The Finish Line

I am not a runner. Once upon a time I went through a jogging phase, now I stick to weights and cardio. One thing I remember about running, though, was the importance of having a finish line--or at least goals to get you up the next hill.

I distinctly remember the first 5k I ever ran (the Country's Midnight Express in Columbus, Georgia). The first mile or so was OK, but after that I marked the run by street corners, stop signs and other landmarks. I focused all of my energy on just getting to the next thing. At times the finish line seemed so far away that it was irrelevant and not remotely motivating.

I know everyone is not wired this way...but I clearly am. The same seems to be true in motherhood. I really haven't minded having my people home this week as much as I have resented the uncertainty of it all. I was all about making the most of Day One--and Day Two. By Days Three and Four I was worn down. I felt like I was running a race at a sustainable pace and someone kept moving my finish line. I was psyched up for a certain distance/period of time--but when that became uncertain I became frazzled. Overwhelmed, annoyed and frustrated with the unknown and the lack of control. I wanted a game plan!

This afternoon we received news that school would resume tomorrow. It was as if my fire had been reignited. Suddenly, I realized time was ticking and we needed to get back outside and make the most of the last of our snow day. It was almost palpable, because my trio seemed to experience the same resurgence.

We returned from an afternoon outing to find the sleds I had 'rush ordered' last week had finally arrived. It was 4:40. The sun was starting to set, but we dashed out anyway--and had the most fun we've had all week.
It was as if we all knew time was ticking and we had to make this count. So we did.
Snow melts. Flowers fade. A man (or woman)'s life is but a breath. May I remember this sense of urgency in my every day life. Who knows whether my finish line is at 96 or 36? I must run with perseverance, making the most of every opportunity and make this life count.

And I pray the Lord will make my attitude similar to my children's...who found great joy in (of all things) a ditch. Joy, joy in the journey!!