A Runner's Prayer Poem by Martin Ward

My run may be a short sprint or a Marathon.
We know the starting time, but are never sure
when we will cross the finishing line.
May I refrain from looking at my watch:
watching the seconds and moments
as they pass; but enjoy the run,
as it will end all too fast.
Grant me contentment
whether finishing first or last.
Let me choose my words carefully:
preferring pray to profanities;
sharing words of encouragement
with those who need them most.
May I learn by my mistakes
and not fall into the trap
of setting off too fast, or losing the race
by easing off before the final lap.
May I always stay in the moment
and not lose my sense of purpose or direction.
Spare me some time to wonder
at God's Great Creation;
at sights, sounds and smells: of country lanes
lined with cow parsley, hawthorn and columbine,
or verdant fields with grazing sheep.
Keep me mindful of others:
giving way to faster athletes,
and being patient with those
who run at a slower pace.
We are all in the same race.
Let me appreciate the support of people
who line the route, cheering me on my way
and of the company of other runners,
who likewise understand
this glorious addiction.
For my family, who pray
that I will be safe as I run the course:
let their love be beside me always.
Should I hit the wall, let me run through it:
keeping strong by continuing at a sensible pace.
May the Great Run Director of The Race
and Their Angel Marshalls guide me along the route
that avoids me straying from the proper pathway.
Most of all, let me always aim for a Personal Best.
When I have crossed the finishing line,
the medal will be well earned and mine.
My thirst satisfied; I shall sleep contented
and wear my tee shirt with pride.
Amen.