Life's a Metaphor, and I'm a Runner

Life's a metaphor and I'm a runner
It's a funny thing to think, to run.
But don't we all?
Some people step outside their haven
then creep back in
like the overcautious gestures of a yellow belly turtle
that doesn't want to cross the road
we don't want to sweat, hurt, or tire
Then why?
do others like to embrace the sunshine
or swallow the feeling of accomplishment...
Why do some like short, fast runs
say...down to the grocery, a quick fix
for a particular motive. Eating is a motive.
Maybe you make the run for milk, bread
booze. But only you can choose
your pace and your distance-
Don't get discouraged if someone is faster...
they may be going on a shorter trek
down the block and back-
or maybe down a steep slope.
Kiss the hills with all your might!
Rain,
we've all run through it!
Some seek shelter, some wade it out as it pelts their skin
but we all overcome it. Every one of us
Me? You'll see me
Splashing
through the puddles
mud and dirt caked on my shins. I'll be filthy
so filthy, covered in earth drawn
medals. Strong-
didn't let a little water stand between me
and the calling pavement. That reflection you see
on the glass of the local barber shop
downtown against the glittering brick walls
that housed history. That's me
because no one lived life on the inside
their feet up in the
air, caught up in the humming of the wired AC.
no, I think I'll run everyday- avoiding shelter
when it storms. Laughing at a reflection
that smiles while every bone inside cries out for rest.
They'll thank me- I hope.
At night, I'll lay my head down to sleep
sweet dreams of spinning joints in heavy sockets
and know the gears never stop turning.
Life's a metaphor
And me? I am
a runner