“You’re six years into your career. Mine hasn’t even started.” I want Coach Weber to be right about me. I want all the years of hard work to pay off, to be worth the effort. If they’re not, if I waver, I’d lose my entire identity. “You don’t want distractions.” “I don’t want distractions.” There’s nothing else to say after that. I remain in place for a few more minutes, soaking in his presence the same way I’m absorbing the sun’s rays. This is a moment I want to memorize, even if it hurts.
