The article discusses the experiences of the writer, Nancy Datan, who ran the Paavo Nurmi Marathon in 1986 and reflects on her identity as a Jew living in small towns and cities in the Diaspora.

The latest episode of Running the Stage features two Jewish guests: Matthew Futterman, deputy sports editor at the New York Times and marathoner, discusses the changes in professional and recreational running, highlighting its meditative aspects akin to prayer.