She ran...

She ran like a Greek Goddess. You know, the ones that have little wings attached to their heels? Long, lean, limber legs that propelled her to the finish line quicker than most girls her age. She did this in elementary school, then on to junior high, and, of course, in high school. She ran all the time. When in junior high, she rode her bike to the place where she would begin the run. An athlete all around. Her naturally golden curls were secured in a pony tail that followed her as she competed in the mile run or in a cross country meet. She was an inspiration to her teammates. She ran with the boys: she kept up with them during practice runs. She trained during the off season and she ran like a Greek Goddess; as if she had wings attached to her heels. At most events if one arrived late to watch one's child, the question would always arise, "How did Sarah do?" "Oh, she took 2nd," or, "she took 5th," or, "she took 10th."

Sarah, pictured with some of her team, is 4th from the left.

Saturday was to be her last run. She took 10th place at the Puma Invitational in Bend, Oregon. Her last strides taken on those long, lean legs. Her life ended today, and so did those amazing, awe-inspiring races yet to be run. She left behind friends, teammates, a family, coaches, teachers, neighbors, wanna-be long legged runners, and a proud school where Sarah was a track/cross country runner extraordinaire. There is a feeling of despair now. Sadness is reigning, and typical "problems" seem so insignificant. Questions with no real answers yet. Teenagers who aren't used to having a friend leave so suddenly. Parents who have to deal with the worst thing that could ever possibly happen to them.

There is solace in what I know, however: I know that where she is now, she is running. Running with those long, lean, limber legs into the arms of Someone who loves her and is welcoming her home. Run, Sarah. Run.