speed is subjective [i.e. influenced by personal opinion].

What one might perceive as a 50-yard-dash, may in reality be a year-long marathon... As the finish line slowly comes into view, the tortoise - so to speak - the one who has maintained a slow, steady & reliable pace - with only the odd sprint, in order to preserve harmony & maintain the status quo - remains resolute and continues on. The competition is fierce; ego, ire, envy, confusion....these emotions have caused many a contestant to stumble.

The tortoise remains patient & steadfast. Pushing on toward the finish line, the tortoise watches as its competitors struggle, eluding themselves & each other, searching for short-cuts and un-deserved victory. The tortoise chuckles & maintains pace. The tortoise had prepared well for this marathon. The tortoise plays fairly. The tortoise ignores taunts & jeers from the stands & its competitors. The tortoise is determined, methodical. The tortoise knows that slow & steady wins the race.

However, the tortoise is disappointed that its competitors don't comprehend the notion of self-knowledge, self-worth -- and is crushed to see that the fans in the stands haven't even noticed its progress. They sit watching, while the other competitors trip over each other, run round in circles - their antics have turned the event into a circus-of-sorts. An entertainment venue.

Some people just don't understand personal achievement. Or what it takes to get there.

by bary alyssa johnson