You Left It At Home

You were so focused on doing well in the race that you left the most important thing at home. How was that possible? You went over your checklist 100 times and made sure that everything was packed. Your backpack was stuffed to the gills. Nothing else would fit, but you forgot it. And you will need it.

You have used this a million times. It has always gotten you through the race. Some races you use it a ton and others not so much. But you have never not had it with you.

You have your goggles for the swim so it cannot be that. Doesn’t matter though. You will still have a tough time seeing under water all because you left this at home.

You know it’s not your bike since you just pumped up the tires to make you go faster. But the hills are going to seem interminable long without it.

It saved your butt last week when the temperatures were climbing and everyone was suffering in the heat. You have your water bottles and electrolyte pills but this is so much more important.

Is it your running shoes? No, but your feet will hurt just as much without this as they would without shoes. Sure your shoes are worn in but they will not be able to protect you as much as this would.

You brought plenty of bananas, power bars and gels to keep you nourished but you are going to feel empty as the race continues.

You race number is in your bag but without this that is all you are, a number. This would have let you stand out from the crowd. No, it is not your neon green running top but it is just as prolific.

Will you be able to borrow someone else’s at the race? No. Everyone needs there’s and it would be like asking someone to use their Speedo. It is just too personal of an item.

You have cash so maybe you buy another one when you get to the race. Forget it. You got this as a gift and have not been to a store yet that carries a duplicate.

All is not loss though, you can still race. I have seen it done before. People have gotten to the finish line without this. They don’t look like they are having a good time but I have seen them finish.

Sometimes it is difficult to tell whether they used the item or not. The grimaces on their faces as they cross the finish line cover it up and leave us guessing if they ever took it out of the bag. Usually though, as their pain dissipates the item appears. Revealing itself like a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day, it is there.

A smile.

It would not have taken up any room in your backpack but could have made a world of difference in your race and in your life.