The Spectacle Reflection

Back when my youngest daughter was on the high school track team, I sat in stands cheering her team on. I was watching the guys race the 1600 meters. The front two were neck and neck on the last curve. Suddenly one collapsed.

You know those times when you are thankful for a timely article or lecture? This was one of those times. Two days earlier, a cardiologist presented on cardiac events in young athletes, often highlighted by a sudden drop prior to crossing the finish. We reviewed sideline interventions to save a life.

Before I was aware, I had started jogging down the stadium stairs asking if anyone could see him moving as I had to keep my eyes on my feet. Someone said, "No. He's not moving." As I emerged at ground level, spotting no EMTs, that was my cue to dash and call for someone to get help and an AED. I was in a full-on sprint --- until I wasn't. Suddenly, I found myself face down on a slightly raised concrete block 100 yards short of the athlete.

I heard the loud collective gasp from the entire stadium of fans as I face-planted. And then I felt pain in my knees and my palms and spotted my broken sunglasses in front of me.

I heard someone at this point say, "He's up." And then there was clapping. Oh, the irony. I wanted to melt into the concrete pad that had jutted up and tripped me. Once I was sure I could stand, I stood, and once again a few people in the stands clapped. "OMG, make this just be a dream." I tried to act cool and not in pain making my way to the sideline to talk to anyone to try to act 'normal.'

Later when I braved going back to my seat in the stands, there were comments like, "You looked like Superman flying through the air." "Yes, I gave it a 9.9," and "Your foot was so close to clearing the pad." Oh, how I hate the emotion of embarrassment, but the acknowledgment by friends' humorous comments did make me laugh.

We survive uncomfortable emotions. Embarrassment is one of my most dreaded ones. I am getting better at leaning into when it happens and laughing with others who I choose to believe are mostly laughing with me.

Invitation to reflect: Which are your most unpleasant emotions? What helps you allow their presence so they can lighten and pass on? It's true - you've survived 100% of your uncomfortable emotions. 

The good news was the teen had only pulled a muscle, and I treated myself to a brand-new pair of Rx sunglasses.

PS - protip - having a few instruments at home comes in handy for road rash along with other self-imposed injuries. 😉