For the last several years at Thanksgiving, my sister and I have run the annual Turkey Trot together, and every year I am surprised at how out of shape I am. But it is amazing how a simple line marked out on the ground can so dramatically impact the way one runs in a race. During the race, I run with purpose, focused on finishing with a time I consider respectable. However, as soon as I pass the finish line, I begin to wander, trying to catch my breath while watching the other runners. There is a stark difference between how I run before and after the finish line.

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