There’s a saying — “Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional.” I heard a story about a marathon runner who had his own interpretation of the saying.

    He said: “If a runner thinks he is tired then he is right. But whether he can finish running or not is up to himself.” I always remember these words when I am faced with a situation that requires persistence.

    When I was a little girl, I hated P.E., especially running. I could never finish a 400m race. Once, my P.E. teacher said any student who failed to finish would immediately fail the class.

    “I should try my best this time,” I said to myself.

    While I was running, that saying ran through my mind. Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional. When I wanted to give up, I pushed myself and hung on until the end. Since then, I have rather liked running. I am very proud of this fact.

    Long-distance running is a metaphor for life. Just try to be persistent and confident when faced with difficulties. You will be surprised about how easy things become.