am smiling.
******************************************************************************
A Simple Moment is a monthly meme sponsored by Alexa of Trimming the Sails, which encourages participants to share the sights, sounds and other small details of a moment in your life.  This link is now open. Why not join in?