You’re in a long-distance race.

There is no map.

For a while, your breathing settles.

Your shoulders drop.

Your feet find the ground.

Not too fast.

Not too slow.

Your rhythm.

Then two runners pass you.

Smooth. Quiet. Effortless.

A voice whispers: catch up.

So you do.

Your breath shortens.

Your stride stiffens.

The road shrinks.