As the sun rises her tears dry from the heat

pushing the limits of her body, mind, and spirit.

The finish line is just around the corner and her throat is dry from the lack of water

and her head starts to throb from dehydration.

Unable to feel her legs she focuses on her mind before her body fails.

The spirit is reserved for the very end of this race.

As her mind starts to picture the most beautiful images

and takes her to an island, a garden, the ocean, the river and at last an incredible waterfall is just ahead

She swallows the hard film resting along her cheeks

and opens her mouth to taste the refreshing coolness of the spring water flowing along the rocks.

Finally, her secret weapon is released and spirit bursts in with the energy as she completes the final mile.