The Push to Perfection

Flashes of memories
Years ago when I was small
Eager to learn all things
Before I knew what it was to fall

I can still remember
Those young years of cheer
Before things became serious
Before my life became a career

My excitement blossomed
After each and every routine
A gift was unleashed
Was a champion before I was a preteen

So young, I misunderstood
What winning truely meant
To be pushed past your breaking
Never thought I dream of relent

My parents quickly thrived
Off of every medal I earned
Practices became intense
A simple day off, I yearned

Waking up for school
Seeing all my friends
Who didn't understand the drive
The passion to transcend

I cannot except defeat
Couldn't handle that look in their eyes
Greatness is never enough
I must continue to rise

I was unaware
There was a life beyond this
Without bruises and weigh ins
To eat everything, such pure bliss

But to lose the fear
And live without this drive
Would make my life meaningless
Where I could never really be alive.