We all run metaphorical races of one type or another....And in those races, it's not so much a competition with anyone else, but instead, it's more like a time trial...just you versus the clock...Many times we've crossed that finish line, sometimes faster than we expected, sometimes slower...but we crossed it.....However, sometimes you'll come across those races where it starts out pretty good, gets a little tough near the half way point, and it becomes all down hill (figuratively) from there--no more worries....And when you are so close to finishing and can just about feel the tape about to snap as you'll soon run through it....
You trip...over your own feet or there's some kinda pothole in the track...either way, your race seems just about over....
What do you do?...Do you get up, dust yourself off, pick up where you left off, keep running, and finish the race?...Now you'll train harder and better...regaining the love of the event even after your slip-up...Now you'll be better than before...you'll be stronger, sturdier....
Or are you just gonna throw it all away right there and give up what could have been?