Running nowhere fast

If I were to ask you one simple question,

would your tongue retreat in haste before

giving an answer?

Or would you, without reluctance,

deflect every single word

into the outer limits?

***

Sometimes we sideswipe opportunistic

chances to perform our magic—

nursing contemporary wounds

with the sneer of a rabid dog...

That strange elixir you mix to

conjure strength

lacks one important ingredient.

The knowledge of it escapes you

every time.

How can one complete life-progressing objectives

with a recipe lacking seasoning?

For that, my friend, wisdom offers a lead:

Running from problems

in a frenetic marathon

doesn't burn calories

or build muscle,

it drains essence from an

already depleted reserve.

Stand your ground!

Arm your base with impulse and

courage!

You may not be fully prepared for

life's impromptu dilemmas,

but the deeper the dive,

the clearer the picture.

***

We are all nominated,

vying for that academy award for

best-supportive soul.

An accolade requiring more than

loving thy neighbor.

Love thy self!

Trust me:

once you quit running from who you are, life will be waiting at the finish line.