I longed to join the race.

So I did.

Though barefooted.

Though unready.

I valiantly tried to run fast.

To go near the finish line.

But it was still so far.

I wasn’t even half way there.

I started to grasp for air.

Yet I didn’t dare to stop.

I slowed down.

But went on.

But I suddenly sojourned. And stared.

As somebody else came near.

Tears fell. I turned and walked back.

Game over.