Indianapolis, IN:
Thank God for almost 90 degree temperatures while standing in the middle of an asphalt track. The heat makes me dizzy and the sunlight makes me squint, leaving no room for any thought other than the moment at hand. Which is good, since my brain is seemingly trying to compete in some sort of race of its own.
I'm watching mental preparations of contestants around me. I think back to the days of my competitive dance, where I would play the same song through my headphones before each performance. It would psyche me up and fill me with confidence. I knew that I would give my all and do the very best I could in the moment that would soon emerge before me.
I'm seeing if that song still holds the same power.