running

my daughter has just started training with the cross country team. She loves it. I watch her running laps across a field, pony tail flying behind her, little legs pumping and sheer determination to be first in the group flashes across her face.

When she runs I see my mother. I see her running, feeling free, her whole life ahead of her. Nothing can stop her except herself.

And I know how one story ends. waiting for the best to come last, and dying before she can even get there.

And I wonder how my daughter's life will play out. I want her to not wait. don't hesitate. don't settle. our time is too short. keep running. you're free.