During times such as this, it is so important that we all maintain our mental, emotional and physical well-being. We all need an outlet to help us cope with the changes we are dealing with in the world today.
That outlet could be a hobby, art, music, reading or exercise. Running is a passion of mine and it allows me to escape from the reality around me, for moments of self-importance. Running helps my mind and my body.
From an early age, my brother and I were always outside running around enjoying the freedom of our surroundings. We love our neighborhood and could often be found outdoors playing with friends. It wasn’t until high school that I realized running was a gift I was given. I am using that gift as much as possible to get through this pandemic, which has us all social distancing from our family, friends, teachers, coaches, neighbors and loved ones.
Reflecting on my spring athletic achievements during the past four years, I realize there are larger achievements in life that must be accomplished. Although I was very much looking forward to my senior year on the Bradford High track team, I realize there are far bigger issues in our world to be focusing on. Running is and will continue to be my dream that I pursue at Slippery Rock University, while dreams of so many others are gone because of the COVID-19 virus.
There are many things that seniors will miss like prom, yearbook signing, spring sports, etc., but there are equally many things we will not miss. I will not miss the daily communications informing us of the updates from local and federal governments updating total cases and total deaths resulting from COVID-19. I will not miss staying at home with my brother while my mother goes to work every day, on weekends and many nights to lead her organization while taking care of our elderly population. I will not miss hearing and reading, ‘Stay Home – Stay Safe’ daily to protect our lives and the lives of others around us.
As Bradford High athletes, we might not get to wear red and black again, but we can wear red, white and blue proudly and remember this 2020 year forever and the impact it had on our lives.
I’d like to congratulate my fellow classmates for their hard work and accomplishments. We have an amazing class of almost 200 students that have supported each other with many friendships that began as early as Preschool at The Learning Center.
A special thank you to my coaches for inspiring me to be a fierce competitor, but always reminding me that hard work outweighs talent. I recognize the talents and gifts that we are given are only as good as how you apply them in the classroom, on the field or track and in life. You have instilled in me the true definition of character, “to do what is right regardless of it not always being the easy answer.” Encouraging and inspiring others has helped me to develop, to build confidence and to become a stronger person.
I’m especially humbled by the unconditional love and support from my family and friends. You’ve shown me the importance of setting goals and remaining focused to achieve them. The accolades I’ve received come as a result of encouragement and support from so many. I’m proud of the legacy our senior class will be leaving at Bradford Area High School. We’ve set many athletic records, won many state and national trophies, excelled academically and above all, have been able to stay connected to support each other through these challenging times.
To my classmates, I can say I know we cannot run from COVID-19, but we can run to what the future holds for us. As the united BHS Class of 2020, we are always running together!
