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From the sidelines.


With a tight grip on the bench, I watch

The same bench I melted into this spring,

Now warm beneath my sitting.

It is time. Time to get back in.


Forcing my feet to stand

I am not without thanks.

Exhaustion renewed by summer months spent

Sidelined.

Deep breaths and joy for the hope of a fresh start

But belly breathing not sufficient to settle the nerves

Nerves that make my walking back from the sideline

More like marathon legs being told to follow one after another.


I don't love this game.

This tournament of sorts we've been playing for a few years now

One game after another

Ever changing opponents threatening a loss of some kind.

Heartbreaking loss.

Unfair calls and mid game rule change.

Very few substitutions.


But here we go.

It's game time.

Little faces are watching from the bleachers.

Cheering on their favorites,

The underdogs.

Eyes peeled.

Watching for role models of resilience, strength and character.

Our cheerleaders, part of this team.

Bless their little hearts.

Completely unaware of the giants we are facing.

The critics and the doubters.

The comments read and questions said.

Unashamed---our cheerleaders cheer the loudest.


So elbow locked in elbow,

Strength in that unbroken chain of people.

We walk back into the action.

I sure don't love this game.

But I sure love this team.



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