The Running Dream

“I wipe away my tears and nod, because the pain in my leg is nothing compared to the one in my heart.” 

This early quote allows the reader to understand the mental and emotional state that Jessica is enduring immediately after the accident. Despite the doctor’s reassurances, there is nothing that can erase the loss of her sense of self and her ability to run.

“He sounds like he knows what he’s talking about. But really he’s a self-employed handyman. And I’m not something he can fix.” 

Jessica’s father is by nature a man who wants to solve problems; however, both Mr. Carlisle and Jessica come to the realization that this is a scenario where her father is helpless, unable to fix what has happened to his daughter.

“I feel like I’m living on Rigor Mortis Bend.” 

Jessica compares the final turn of the 400-meter dash—a turn that demands the most discipline and drive from a runner—to her first few days of trying to be mobile in a seemingly impossible situation. Faith and heart are required to beat Rigor Mortis Bend, and at this point in the book, Jessica lacks both qualities.