Dear Sneaker, so ragged and torn,

your stench is so strong, and soles so worn,

Days of yore, so shiny and new,

Did you find me, or did I buy you?

I cared for you with daily prayer;

Each stain you received, I washed with care.

One day, I was jogging along.

The rain had passed with a force so strong.

Puddles abounded every step I took;

In my carelessness, I did not look.

Splash! Into the muddy water You went.

Not by Your will, but by me You were sent.

No longer pure, filth came upon You.

It was my fault, it is true.

After that day, I no longer tried

To clean you daily, and show You with pride.

I discovered that day You could handle my dirt.

Better than my hat, my shorts, or my shirt.

So I ran without fear of paths untrod

You went with grace each step that I plod.

We have been together a decade or two.

You worn, and weathered, Running Shoe.

Now I see how faithful You are,

You endure my journeys, near and far.

When I ignore You—for months at a time,

You are still ready for the hills that I climb.

Thank you, Running Shoe, for the love that you share,

Give me the wisdom to model your care.

With my friends and family, and even my foe

Help me to love them, Shoe, help me to grow–

Into the love that You’ve offered with no recompense.

Oops! I did it again, into a puddle I went!

Amen.