I have witnessed personal and physical sacrifice in my own home. Alexandra, my sister, is a Level 9 gymnast. She has been training in gymnastics since she was 3 years old. Her story of sacrifice continues today in this difficult sport.
Gymnastics is physically challenging and time consuming. Gymnast must have strength, flexibility, and artistic ability. These skills must be used at the same time when performing a gymnastics routine. Difficulty is measured in Levels from 1 to 10. As you advance to a higher level, the sacrifice becomes greater and the skills more difficult.
My sister’s goal is to become a Level 10 gymnast. Last year, at level 9, she was training for 20 hours per week. Many nights, while her friend’s were having fun, Alexandra was training in the gym. One night, while practicing landings from the high bar, everything changed.
The mat from the high bar had slid from the proper position and moved away from where Alexandra was about to land. As she hit the floor, she felt a pop in her knee and then extreme pain. She had dislocated her kneecap. The idea of being alone in the pit at the gym made Alexandra feel sick. (Core 12) She was then taken to the hospital and had to wear a knee brace for months.
Because my parents thought Alexandra had a severe injury and believed she would never do gymnastics again, they would not let her try practice for 6 months. (Core 11) My sister was very upset at the thought of never having the chance to get to Level 10. The doctor and my parents decided to give the knee time to heal and decide about gymnastics later.
After 6 months, Alexandra was cleared to return to the gym. She trained and sacrificed more than ever. My family was thrilled and surprised when `she took First Place in her first competition since her injury! Alexandra still has not reached Level 10, but she continues sacrifice for her goal. Let us, like Alexandra, resolve not to let our dreams end or our goal slip away because of something out of our control. (Core 10)