Softball was life for me. It was all I could think about. I even dreamed about it, and I still do.

The time came when I had to stop playing, and it hurt. Leaving the sport felt like a terrible breakup. I played my whole life, and to give it all up felt like a waste. Every time I pass a field, I can’t help but think about the endless hours I spent honing my skills and bonding with teammates. Playing a game of softball was the best feeling in the world. The feeling of hitting a ball in its sweet spot, or running and catching a third out is indescribable. Endorphins shot through my brain as I ran the bases. I proudly displayed the endless cuts and bruises I earned from sliding into second, or getting hit with a ball.

These marks have now turned into scars that remind me that hard work is vital for success. I’ve realized that softball has taught me key life lessons I will hold with me forever. The empty feelings I once had have now turned into pride for the experience I had with the sport. I learned how to be apart of a team, how to lead and how to sacrifice yourself for the benefit of a team. I learned patience, good sportsmanship and communication skills.

I will never forget the sport, but to get my mind off of the empty feeling, I looked for other things to become passionate about. I emerged myself in other school activities and focused on my career aspirations. I used these lessons from softball to better myself in other areas.

I’m thankful for the amount of time I did get to play, and will continue to use the lessons I learned in the real world. If I could talk to a high school softball team, I would say to appreciate your time on the field. The years on this team will fly as fast as you can run from home to first. Be thankful for your coaches; they work hard to make your team better. Respect your teammates, no matter their skill level, and don't forget to have a little fun. Sometimes, the bus rides with your friends are the best part. You’ll miss the grass stains and even the dirt. Leaving will be hard, but you know how to get out of tough situations. You’ve been in a pickle or two.

I still miss it. I always will, but I can honestly say that I will always look back at my time playing and smile. It was worth it. Every minute, every hour, every game. There was no better time than a Tuesday night, playing on that field in those stadium lights.