“Write what you know.” This is a golden rule for some writers; others, simply a cliche. So when I was challenged to write a 100-word story, no more, no less, that’s just what I did.
Five Minute Lit was kind enough to publish my words and experience during Mile 18 of the Chicago Marathon, which I completed on October 10, 2021.
Not a Sprint
Mile eighteen. My body speaks to me; it tells me to stop. It can’t continue, it can’t endure. The skin under my sports bra is chaffed, I can feel the warm blood between my toes. A message transmits from my head to my body. My body says no to my head that says yes. I look down at my watch. 22,654 steps. Time hasn’t moved, strides haven’t gained momentum. This will be the hardest stretch of my life. Worse than childbirth, I am sure. Trust your training, I tell myself. Mile 19. The finish is far, but one mile closer.
Erin Dawkins is a small business owner, writing teacher, and mother-runner from Clawson, Michigan. She received her MA in English from Wayne State University. runsthroughlife.com Instagram: @erin_dawkins
Runs Through Life 