Title: Embracing the Back of the Pack: No Shame in Being a "Slow" Runner In a society obsessed with speed and efficiency, it's easy to fall prey to the notion that being slow is somehow shameful. This is particularly true when it comes to running, where it's all too easy to get caught up in comparisons with others, obsessing over finish times and paces. But as the runner featured in today's quotation reminds us, there is absolutely no shame in bringing up the rear. In fact, she sees it as something to be celebrated. Many of us have likely experienced the feeling of being at the back of the pack during a race, or even just a training run. It can be demoralizing to watch others pull ahead, feeling like we're falling further and further behind. But what if we shifted our mindset and saw the back of the pack as a place of strength, rather than weakness? After all, running at a slower pace can have many benefits. It allows us to focus on our form and technique, paying attention to our breath and the way our feet strike the ground. It can be a chance to take in the scenery around us, rather than rushing past it in a blur. And perhaps most importantly, it offers a different kind of challenge. Instead of racing against others, we're forced to confront our own inner demons: the doubts and fears that tell us we're not good enough, strong enough, fast enough. Running at the back of the pack means battling these demons head-on, and emerging victorious. So let's take a cue from this brave runner and embrace the back of the pack. Let's celebrate our slow and steady progress, rather than berating ourselves for what we see as failure. Let's run with joy and gratitude, knowing that every step forward is a triumph in itself. Remember: there is no shame in being a "slow" runner. In fact, it takes a special kind of courage and determination to bring up the rear. Let's embrace that courage, and run with pride. Quotation of the Day for Saturday, June 3, 2023. 