For S,
Fair question. What ARE you to do? Your parents ‘demand’ perfect grades. Seven teachers are telling you if you don’t do what they say, you will metaphorically “end up in a van down by the river” (see SNL reference below). Your coaches are pressuring you to be physically fit while you sit in a desk until 3. Mandated by law.
Well S, I know you are scared, your parents are scared, your teachers are scared, and your coaches are scared as well. You are the most important in this scenario, but I wanted to reassure you that the anger from ‘adults’ is really fear. I think you already know this.
You are smart. Understandably frustrated. And I am listening. Your words still echo through my allegorical hallways. I have not given up! Still fighting in my kooky way, and thank you for thanking me for fighting. I could quit too, but then I think of students like you!
Good news S! You did NOT get those perfect grades- not even close. (Thank god). You chose which classes would benefit you and which ones you chose to ‘slack’ in. That shows self-preservation and ingenuity. Good for you.
Hey, I hope you DID end up in a van down by the river! A sweet Springer van is highly coveted.
So, you lost your athletic scholarship(s). So what? As you said, “it was one of the best things”, because you started “playing” sports again. You are so athletically talented but the pressure for college, money and grades took away your spark and love of your games. Plural.
Yes, you could have been a contender. I believe you. Cultural “success” vs. love of the game? And it does seem to be- either or, doesn’t it? Did you keep up with Naomi Osaka? I thought of you! Self-preservation precedes phenomenon. (Ooooh, that was good. I just made that up- with philosophical influences, of course. But S! It’s for you, now). :)
In my Lala land, I imagine you still athletic, but happier. Coaching your own kids with philosophies you learned. I laugh because, NO one on the field or court would any idea about you. I double dare anyone to challenge you. Haha. You have dominating talent, but you would not use it to dominate young talent. Or maybe you would, ha ha ha, what do I know?
Thanks S, for sharing insights into your world. I wished things could have been different for you. Yep, I know you liked “I.School” concepts too. It’s a painfully slow ‘revolution’ but I wanted you to know you are not forgotten. More preparedness for I.School. “For all and for none”. (Remember?) :)
~Viva la Revo-newson S!