Advice from a Wizard
I could tell she was on edge. Finals week was weighing heavily on her mind along with the pending state Track and Field Championships this weekend. She would have to miss another two days of school to compete with the state’s best shotput and discus throwers. A standout volleyball and basketball player already, she is also the student body president and a member of the National Honor Society. In my mind, she represents the best of what Susitna Valley High School can be.
“You seem a little stressed today Em.” I opened the field shed door and we both walked into the dimly lit shed. We joined Coach Gunderson who was already inside gathering the high jump equipment. Emily was getting the shot puts and I was looking for some batons to practice relays with.
“Yeah I guess I am. It’s finals.”
I asked her about her finals as I rummaged through the shed. Apparently she had a pretty tough math final coming up along with a debate in history. Those grades were in-the-balance and depended heavily upon the outcome of her final exams. I found the white plastic basket of batons near one of the hurdles.
As I headed out the door I heard Mr. Gunderson’s voice, “Focus on what’s most important Emily...”
I lingered in the doorway long enough to hear the conclusion of what I thought was going to be heartfelt advice . His gentle tone spoke of one who cared. Already resembling Gandalf of the Tolkien tales his wisdom was a matter of course. The wizards staff he was clutching doubled as a high jump standard.
Gundalf the Grey, cutting his own sentimentality short, chose a different angle. “Focus on what’s most important Emily......Shot put.”
Emily smiled.
