runner's high

Blood pumping
Anxious muscles tremble
Anticipating the shot
Eyes raised…
Finish line in the distance

Released by the gun
Flying with commencement energy
Breath, heart, feet combine
Pulsing in synchronized rhythm…

Pain seeps and throbs
Muffling thought
Feet falling into place
By some strange strength

Ecstasy…
Is agony collapsed at the finish;
Gasping for joy
Because the Prize
Exceeds the sacrifice.