Today was my first cross country meet.
I'm still a little sick, but I decided to go anyway.
I was running my 5k, and I didn't feel great.
I was at the 2-mile mark and I was just beginning to think
"This sucks, I'm so behind, I can't even breathe through my nose, I should just give up..."
It was quiet, Then I hear a voice say,
"C'mon Olivia, you can do this. I mean it! Olivia, look at me, I'm serious, you're doing *great*, just keep going!"
I look over to see a guy I rarely talk to, alone, entusiastically cheering me on.
ANd you know what? I wasn't discouraged anymore.
Silly as it might sound, just to know that someone believed in me that much really helped.
In fact, I sped up enough to pass quite a few people, and earn a ribbon in the end.
Actually, it was my best 5K time ever!
As finish my last mile and am about to turn into the finish, he's standing there again,
"You got this, you're doing amazing, go!"
I finish my race and get my ribbon, but the next thing I do Is go over to my team's tent and give this guy a hug, because he completely deserved it!
today I learned a few things...
• I am a better runner than I believe I am.
• I really love my cross country team.
Like, so much.
• And last but not least...
People can really surprise you.