They called it P.E. … Physical Education. I guess the title was accurate. It was physical and I learned something. Actually, I learned two things: I can’t run … and I sure can’t count while I’m running.
Windom’s dusty little track set at the edge of what was loosely considered a town. There wasn’t a tree in sight to stop the prairie gale. Clouds sped across the sky mocking my pace around the limestone gravel track.
I was nearing the end of sixth grade and Kansas was already baking. It was way too hot for strenuous exercise, but this was our P.E. final. Everyone had to run a mile.
I shuffled around the track as best I could, choking on the dust of the herd ahead of me. The cloud died down as one kid after another pulled off the track. There were only a few still “running.” It was the usual suspects. That percentile of children specifically created for the coach’s vocal entertainment. “Pick it up Wiziarde … the bus is leaving!”
I ran up the straightaway opposite the low section of bleachers where my classmates were lounging. Hot air scorched my lungs, sweat seared my eyes, I rounded the corner staggering, but picked up the pace as I saw the finish line drawing closer. And … was I hallucinating? It looked as if my peers were cheering me on … encouraging me to finish the race. A few more strides, and the wind carried the truth to my ears. They were all chanting “One more lap!” I nearly collapsed. Not only was I finishing dead last … I couldn’t even count to four.
There have been times since … when I thought I couldn’t go on. Not physically, but emotionally and spiritually. There have been times when I thought I had finished a race and passed a test only to discover I had to go around again. It seems I still can’t count. Maybe l should listen to Coach Paul … “If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!” 1 Corinthians 10:12
Actually, Paul and the other apostles have been much better coaches to me than Mr. Beaver and Mr. Heim. But I guess that shouldn’t surprise me since … physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:8
