A little more than a year ago scientific researchers finally calculated just which bird had the longest yearly migration route. Prior to then their instruments were just too cumbersome for some species to wear and thus make their calculations. The winner of this dubious distinction is a very small 4 oz bird called the arctic tern. Each year flocks of them travel back and forth from the Arctic to the Antarctic, a journey of some 44,000 miles. Nature has no doubt given them good cause to do this. Their path way is also not a straight one. They often follow special seasonal shifting wind patterns and stop here and there along the way to feed and prepare for extra long legs of the flight.
The runners who come here to the 3100 each year do not have the singular excuse that human nature can provide, to do what they do. Their journey goes no where but around and around. It is a task in which though they are never hungry they are however almost always continually sore and tired. All their human needs and wants could easily be fulfilled back home in their own countries. There is no incentive to do this other than one that is indescribable and is generated by a deep and inner source.
Atmavir today will finish the race for the 5th year in a row today. “I feel very grateful to be here this year, though it was a very difficult year for everybody. For me it was absolutely the toughest one. For me it was a miracle that I was able to compete the race this year.” He says that on the very hot day 2 weeks ago, that when he left the track that night he went home and had tremendous problems. “I felt it might be over.” He says that it was only through divine grace that he was able to complete the race this year. “I am very grateful.”
Despite being so difficult he says, “I got inner fulfillment. There are more things than miles and laps here.” He feels as though he made real progress towards his goal. He then reads a poem which he says helped him tremendously.
