I ran up the hill before the others could follow.
I held onto the leash connected to my dog.
He kept me going. It’s the only way I could get up
without feeling the air escape from my lungs.
It gave me time to move forward without thinking.
We passed families carrying down Christmas trees,
I leaned against the side of the path.
I refused to give in to the lack of oxygen,
not until I had time to get it back,
not until I was at the top.
We round the bend.
I collapse (sit) on a dirt hill.
My lungs struggle to find air. I smile.
I made it to the top and now I can rest.
Victory, and friendship. ❤
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