Catching My Second Wind

Catching My Second Wind

I DON’T COMPETE in races—shoot, I don’t even consider myself a runner. But I do jog my three miles in 33 minutes and 15 seconds every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Sweating like a Texas sow in June, I do fine right up until I’m about 2.25 miles into the run. But then I hit a wall. My legs become heavy, my breathing is more labored, and I convince myself I can’t go on. This is stupid. Who am I trying to kid? I’m too old for this nonsense.

For the next quarter mile, I doubt my ability to finish. For the next three minutes, I lose all confidence in myself; I dwell on my shortcomings; I focus not on what I’ve accomplished but on what’s left to be done; and I become discouraged.

But I travel on. I continue to put one foot in front of the other because I know at about my 2.5-mile mark, I will catch my second wind and have just the energy I need to carry me to my goal (and breakfast).

According to Wikipedia, there are several theories behind this phenomenon of catching one’s second wind. One is that the second wind is the result of the body finding the proper balance of oxygen to counteract the buildup of lactic acid in our muscles; another theory is that the second wind is the result of an increase in endorphin production (endorphins are a type of hormone that reduces the sensation of pain and affects emotion); the final theory is that there are no physiological changes in the body at all, but that the second wind is purely psychological, the by-product of the confidence and pride one gains by passing one’s supposed limitations.

Some gals hit the wall in their midforties; others find they lack the stamina, interest, or even the desire to run a meaningful life race in their fifties or sixties. No matter the decade, I think it happens to a lot of us, including the guys. Finishing the race becomes a challenge, and finishing it well becomes pure fantasy.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. (Hebrews 12:1)

As I lace up my sneakers, I consider instead going to the kitchen and having a Danish. But is that the legacy I want to leave—a legacy of giving up just as I hit my stride?

I’ve yet to find a Bible verse that instructs us to retire; to quit; to be complacent. I think God intends for us to make a difference until the day we die. If you agree, will you join me as we catch our second wind?