What is the one thing that you love more than anything in the world? Your friends, your family? Or maybe it's something you do: painting, singing? For me it's flags. The one thing I love the most is flags.
It's been six months since the last time I performed. It was a parade through Magic Kingdom, and I'd be lying if I said that I don't wish to go back everyday.
Like I've said in posts before flags was my life for four years. I gave my all to every team I was a part of. I gave them time, and effort. I gave them my blood, sweat, and tears (literally). Most of all I gave flags my heart.
On Friday the current varsity team at Palatine floored this years competition routine for the first time. When I saw the video I felt intense moods of pride, happiness, nostalgia, and even a little bit of sadness. As I watched it I watched a girl who was convinced the coaches made a mistake when she made varsity her freshman year nail a dance solo that set the pace for a fabulous routine. I saw a girl who when she was on my team for the first time could barely throw a flag above her head do solo work in the middle of the floor. I watched a routine that for the first time in four years I was not a part of and I was reminded why I miss it so much.
I miss the way my hands would shake as we set up but as soon as the music started the tremble went away. I miss how I wouldn't be able to talk after a performance because it felt like my heart was beating in my throat. I miss giving a pep talk before each routine, and always being interrupted by someone. I miss waking up early and blasting my music so I could stay awake. I miss everything about flags.
My career (if you can even call it that) was better than I ever could've hoped. I made a total of three trips to state and each time we came home with a trophy. I had coaches that changed my life. I was given the little sister I never had, but always wanted. We went undefeated my senior year, ending with a state title. Then, just three short months after winning state, I got to perform at The Happiest Place on Earth with 10 of the most beautiful, talented girls I could've ever been blessed with leading.
Even though I had hoped to continue flags during college things just didn't work out that way. One day I will return to the world of competitive flags, whether it be as a coach or a dedicated parent. Whenever that day comes I'll be ready to give my heart all over again.
Flags was the first thing that I was ever really passionate about. I doubt that passion will ever go away. It shaped me into the person I am today, the person who wants to change the world. I can only hope that I helped someone else find what they love most, whether it be flags or something else.
--Michelle
