Who stole my pace?

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.

You stop looking ahead.
You look at your shoes.

Everyone keeps running.