My most life-altering experience occurred right under my nose, as I was making my routine dominations on the soccer field that night. I had always been a strong player, relying on my physical attributes to carry me through brutal beatings by our toughest competition. Odd enough, one significant tackle would ensure my mental development, my ability to lead, and my absolute strength.
Now, I had been tackled before; it is actually on rare occasions that I stay on my feet for more than half the game - but this time it was different. My right knee was throbbing with a strange sensation. It didn't actually hurt, but it was a very unusual feeling. I attempted to run, and pathetically failed. So, as expected, I enjoyed the rest of the game from the sidelines, with a smile on my face. For all I knew, a bad bruise was my problem, not torn cartilage. I received my MRI results a couple days later, and realized I would need arthroscopic surgery to repair my torn Meniscus, and several weeks to heal my strained tendon.
As anticipated, I received my surgery and spent two months in recovery. During those two months, my character began to truly develop. I had realized that my passion for the game continued, despite my current predicament. I was devoted to my recovery, and spent a lot of my free time tending to my knee. Although very bent and out of shape when I returned to the game, I strived to become the player I once was. When least expected, I got tackled - again; this time, a torn ACL and another torn Meniscus were going to delay my full recovery.
I spent the next six months recovering from my knee reconstruction surgery. At times, I was a bit discouraged, but I maintained my "mind over matter" mentality and continued to improve. I believe "Vires" applies to me in a mental and physical sense. Knee surgeries may seem strictly physical, but after experiencing two, I grasped the concept that if you can't mentally heal your wounds, your physical strength will never be restored. And it is through strength that I have transformed into a motivated young athlete with desires and dreams. I am now capable to truly call myself a leader; to be a prime example of dedication. I am capable of symbolizing the hope and faith someone needs during a time of crisis, because I overcame an enduring misfortune and have acquired undeniable strength. In spite of my knee surgeries, I remain unshaken, only knowing that they were in fact a test of my capability to succeed - and never falter.
