Back in the 80s and early 90s I worked as a lab technician for several (many!) petrochemical companies on the Houston Ship Channel. I was part of the first popularization of the term “You’re Fired!” having held 9 different lab jobs in 11 years. Problems with authority it seems.
One of the tests required putting a small sample of substance into a platinum crucible. Inserting the crucible into an oven hotter than hades itself. Tongs removing after a few minutes, remnant reweighed, calculations ensue.
Platinum, most precious of metals. It cools faster than any other metal. From 2500 degrees F to room temperature in less than thirty seconds. The cup unfazed and unfouled by the brimstone digs.
Point of today’s column, finally and whew!
The Chicago and Twin Cities Marathons are both this weekend. Bree Adams will be repping NRGE in Chicago. I’m sure hopeful a dozen and more of you are also planning on racing where it really matters. At least for those of you that consider yourselves marathoners. These two races are your crucible. Your chance to step into the heat. What is left when finished will define you as a runner.
Giddyup!
Can you handle the heat?
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