The Same Race

by Màrtainn Mac an t-Saoir

We’re running the same race
but we could run it better
our pace could be more carefully measured
our breathing less laboured by guilt.

We could be more aware
of the wonder of our surroundings
the sheer timelessness rather than the times
to be shaved, lost, subverted by age.

We could wear our bodies less foreignly
pin a more accurate number to our vests –
have a choice regarding the content –
turn out with equanimity in all weathers,
to cheer the winning losers thrashing the losing winners
without demanding the science of why
or the date of the next such race.