The Longest Miles

The effort seems unending
waiting for that rush
the release of endorphins
to lull the self into comfort

The hills grow steeper
and the sunlight harsh
on sweat-slicked skin
losing salt on the climb

Relief will come
after the longest miles
trembling legs standing
atop the valley below

Ready for the world
and all it throws my way
finding balance in the havoc
through the cadence of my feet – Caroline A. Slee