Running From the Back of the Pack

I can see the leaders up ahead;
So confident, not looking back,
So self-assured, so self-absorbed,
Not considering the lowly pack.

They seem to run so effortlessly
With posture not unlike
A standing portrait, straight and true
With eyes fixed in a stoic gaze,
The rising, falling movement of
Their heaving chest a testament
To patient training of their skill,
To calm resolve and confidence.

Their demeanor serves them well,
But I have one advantage here.
I can watch their every movement
From my trailing vantage point.

So, I will let them set the pace
As I wait patiently behind
And we'll just see who happens to be
First to cross the finish line.

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