AS IF IT WERE MY LAST

by Andres Chavez
(El paso, Texas)

It was during the 2-4A regional track and field championships in San Angelo State University. I had qualified for the 800 meters but with the slowest qualifying time. It was my senior year and I was going through some problems at home that were beyond my control. My mind was so clouded with insecurities and self doubt.

Although I knew that I had talent, all the things that were going on around me were bringing me down. My coach came up to me and asked what was wrong and I decided to open up. Having finally given the opportunity to talk to someone I explained to him that I had been kicked out of the house, lost my car and felt so rejected and down and did not really want to run anymore because I needed to look for money to survive. He spoke from his heart and told me that no matter what this too shall pass and that I gained nothing from letting it get the best of me. He said that if I didn't run this race as it was my last, it would be (it was my senior year) the gun blew and I took off. I do not know if it was the adrenaline but after 50 meters I felt a weight come off my shoulder and felt I had an extra spring in my step, as I released all my worries on the track I felt liberated. I ended up coming in second overall qualifying to the State championships and posting a personal best mark of 1:57 in the 800 meters. That was the perfect run for me because it set me free, changed my mentality and made me realize that life is hard but I'm harder.