The big boys striding it out on the early climb in Dramman, Norway at last season’s World Cup Finale.“I would rather be ashes than dust,” begins Jack London in a poem of living in the moment, for the moment. For me, this collection of words never loses its rapture. In a season of quadrennial celebration of sport, it’s like seeing a freshly minted Olympic Champion. You have a pretty good idea of what’s next; a look of ecstasy replacing fatigue, a showering from the crowd’s affection. The picture never gets old, just as Mr. London’s words never tire. Enjoy.
I would rather be ashes than dust. I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry-rot. I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet. The function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days trying to prolong them. I shall use my time.
With a suitcase of courage Marit Bjorgen charges the final climb at the 2007 Sapporo World Championships
